15 Places To Find Free Pallets Near You
Small garden shops are also a good place to look for free wood pallets. Many times, these shops receive shipments of plants and flowers on wood pallets. Once they unload the merchandise, they often discard the pallets. However, if you ask nicely, they may be willing to give you the pallets instead.
Where to Get Free Pallets – Free Pallets Near Me
Wood pallets are a great way to get free wood for your DIY or woodworking projects. Finding free pallets to use for your next crafting project can be a challenge, but it’s definitely worth the effort. Pallets are versatile and easy to work with, so you can create a wide variety of pallet furniture projects using them, pallet patio furniture, pallet sofa, pallet bed, benches and more. Here are some tips on where to find free pallets and how to get them ready for your next project.
Where to Get Free Pallets
Wood pallets are an essential part of the shipping and construction industries, but they can also be repurposed for a variety of DIY projects. If you’re looking for free pallets, there are a few places you can check.
- Local businesses that receive shipments on wood pallets may be willing to give them away for free.
- You can also search online classifieds or freecycling groups for people who are looking to get rid of pallets.
- Finally, big box stores may have a supply of free pallets in the back that they’re willing to let go of. With a little creativity, you can find all sorts of uses for free pallets.
How to Find Free Pallets Near Me
Wood pallets are often used by businesses to store and transport goods. They are typically made of wood but can also be made of plastic or metal. Pallets can be reused or recycled, making them a great option for those looking for free or cheap wood.
Looking for free pallets near you? Check out these tips on where to find wood pallets for your next DIY or woodworking project.
First, try your local hardware store or lumberyard. They may have pallets that they are willing to give away or sell at a reduced price. You can also check with businesses in your area that receive shipments on pallets. They may be willing to give them away rather than pay to have them removed.
Another option is to search online classifieds sites or online marketplaces. You may be able to find someone who is looking to get rid of pallets and is willing to ship them to you for free or at a reduced price.
Finally, you can check with your local waste management company. They may have pallets they are willing to give away or sell at a reduced price.
If you’re not sure where to start, you can also search for “free pallets near me” online. This will give you a list of businesses in your area that may have free pallets available.
With a little bit of effort, you should be able to find free pallets near you for your next woodworking project.
See These Locations for Free Pallets
Here are some locations where you can find them. Keep in mind that availability may vary depending on the location, so call ahead before you go.
Hardware stores
When it comes to finding free wood pallets, hardware stores are a great place to start. Many hardware stores receive shipments on wood pallets and, once they unload the merchandise, they simply discard the pallets. However, if you ask nicely, many times a store manager will be happy to give you the pallets for free.
Construction sites and builders
Construction sites are another great place to look for free wood pallets. Oftentimes, construction workers will use wood pallets to store and transport materials around the job site. Once they’re finished with the pallets, they simply throw them away. However, if you ask politely, they may be willing to give them to you instead.
Small garden shops
Small garden shops are also a good place to look for free wood pallets. Many times, these shops receive shipments of plants and flowers on wood pallets. Once they unload the merchandise, they often discard the pallets. However, if you ask nicely, they may be willing to give you the pallets instead.
Furniture stores
Furniture stores are another great place to look for free wood pallets. Many times, furniture stores receive shipments of new furniture on wood pallets. Once they unload the merchandise, they simply discard the pallets. However, if you ask nicely, they may be willing to give you the pallets instead.
Equipment stores
Equipment stores are also a good place to look for free wood pallets. Many times, these stores receive shipments of new equipment on wood pallets. Once they unload the merchandise, They just throw away the pallets when they’re finished.. However, if you ask nicely, they may be willing to give you the pallets instead.
Newspaper companies
Newspaper companies are another great place to look for free wood pallets. Many times, these companies receive shipments of new newspapers on wood pallets. Once they unload the merchandise, they simply discard the pallets. However, if you ask nicely, they may be willing to give you the pallets instead.
Pet stores
Pet stores are also a good place to look for free wood pallets. These stores often receive shipments of new pet food and supplies on wood pallets. After they unload the merchandise, they simply discard the pallets. However, if you ask nicely, they may be willing to give you the pallets instead.
Grocery stores
Grocery stores are also a good place to look for free wood pallets. These stores often receive shipments of new food and supplies on wood pallets. Once they unload the merchandise, they simply discard the pallets. However, if you ask nicely, they may be willing to give you the pallets instead.
Free Pallets at Home Depot or at Lowes
Free pallets at home depot or lowes are a great way to save money on your next home improvement project. Pallets are a common wood type used to create shipping containers. When a business receives a shipment of goods, they often have to dispose of the empty pallets. Home Depot and Lowes are one of the many businesses that give away their unwanted pallets for free. You can find free pallets near me by searching online or asking at your local Home Depot store. Once you have collected a few free pallets, you can use them to build anything from furniture to flower beds. With a little creativity, free pallets can help you save money and add unique style to your home.
