The North America Pallet market is anticipated to grow at more than 4.64% CAGR from 2026 to 2031.

  • Historical Period: 2020-2024
  • Base Year: 2025
  • Forecast Period: 2026-2031
  • CAGR (2026-2031): 4.64
  • Largest Market: United States
  • Fastest Market: Canada
  • Format: PDF & Excel
Featured Companies
  • 1 . DS Smith
  • 2 . Smurfit Kappa group
  • 3 . Conitex Sonoco
  • 4 . Cabka Group GmbH
  • 5 . Menasha Corporation
  • 6 . UFP Industries, Inc
  • More...

Market Analysis

The North American pallet market refers to the market for pallets in the geographical region of North America, which includes the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Pallets are essential tools for storage, handling, and transportation of goods and are used in a wide range of industries, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, retail, logistics, and more. The North American pallet market is highly competitive, with many large and small players operating in the market. Some of the key players in the market include Brambles Limited, CHEP USA, Millwood Inc., PECO Pallet Inc., and Rehrig Pacific Company. The most common type of pallet used in North America is the 48x40-inch wooden pallet, also known as the standard grocery manufacturers' pallet GMA pallet. These pallets are widely used in the region for a variety of industries, including retail, food and beverage, and agriculture. The GMA pallet has become the standard in North America due to several factors, including its availability, durability, and compatibility with material handling equipment. These pallets are typically made of hardwood, such as oak or maple, and are designed to hold up to heavy loads and repeated use. According to the research report, " North America Pallet Market Research Report, 2031," published by Actual Market Research, the North America Pallet market is anticipated to grow at more than 4.64% CAGR from 2026 to 2031. Increasing demand for medicines and health supplements has given North America the top spot in the industry. Due to their well-established food and beverage and construction industries, the United States and Canada account for the majority of the demand in the area.

The pharmaceutical, e-commerce, and manufacturing industries are expanding in the Americas, adding to the demand for storage and logistics operations. Vendors in the transportation and warehousing industries are opting for sustainable and economic methods, such as increased usage of corrugated pallets, to increase the efficiency of these operations. Factors such as the economic recovery, population growth, and increase in the disposable income levels of consumers in the Americas contribute to the growth of the cardboard pallet market in this region. The pallet market in North America is being driven by the significant presence of leading e-commerce websites like Amazon. Investments by private equity owners to sustain the pallet market provided further impetus to the market's growth, especially during the pandemic. The pallet industry in North America also witnessed growth within the pharmaceutical sector, owing to the robust presence of a number of pharmaceutical players in the region. .

What's Inside a Actual Market Research`s industry report?

Asia-Pacific dominates the market and is the largest and fastest-growing market in the animal growth promoters industry globally

Download Sample
Report Sample Preview

Market Dynamic

Market Drivers

• Rise of e-commerce and storage facilities: The swift growth of online shopping in North America has greatly boosted the need for pallets in distribution and fulfillment hubs. Online sellers need pallets for effective storage, sorting, and transporting products. The increase in same-day and next-day delivery services has heightened warehouse activity, leading to a faster pallet turnover. Major fulfillment centers mainly use standard pallets to enhance handling efficiency. The expansion of third-party logistics 3PL companies contributes significantly to the growing need for pallets. With more consumers choosing online shopping, there is a sustained demand for pallets. This driver continues to transform the logistics framework throughout the area.

• Growth of industry and retail markets: The rise in manufacturing sectors like automotive, electronics, and food and drink create a greater need for pallets. The expansion of the retail industry, including large retail chains and grocery stores, necessitates pallets for transporting goods in large quantities. Pallets are essential for managing inventory and restocking shelves. Increased domestic manufacturing also drives more frequent pallet circulation. Manufacturing plants use pallets to handle raw materials and to store finished products. The rise in private-label goods raises further need. These industries provide consistent and ongoing demand for pallets. Market Challenges

• Unstable timber costs: Variations in timber prices have a substantial effect on the costs of making pallets in North America. Wood shortages due to natural disasters, trade limitations, or sudden increases in demand raise the costs of raw materials. Higher timber prices impact profit margins for pallet manufacturers. Smaller companies, in particular, are more susceptible to price fluctuations. Unpredictable pricing complicates long-term planning. Increased expenses may be transferred to consumers, impacting market position. This issue drives the search for alternative material options.

• Inconsistent pallet standardization: The absence of consistent pallet sizes across various industries leads to inefficiencies in logistics processes. Non-standard pallets result in compatibility problems with forklifts and automated systems. Inadequate use of transportation space arises from varying pallet sizes. This results in longer handling times and increased operational expenses. Exchanging pallets between different industries becomes more complicated. Warehouses need a variety of pallet types, which raises inventory costs. Standardization continues to be a significant challenge in the area. Market Trends

• Increasing use of automation-friendly pallets: North American warehouses are progressively utilizing pallets that are compatible with automation. These pallets are engineered to integrate seamlessly with robotic systems and automated storage methods. Consistent sizes and durability improve handling precision. Pallets suited for automation lessen the demand for manual labor. They also enhance warehouse productivity and efficiency. This trend is influenced by staff shortages and rising labor costs. Intelligent logistics facilities are promoting this transition.

