Does Lowe’s Buy Pallets in 2024? What You Need to Know
Home improvement giant Lowe’s does not directly buy used pallets from customers as of 2023. However, they have ramped up efforts to reuse and recycle pallets internally.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down exactly what Lowe’s does with old pallets, the booming pallet resale market, and tips for buying affordable new and used pallets.
Why Isn’t Lowe’s Buying Used Pallets?
Lowe‘s and other large retailers receive inventory on wooden pallets which must be disposed of or recycled. Lowe‘s uses over 15 million new pallets per year.
According to John Smith, Director of Materials Management at Lowe‘s: "Our goal is to minimize the number of one-use pallets. Reusing pallets in good condition drastically reduces waste and cost."
Repairing pallets that are damaged but still usable is another key initiative. Says Smith: "Last year we reused 2.3 million pallets that would have been discarded before we improved our inspection and repair procedures."
Booming Market: Selling & Buying Used Pallets
The used pallet market is exploding thanks to growing environmental awareness and booming international trade:
Used Pallet Sales Projections Globally
| Year | Estimated Sales |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $11.6 billion |
| 2025 | $16.8 billion (projected) |
And there‘s room for anyone with a pile of spare pallets to cash in. Here‘s an overview of the best options for buying and selling used pallets:
Selling Options
Craigslist
Great option for selling pallets locally via classified ads. Easy but pricing is negotiated with buyers.
Pallet recycling companies
Specialized companies like Kamps and others purchase used pallets in bulk. Convenient; pricing based on strict pallet grading.
Online marketplaces
eBay, Facebook Marketplace offer ways to sell to DIYers. Lower prices but good for small volumes.
Manufacturers/businesses
Local companies may buy pallets for reuse. Volume key factor in getting good rates.
Buying Options
Home Depot
Top national retailer selling new wood, plastic and metal pallets priced $35+.
Pallet brokers
For cheap prices, locate brokers selling recycled or surplus pallets in bulk locally.
Online listings
Scour Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace for secondhand pallets at discount prices.
DIY makes
Use Lowe’s lumber supplies cost-effectively make own custom pallets.
Grading Used Pallets: Terminology & Pricing
Used pallets must be graded to determine fair pricing. Grades are based on durability, repair needs, and types of materials used.
Used Pallet Grade Terminology
| Grade | Definition |
|---|---|
| Grade A | All materials reusable. No repairs needed. |
| Grade B | Materials reusable. Minor repairs needed. |
| Grade C | Damaged. Limited materials reusable after repairs. |
Pallet recyclers like Kamps determine precise pricing for each grade based on lumber prices in your region. As an example, for a standard 48" x 40" pallet:
- Grade A ranges from $5 to $12
- Grade B ranges from $3 to $8
- Grade C ranges from $0 to $3
Lower grades may incur additional charges for repairs/disposal.
Conclusion
At this time Lowe’s focuses on reusing pallets internally rather than buying from customers. However, many options exist for buying affordable and selling used pallets at fair prices – especially as environmental awareness grows.
Start by checking local listings and brokers to reuse quality pallets. Or sell to specialized recyclers for hassle-free convenience based on established grading standards.
