Definition
A continuous, longitudinal solid or notched board that connects and supports the deck boards of a pallet. Stringers are the structural backbone of stringer-style pallets, running the full length of the pallet and providing the framework that holds deck boards in place. Most standard 48x40 pallets use three stringers — two along the outer edges and one down the center.
Related Terms
Pallet
A flat transport structure, typically made of wood, that supports goods in a stable fashion while being lifted by a forklift, pallet jack, or other jacking device. Pallets are the foundation of modern material handling and logistics, enabling efficient storage, stacking, and transportation of goods. The most common pallet size in North America is the 48x40 inch GMA pallet.
Notched Stringer
A pallet stringer that has been cut with notches (typically two per side) to allow partial forklift fork entry from the stringer side of the pallet. Notched stringers convert a two-way entry stringer pallet into a partial four-way entry pallet, increasing handling flexibility. The notches reduce the stringer's structural capacity somewhat, so notched stringer pallets typically have lower load ratings than full stringer pallets of the same dimensions.
Deck Board
The flat boards that form the top and bottom surfaces of a pallet. Top deck boards provide the platform on which goods are placed, while bottom deck boards (also called bottom boards) provide stability and allow the pallet to be stored on flat surfaces. Deck board thickness, width, and spacing directly affect a pallet's load capacity and suitability for different applications.
Block Pallet
A pallet constructed using blocks of solid wood or composite material between the top and bottom deck boards, typically with nine blocks arranged in a 3x3 pattern. Block pallets offer true four-way entry, allowing forklifts and pallet jacks to access the pallet from all four sides. They are generally stronger and more durable than stringer pallets, making them common in pooling programs and heavy-duty applications.
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