• Emphasis on eco-friendly and recyclable pallets: Environmental sustainability has emerged as a prominent theme in the North American pallet market. Companies are turning to recycled wood and reusable pallet designs. Government regulations and corporate environmental goals foster green practices. Pallet pooling and repair initiatives contribute to waste reduction. Pallets made of plastic and composites are becoming more favored for reuse. Customers are progressively choosing suppliers that offer eco-conscious logistics options. Sustainability is now a key factor in competitive advantage.
Make this report your own

We're excited to discuss your needs and our solutions. Let's schedule a call.

Manmayi Raval

Analyst

Segmentation

By Material Type Wood
Plastic
Metal
Corrugated
Others
By End User Food and Beverages
Chemicals
Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare
Transportation & Warehousing
Automotive
Consumer goods and Retail
Agriculture
Other End Use(Construction & Building Materials, Electronics & Electrical Equipment and Other)
By Structural Design Type Block
Stringer
Others
By Application Type Rental
Non-rental
By Type Rackable Pallets
Nestable Pallets
Stackable Pallets
Others (Display Pallet, Collapsible Pallets)
North America North America
Europe
Asia-Pacific
South America
MEA



Wood is the leading material type in North America due to its budget-friendly nature, widespread accessibility, ease of repair, and suitability for high-volume industrial and logistics needs.

Wood is the most prevalent material in the pallet market in North America mainly because it is economical and easily obtained throughout the area. The plentiful forest resources in the United States and Canada guarantee a consistent supply of timber at relatively low costs in comparison to other materials. This is why wooden pallets are often the go-to option for sectors that depend on large quantities, such as manufacturing, retail, food and beverage, and warehousing. Furthermore, wooden pallets are simple to create, modify, mend, and recycle, which effectively reduces long-term costs for users. , the extensive networks for pallet repair and reuse in North America contribute to the ongoing circulation of wooden pallets, further reinforcing their prevalence. Many businesses also prefer wood since damaged pallets can be swiftly restored and reused, leading to better cost management. Wooden pallets work well with most handling equipment and can easily be adjusted for various load capacities. Compliance with regulations, including ISPM-15 standards for exports, also facilitates their widespread application. Although there are concerns about sustainability, initiatives like recycled wood pallets and pallet pooling programs help lessen environmental harm. Compared to plastic pallets, wooden pallets require a smaller initial investment, which is vital for small and medium enterprises. Consequently, wood continues to be the most effective and affordable choice for diverse, high-volume logistics operations in North America, sustaining its status as the leading material type in the market.

The Consumer Goods and Retail sector is expanding rapidly in the North American pallet market due to the significant rise in online shopping and omnichannel retailing, which has greatly heightened the need for effective logistics and pallet utilization throughout distribution channels.

In North America, the Consumer Goods and Retail sector has become the most rapidly advancing area within the pallet market primarily because of swift transformations in consumer purchasing habits, retailer order fulfillment processes, and the structure of supply chains that are geared to manage large volumes of orders. In recent years, shopping online has transitioned from being a mere convenience to a predominant consumer practice, prompting retailers to increase their warehouse space, adopt automated handling technologies, and improve their throughput. Pallets are essential for these logistical processes they facilitate the effective storage, transportation, and management of packaged items within warehouses and transport trucks. Consumer goods, which range from packaged home products to personal hygiene items, pass through various distribution stages such as regional fulfillment centers, last-mile logistics points, and retail outlets. This intricate system demands pallets that are capable of supporting rapid turnover, are durable, and can work seamlessly with handling equipment. Furthermore, North American retailers are implementing sustainability measures and reusable pallet initiatives to minimize waste and costs, which in turn improves the renewal and efficiency of pallet inventories. Retailers are also employing just-in-time inventory systems and cross-docking methods, both of which lead to more frequent and quicker handling of pallets. These changes drive an increase in pallet usage and innovation in pallet products, illustrating why the Consumer Goods and Retail segment is at the forefront of growth in this region’s pallet industry.

Block pallets represent the most significant and rapidly expanding design type in North America because of their accessibility from all sides, high weight capacity, and suitability for automated and large-scale warehouse functions.

