Entry Type Is a Practical Decision
When people talk about pallet entry types, they're describing how many sides of the pallet a forklift or pallet jack can access. This seemingly simple specification has major implications for warehouse efficiency, safety, and equipment compatibility. Choosing the wrong entry type for your operation creates handling bottlenecks and safety risks.
Two-Way Entry Pallets
A two-way entry pallet can only be accessed from two opposite sides — typically the ends. The other two sides are blocked by the stringers, which run the full length of the pallet. Forklift tines slide between the top and bottom deck boards, resting on the stringer notches or simply lifting from beneath the top deck.
Advantages:
- Simplest and least expensive construction
- Slightly stronger because full-length stringers provide continuous support
- Adequate for operations where pallets are always accessed from the same direction
Disadvantages:
- Can't be accessed from the sides, limiting placement flexibility
- Pallet jacks can only operate from the two open ends
- Slows down operations when pallets need to be rotated for access
Partial Four-Way Entry (Notched Stringer)
This is the most common pallet type in North America. It's a stringer pallet with notches cut into the stringers on the blocked sides. These notches allow forklift tines to enter from all four sides, but the openings are typically too narrow for pallet jack wheels.
Advantages:
- Four-way forklift access while maintaining stringer pallet economics
- Compatible with the widest range of forklift types
- The standard GMA pallet uses this design
Disadvantages:
- Pallet jacks still can only enter from two sides
- Notching slightly reduces the stringer's structural strength
- In rapid operations, operators may not realize that pallet jack access is restricted on two sides
True Four-Way Entry (Block Pallets)
Block pallets achieve true four-way entry by using blocks at the corners, sides, and center instead of continuous stringers. The spaces between blocks allow both forklifts and pallet jacks to enter from all four sides.
Advantages:
- Full four-way access for all equipment types, including pallet jacks
- Maximum handling flexibility — pallets can be picked up from any direction
- Preferred for retail receiving docks where space is tight and pallets need to be maneuvered in multiple directions
- Standard for pallet pooling programs (CHEP, PECO)
Disadvantages:
- More expensive to manufacture due to the greater number of components
- Heavier than comparable stringer pallets
- More complex to repair — replacing blocks requires more labor than replacing stringers
Matching Entry Type to Your Operation
Use two-way pallets when:
- Your product flow is linear (loading dock to truck, or conveyor to storage)
- Pallets don't need to be repositioned or rotated during handling
- Cost is the primary driver and handling efficiency is secondary
Use partial four-way (notched stringer) pallets when:
- You use forklifts primarily (not pallet jacks)
- You need access from multiple directions but don't need pallet jack compatibility from all sides
- You want the cost advantage of stringer construction with reasonable flexibility
Use true four-way (block) pallets when:
- Your operation relies heavily on pallet jacks
- Dock space is tight and pallets need to be accessed from any direction
- You're shipping to retail environments where receiving crews use pallet jacks
- You're participating in a pooling program that requires block pallets
Equipment Matters
Before specifying pallet entry type, inventory your handling equipment. If your facility uses exclusively forklifts, partial four-way stringer pallets offer the best value. If you use a mix of forklifts and pallet jacks, true four-way block pallets eliminate access issues. If you're feeding automated conveyors or AS/RS systems, check the system specifications — some require specific entry configurations.
Universal Pallet Supply stocks stringer pallets (two-way and notched four-way) and block pallets in all standard sizes. Tell us how your operation handles pallets, and we'll recommend the right entry type for maximum efficiency.