Export Plastic Pallet

Plastic export pallet for one-way shipments

A plastic pallet for export is primarily chosen when goods need to be shipped without the pallet returning to your material handling cycle. Also known as a one-way pallet or shipping pallet, it helps avoid investing in a heavier and more expensive industrial pallet when the application does not require one.

Our Nitro100 model measures 40" x 48" x 5.2" and weighs only 11 lb. Made from 100% recycled plastic, it features a vented deck and a nine-leg base that allows empty pallets to nest inside one another.

This design is primarily intended for shipping, distribution and movement of goods where pallet cost and the space occupied by empty pallets are important considerations. However, it should not be selected solely because it is economical: the weight, value and stability of the goods being transported must also be considered.

Nitro100 export pallet specifications

The listed load capacities are based on an evenly distributed load. They may vary depending on actual weight distribution, conditions of use, temperature and material handling equipment. Dimensions and capacities should be validated according to your application.

Why use a plastic pallet for export?

Reduce the cost of a pallet that will not be returned

In a closed-loop system, a robust pallet can be used repeatedly and its cost is spread over multiple cycles. For a one-way shipment, the situation is different. The pallet becomes part of the packaging and transportation cost of the goods.

A lightweight export pallet can therefore be an attractive option when it has sufficient capacity for the load being transported and when there is no specific need for rack storage or heavy-duty handling that would justify a reinforced model.

Save space with a nestable pallet

The Nitro100 has nine legs and a nestable design. Empty pallets can therefore fit partially inside one another rather than simply being stacked at their full height.

For a company that keeps multiple pallets before shipment or needs to move stacks of empty pallets, this feature can reduce the space required for storage and handling.

Avoid phytosanitary requirements applicable to wood packaging

The international ISPM 15 standard applies to wood packaging materials used in international trade. Depending on the destination, regulated wood pallets and other wood packaging materials may need to be treated and bear the required marking.

A pallet made entirely of plastic is not wood packaging material and is therefore not subject to the ISPM 15 treatment or marking requirements that apply to regulated wood pallets. This can simplify packaging management for certain international shipments.

Important: import requirements may vary depending on the country, the goods being transported and the destination. The exporter remains responsible for verifying the requirements applicable to the shipment.

Export pallet or industrial pallet: which should you choose?

The term “export pallet” primarily describes the context in which the pallet will be used. It does not automatically mean that a lightweight pallet is suitable for every product shipped internationally.

The Nitro100 is particularly well suited when you need a lightweight, nestable and economical 40" x 48" pallet for a one-way shipment. For heavier loads, repeated use, pallet-rack storage or an application requiring greater capacity, an industrial plastic pallet may be a better choice.

Before deciding, we recommend checking:

• The total weight of the loaded goods.
• How the weight is distributed across the pallet.
• The type of forklift or pallet jack being used.
• The value and fragility of the goods being shipped.
• Whether the pallet needs to be stored in pallet racking.
• Whether the pallet may be reused or returned.
• The import requirements of the destination country.

Understanding load capacities before shipping

Floor capacity

Floor capacity refers to the load supported when the pallet rests on a flat surface that adequately supports its base. For the Nitro100, the listed capacity is 3,300 lb when the load is evenly distributed.

Fork capacity

When the pallet is lifted by a forklift or pallet jack, it is no longer supported in the same way. The Nitro100 has a listed fork capacity of 1,200 lb, again with an evenly distributed load.

A floor capacity of 3,300 lb therefore does not mean that the pallet can carry 3,300 lb while supported on forklift forks. When selecting a shipping pallet, the actual handling condition should determine the required capacity.

Frequently asked questions about export pallets

What is a one-way pallet?

A one-way pallet is shipped with the goods without normally being returned to the shipper. Because the pallet becomes part of the shipping cost, a lighter and more economical model is often preferred, provided that its capacity is sufficient for the load.

Can a plastic pallet be used for export?

Yes. A plastic pallet can be used for export when it is suitable for the weight, dimensions and handling conditions of the goods. Pallets described as “export pallets” are generally optimized to reduce weight, cost and occupied space when the pallet is not expected to be returned.

Does a plastic pallet need to be treated under ISPM 15?

ISPM 15 regulates wood packaging materials. A pallet made entirely of plastic therefore does not require the heat treatment or ISPM 15 marking required for regulated wood packaging. However, it remains important to verify the requirements specific to the destination country and the goods being exported.

Can the Nitro100 be used in pallet racking?

This pallet is presented as a lightweight pallet intended primarily for export applications. No rack capacity is listed for this model. It should therefore not be considered a rackable pallet. For pallet-rack applications, see our industrial plastic pallets for racking.

How do I know whether an export pallet is strong enough for my goods?

Compare the actual load weight with the capacity that corresponds to how the pallet will be used, particularly when it is being moved on forks. Weight distribution is also important. A load concentrated over a small area does not place the same demands on a pallet as an evenly distributed load.

Why choose a nestable pallet for shipping?

A nestable pallet primarily reduces the volume it occupies when empty. This makes it easier to store large quantities of pallets before use and can reduce the space required when empty pallets need to be moved or returned.

To compare the different types of pallets, see our plastic pallet buying guide and our plastic pallet FAQ.