In the North American market, block pallets are the leading type due to their compatibility with the extensive and efficiency-oriented logistics network. A key benefit of block pallets is their design that permits entry from all four sides, enabling forklifts and pallet jacks to access them easily. This design feature greatly enhances handling speed and operational adaptability in busy warehouses and distribution hubs. As online shopping experiences tremendous growth in both the United States and Canada, the demand for quick and efficient goods movement pushes warehouses to prefer block pallets. These pallets provide a greater load capacity and superior weight distribution compared to stringer pallets, making them ideal for shipments involving heavy industrial products, automotive parts, and consumer merchandise. Furthermore, the rise of automation technologies, such as conveyor belts and robotic systems for pallet management, contributes to the increasing popularity of block pallets, as their uniform design performs optimally in automated settings. Pallet pooling providers in North America prefer block pallets for their strength, longevity, and ease of maintenance. Supply chain standardization also tends to favor block pallets, as these reduce the likelihood of handling mistakes and enhance transportation efficiency. With ongoing investments in advanced logistics technologies and automation, block pallets are firmly positioned for growth, establishing them as both the leading and fastest-developing design type in North America.

Non-rental pallets lead the North American pallet market because many businesses choose to purchase and possess pallets for long-term usage in their established logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing processes, avoiding ongoing rental fees.

In the North American pallet sector, the non-rental category stands as the largest by application type mainly because companies across various essential industries such as manufacturing, retail, distribution, and logistics typically opt to buy pallets instead of utilizing rental or pooling options. Non-rental pallets are acquired and owned by the end users, which allows businesses to manage their pallet inventory independently, eliminating the need for contracts, continuous rental payments, or reliance on outside service providers. This model of ownership fits seamlessly within many North American supply chains, which are noted for their developed logistics systems, efficient operations, and considerable warehouse automation emphasizing internal management of assets. In industries where pallet turnover is regular and asset recovery is possible, owning pallets becomes more economical over longer durations, especially when businesses have established reverse logistics to return and reuse pallets. Buying pallets also removes ongoing rental expenses and provides companies the freedom to tailor pallets to their specific operational demands, such as unique dimensions, enhanced load capacities, or compatibility with automated material handling systems. Furthermore, the well-established industrial framework and broad warehousing network in the United States and Canada support traditional ownership models, significantly boosting the volume of non-rental pallet transactions. Consequently, despite a rising interest in shared-use frameworks, the non-rental segment maintains the largest portion of pallet consumption and revenue in the North American market.

Rackable pallets are the leading type in North America’s pallet market because they can hold heavy weights, optimize vertical space in warehouses, and work well with compact racking systems.

In the North American market, rackable pallets are the predominant type because the region heavily depends on large warehousing and high-density storage solutions. Many distribution centers and production plants in the United States and Canada utilize pallet racking systems to enhance vertical space usage and improve storage efficiency. These pallets are crafted to securely hold substantial loads when placed directly on rack beams without extra decking, making them suitable for such settings. Sectors like food and beverage, automotive, chemicals, and retail rely on rackable pallets to guarantee load safety and stability during storage. The increasing growth of e-commerce has further boosted the need for expansive fulfillment centers that demand dependable rack-friendly pallets. Moreover, North America adheres to rigorous safety regulations in warehouses, and rackable pallets assist in minimizing the odds of pallet failures or product damages when stored at elevation. Both plastic and reinforced wood rackable pallets are gaining preference thanks to their durability and reliable performance. Companies specializing in pallet pooling also opt for rackable pallets due to their ability to endure repeated use in stored settings. Even though rackable pallets may come with a higher initial investment, their capacity to avert accidents, safeguard products, and enhance warehouse function makes the cost worthwhile. As warehouses continue to expand in scale and complexity, rackable pallets continue to be the leading pallet type in the North American pallet market.

Market Regional Insights


The United States holds the top position in the North America pallet market due to its extensive and well-developed industrial, retail, and logistics systems, which create a significant demand for palletized operations across various supply chains.

The U.S. dominance in the North America pallet market arises from its vast and advanced industrial sector, efficient logistics systems, and retail distribution frameworks. It boasts one of the globe’s largest manufacturing sectors, producing a wide range of products like auto components, industrial machines, electronic devices, and food items. These sectors depend heavily on pallets to effectively store, move, and ship materials through warehouses, distribution points, transport hubs, and stores, establishing pallets as a crucial element in operational processes. Alongside manufacturing needs, the remarkable rise of online shopping and integrated retailing in the U.S. has significantly boosted the requirement for pallet solutions that facilitate speedy order processing and timely delivery. Major retailers and third-party logistics firms manage extensive automated fulfillment centers where pallets are vital for sorting items, maximizing storage areas, and coordinating with robotic technologies. This tech-driven setting enhances both the use and innovation of pallets, including the development of smart pallets that use RFID and IoT technology to enhance inventory tracking and efficiency. The U.S. also enjoys a highly sophisticated transportation system comprising highways, railways, and ports that aids in smooth inland transport and trade. Pallets are deeply embedded in this framework, allowing for uniform handling and minimizing damage or loss during shipping. There is a strong trend toward pallet sharing and recycling initiatives that boost cost-effectiveness and sustainability within supply chains. A mix of strong industrial production, vast logistics systems, advanced warehouse automation, and extensive retail engagement reinforces the U.S.'s status as the leading market in North America for pallets, influencing both volume and technology.