Make Yourself a Pickup Service
The best way to find free pallets is to become your own pickup service. Start by scouting local businesses that use wood pallets in their operations. Ask if you can take a few off their hands – most businesses will be happy to get rid of them. Once you have a few pallets, you can use them for your woodworking projects or sell them to earn a little extra cash.
Seek Out the Distribution Center
Manufacturing Facility: The first place to start your search for free pallets is the distribution center or manufacturing facility where they are used. These businesses receive shipments of products on wood pallets and then ship them out again. They often have more pallets than they need and are happy to give them away for free.
Ask at Local Businesses: If you can’t find a distribution center or manufacturing facility that uses wood pallets, your next best bet is to ask at local businesses. Businesses such as hardware stores, home improvement stores, and even some grocery stores receive shipments on wood pallets. They may be willing to give you their unwanted pallets or sell them to you at a low cost.
Check Online
There are a few online resources that can help you find free wood pallets.
Freecycle
One is Freecycle, an online community where people give away unwanted items for free.
Craigslist
Another is Craigslist, where wood pallets are often given away free or sold for a low cost.
Facebook groups and pages
One great way to find free wood pallets is to search for Facebook groups and pages dedicated to giving away or selling them. Chances are, there are a few in your area. Simply type in “free wood pallets” or “wood pallets for sale” into the search bar on Facebook and see what comes up. Once you find a few groups or pages, join them and start browsing through the posts.
You may also want to try posting in these groups or pages to see if anyone has any pallets they’re looking to get rid of. Be sure to include your location in your post so that people can easily see if you’re close by.
Inspect the Pallets Wood Before Picking Up
Before you pick up wood pallets for free, it’s important to inspect them first. Check for any nails or splinters that may be sticking out, and make sure the wood is sturdy and not too warped. If you’re going to be using the wood for a project that will involve painting or staining, look for pallets that are made from pine or cedar, as these woods take paint and stain well. Avoid wood pallets that are made from treated wood, as the chemicals in the wood can be harmful.
Once you’ve found some wood pallets that you want to use,, you’ll need to prepare them for your project. Here are a few tips:
1. Inspect the pallets for nails or other sharp objects that could harm you while you’re working. Remove any nails or splinters with a hammer or pry bar.
2. If the wood is dirty or weathered, you may want to sand it down or power wash it before using it.
3. Pallets can be tricky to disassemble, so it’s always a good idea to have a few tools on hand, like a saw, screwdriver, and hammer.
With these tips, you should have no trouble finding free wood pallets for your next project. Just be sure to inspect them carefully before using them to avoid any accidents.
Review Markings and Stamps on Wood Pallets
When looking for wood pallets, you’ll want to pay attention to their markings and stamps. These can give you valuable information about the quality of the wood and where it came from. If you see a stamp that says “HT,” this means the pallet was heat-treated and is safe to use. If you see a stamp that says “MB,” this means the pallet was chemically treated and is not safe to use. You’ll also want to avoid pallets that have been stained or painted, as these may contain harmful chemicals.
Conclusion:
If you are in need of some free pallets, we have you covered. Our list of resources will help you find the nearest location to get free wooden pallets. Be sure to check back often as our list is constantly being updated. Have any other tips for sourcing free pallets? Let us know in the comments below!
15 Places To Find Free Pallets Near You
Though many may see pallets as simply a necessary tool to help with transporting particular items, akin to cardboard boxes or other packaging, crafters or DIY enthusiasts view the simple wooden item through an entirely different lens. To them, pallets can be the starting point of a wide variety of projects, providing budget-friendly raw materials if you’re ambitious, or even a base to work from, if you’re still not fully comfortable with full woodworking. Either way, there’s a good chance you’ve added a few ideas to your Pinterest board that involve pallets — as Simple Most demonstrates, whatever area of your home you’re looking to revamp, there’s likely a pallet project out there to inspire you.
So, where exactly can you find them for free? After all, many businesses are likely just tossing them out when they’re done or discarding them in some way — so why not put them to good use by giving them to someone who will offer them a new purpose? With all the creative ideas percolating in your head, here are 15 places you can start searching for free pallets to get your projects started.
1. Bars
As Packaging Revolution suggests, bars can be a great spot to find free pallets — after all, they get shipments of tons of heavy bottles and cans that need to be transported somehow. While you definitely don’t want to swing by in the middle of an evening rush, consider stopping by during the slower afternoon hours to ask if there are any pallets available. Plus, if you’re looking to create a home bar out of pallets, there’s just something poetic about obtaining them from your local watering hole.
2. Pet supply stores
Pet stores or pet supply stores get constant shipments of bags upon bags of heavy food for the various creatures they serve, and these often come on wood pallets, as 1001 Pallets explains. As a bonus, if you have pets and there’s a particular spot you go to for their food, you might even have a relationship established that could make the ask easier — after all, if the owner sees you coming in regularly to support their business, they might be more inclined to set aside a few pallets for you from their next shipment.
