Field guide / reviewed November 2, 2026
Inspect the lot, not just the top pallet
A good photograph can hide a mixed stack. Inspect representative pieces and separate visibly different conditions before offering or collecting pallets.
Look at each bearing surface
Record missing or split boards, loose components, protruding fasteners and damage to the blocks or stringers. Photograph defects without handling unsafe pieces. A visual check is not a load-capacity test or a professional repair assessment.
Keep unknown materials out of a reuse promise
Do not describe a pallet as suitable for food, furniture, children or animals merely because it looks clean. If it has an unexplained stain, smell or unknown previous cargo, keep it separate and seek appropriate advice.
Create separate groups
Separate apparently reusable pieces, pieces needing professional assessment, and material proposed for recycling. Let the recipient see photographs and the limitations of your inspection before agreeing to the handoff.
Keep these details together
- Deck and supports photographed
- Visible defects recorded
- Unknown contamination isolated
- Condition groups counted separately
Technical reference: FedEx: freight packing and packaging guidelines. This guide is general planning information; confirm requirements with the owner, receiver and relevant specialist.