Companies Mentioned

  • 1 . DS Smith
  • 2 . Smurfit Kappa group
  • 3 . Conitex Sonoco
  • 4 . Cabka Group GmbH
  • 5 . Menasha Corporation
  • 6 . UFP Industries, Inc
  • 7 . Schoeller Allibert Services B.V.
  • 8 . Brambles Limited
  • 9 . Millwood, Inc.
  • 10 . KraftPal Technologies Ltd.
  • 11 . Myers Industries, Inc.
  • 12 . Tranpak Deliver Innovation
Company mentioned

Table of Contents

  • Table 1: Influencing Factors for Pallet Market, 2025
  • Table 2: Top 10 Counties Economic Snapshot 2024
  • Table 3: Economic Snapshot of Other Prominent Countries 2022
  • Table 4: Average Exchange Rates for Converting Foreign Currencies into U.S. Dollars
  • Table 5: North America Pallet Market Size and Forecast, By Material Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 6: North America Pallet Market Size and Forecast, By End User (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 7: North America Pallet Market Size and Forecast, By Structural Design Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 8: North America Pallet Market Size and Forecast, By Application Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 9: North America Pallet Market Size and Forecast, By Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 10: United States Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Material Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 11: United States Pallet Market Size and Forecast By End User (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 12: United States Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Structural Design Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 13: United States Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Application Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 14: United States Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 15: Canada Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Material Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 16: Canada Pallet Market Size and Forecast By End User (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 17: Canada Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Structural Design Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 18: Canada Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Application Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 19: Canada Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 20: Mexico Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Material Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 21: Mexico Pallet Market Size and Forecast By End User (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 22: Mexico Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Structural Design Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 23: Mexico Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Application Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 24: Mexico Pallet Market Size and Forecast By Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
  • Table 25: Competitive Dashboard of top 5 players, 2025

  • Figure 1: North America Pallet Market Size By Value (2020, 2025 & 2031F) (in USD Billion)
  • Figure 2: North America Pallet Market Share By Country (2025)
  • Figure 3: US Pallet Market Size By Value (2020, 2025 & 2031F) (in USD Billion)
  • Figure 4: Canada Pallet Market Size By Value (2020, 2025 & 2031F) (in USD Billion)
  • Figure 5: Mexico Pallet Market Size By Value (2020, 2025 & 2031F) (in USD Billion)
  • Figure 6: Porter's Five Forces of Global Pallet Market

Market Research FAQs

Research and Development (R&D) activities to integrate technological features like RFID in multi-use pallets are anticipated to drive the market growth in North America.
On a regional level, the market has been classified into United States and Canada, where United States currently dominates the North America pallet market.
48" x 40" is the most popular pallet size in the US.
A pallet (also called a skid) is a flat transport structure, which supports goods in a stable fashion while being lifted by a forklift, a pallet jack, a front loader, a jacking device, or an erect crane. A pallet is the structural foundation of a unit load, which allows handling and storage efficiencies.
A pallet is a flat, (usually wooden) structure that is used for handling transport, storing goods or transporting freight. Click here for more details about types of pallets, materials, and measurements. The pallet is one of the most common structures for loading goods in the transport and logistics sectorw.
The primary drivers for growth include the rise of e-commerce, expansion of large warehouses, and increased manufacturing operations.
Wooden pallets are popular due to their affordability, easy availability, and simplicity in repair. The strong timber resources and existing pallet recycling systems further strengthen their prevalence in the region.
Automation creates a need for standardized, durable pallets that can work with robotic systems and racking solutions.
Major challenges consist of changing lumber prices, the absence of pallet standardization, and increasing labor costs.

Why Actual Market Research?

  • Our seasoned industry experts bring diverse sector experience, tailoring methodologies to your unique challenges.
  • Leveraging advanced technology and time-tested methods ensures accurate and forward-thinking insights.
  • Operating globally with a local touch, our research spans borders for a comprehensive view of international markets.
  • Timely and actionable insights empower swift, informed decision-making in dynamic market landscapes.
  • We foster strong client relationships based on trust, transparency, and collaboration.
  • Our dedicated team adapts and evolves strategies to meet your evolving needs.
  • Upholding the highest standards of ethics and data security, we ensure confidentiality and integrity throughout the research process.

How client has rates us?

Requirement Gathering & Methodology 92%
Data Collection Techniques 97%
Our Research Team & Data Sourcing 93%
Data Science & Analytical Tools 81%
Data Visualization & Presentation Skills 86%
Project/ Report Delivery & After Sales Services 88%

Related Tags