3. Furniture stores
In your search for free pallets, furniture stores should definitely be a spot to check, as Packaging Revolution suggests. Many get those large pieces shipped to the store on pallets and will have a surplus that they may be willing to part with, if they don’t already have a recycling or disposal system in place. An added bonus — furniture isn’t the type of item that might drip or soil the pallets in any way, so this could be a good source for projects where you want the wood to shine in its natural state.
4. Distribution centers
While many stores and businesses can be a good source for free pallets, you may also want to consider going right to the source. As The Balance Small Business reports, sometimes distribution centers will have pallets that may not be quite the right shape or have some type of issue where they’re not the right fit for the purpose at hand. However, they could be perfect for you — ask if they have any they’d be willing to part with.
5. Small businesses
While you may assume big businesses would be the best source for pallets, as they get large volumes of shipments, that actually isn’t always the case. As Old World Garden Farms explains, larger companies often already have a system in place for how they recycle or dispose of pallets. Thus, you may have more luck with small businesses — if there are any spots you regularly frequent, consider asking if they can earmark the next few pallets they may have for you. Who knows, they just might be grateful to have an easy way to get rid of them!
6. New businesses
If you happen to know of a new business that opened in an area you frequent, consider stopping in to ask if they have any pallets they’d be willing to give away, as Old World Garden Farms recommends. After all, they had to get all their stock and various store furnishings in somehow — chances are, pallets were used for at least some of that process, and they may have a surplus they’re looking to get rid of.
7. Construction sites
If you happen to know of a new neighbourhood with plenty of new construction going on, or even spot a construction site on your regular route, you may want to stop and ask if they have (or will have) any pallets available, according to Do It Yourself. These spots need to bring in plenty of materials, and often at the end of the process, they simply burn any extra pallets or materials they don’t need and can’t use again — they may very well be willing to part with them for free if you ask.
8. Hardware stores
It may seem strange to ask hardware stores for what is essentially free wood when they actually sell wood products within their store. However, like many businesses, they get plenty of items shipped in on pallets, and likely have plenty on hand at all times. Plus, as Money Pantry explains, hardware stores deal primarily in dry goods, so the pallets are likely in good condition. As an added bonus, you can pick up any other supplies you may need for your project in the same stop.
9. Online marketplaces
There are so many online marketplaces available, from Craigslist to Facebook Marketplace and more, and they can be a great spot for finding free pallets, according to Money Pantry. Yes, people are often there looking to sell things for a small profit, but often they just want to get rid of something without having to take it to the dump. You can browse listings to see if anyone is offering free pallets, or you might even consider placing an ad, on the off chance that someone is looking to have some pallets taken off their hands for free.
10. Hobby and craft stores
If you’re looking to source free pallets for your projects, chances are you’re a crafty or DIY-savvy individual who already knows where to find the hobby and craft stores in your city. Like many other businesses, they receive plenty of items shipped on pallets. And, like with hardware stores, there’s the bonus of being able to conveniently purchase any additional supplies you need for your project. There’s just one thing to be mindful of: as WAH Adventures recommends, check to see if there are any paint spills or similar issues with the pallets.
11. Grocery stores
Since they’re dealing in perishable wares, grocery stores get a seriously high volume of shipments; many come on pallets, making this a great stop for anyone in search of free pallets. Two tips for this spot, though. First, as WAH Adventures suggests, try your local grocery stores rather than large chain spots. And second, make sure to examine the pallets — you don’t want any that have substances like spilled milk, mold, etc.
12. Gardening stores
If you’re someone who has a massive green thumb, you probably know where various garden stores are in your city — and as Weekend Craft suggests, they can be a perfect spot to score free pallets. Sure, you may have to brush off a little dirt, but isn’t that worth it for free materials? And, if your pallet project of choice is a hanging garden or planter beds, for example, you can even pick up the plants and other materials in the same stop.
13. Liquor stores
Liquor stores, like bars, get shipments of plenty of heavy bottles and cans, and thus just might have a surplus of pallets they’d be willing to part with, according to Packaging Revolution. Just make sure you’re not selecting any that have been victim to spills — not only will a beer-soaked pallet ruin your crafting experience, moisture like that could potentially damage the wood (via Pallets).
14. 1001 Pallets Facebook page
Yes, we’ve already recommended checking Facebook Marketplace and other online selling spots for pallets. However, as The Saw Guy recommends, you may also want to check out the 1001 Pallets Facebook page specifically, particularly if you live in a large urban area. The page has a free map that details various free pallet “spots” for many cities that could make the searching process much easier.
15. Curbside
This particular area recommended by The Saw Guy involves a lot more luck than the other spots, but there’s no denying that it can work. Basically, when you’re going around on your errands, just keep your eyes open — often pallets will just get tossed by the curb for pick-up, or in back alleys, etc. However, you’ll always want to double check by asking the nearby business whether you can in fact take them — don’t just presume they’re available for free.