Food and beverage operations rely primarily on 48×40 stringer pallets, though combo and block pallets are also used to meet specific retailer or automation requirements. The right pallet depends on balancing cost, compliance and performance.

Food and beverage supply chains move enormous volumes, so consistency in pallet size and quality is critical. The 48×40 stringer pallet — in both new and A/1A recycled versions — dominates the industry. Combo and block pallets are increasingly used when automation systems or large retailers require them. Millwood engineers pallet programs for food and beverage that standardize across facilities, reduce waste and ensure compliance with safety standards while avoiding unnecessary overspending.

Yes. Large retailers and automated systems are accelerating the adoption of block pallets, which are accessible on all four sides and provide stability in high-speed operations.

Costco and other major retailers require block pallets for inbound shipments, and automation in food and beverage warehousing favors block pallet designs. While the transition is not universal, it is growing. Millwood provides cost-effective whitewood alternatives, custom block pallet designs and vendor-managed programs that help food manufacturers and distributors comply without inflating costs. Engineering expertise ensures block pallets are optimized for each supply chain while maintaining efficiency and resilience.

Strategic sourcing streamlines vendor relationships, unifies pallet specifications and embeds recycling and recovery programs, delivering both cost savings and operational stability.

Food and beverage companies often operate across multiple facilities and geographies. Without strategic sourcing, pallet programs can become fragmented, driving up costs and compliance risks. Millwood consolidates suppliers, applies consistent pallet engineering and designs recycling programs that meet sustainability goals. This approach improves resilience against disruption, reduces administrative burden and ensures pallets are standardized for both retailer and automation requirements. The result is a stronger, more cost-effective pallet program that supports growth and reliability.

Slip sheets, stretch film and strapping stabilize unit loads in high-speed environments, working together with pallets to protect food and beverage products in transit.

Food and beverage shipments move through automated systems where stability is essential. Slip sheets reduce friction and make it easier to separate or stage loads. Stretch film and strapping secure cases tightly to pallets, minimizing damage and preventing contamination. Millwood integrates these packaging components into engineered pallet programs, ensuring they complement each other. By viewing pallets, packaging and unit load design as one system, Millwood provides comprehensive protection that supports efficiency, compliance and safety in food supply chains.

Mold prevention is essential for hygiene and regulatory compliance in food supply chains. Heat treatment, kiln-drying and alternative pallets help eliminate risk.

Mold can compromise both food safety and retailer acceptance, making prevention a top priority. Millwood offers multiple solutions, including heat-treated and kiln-dried lumber, mold-resistant coatings and alternatives like plastic or pressed-wood pallets for sensitive environments. These options ensure pallets stay clean and dry throughout storage and transit. By proactively addressing mold, Millwood helps food and beverage companies maintain compliance with strict industry standards, protect brand reputation, and keep shipments moving without costly delays or rejections.