In the world of shipping, storage, and warehouse logistics, knowing the difference between a skid vs pallet can help businesses make smarter, more cost-effective decisions. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they’re not the same. Whether you’re working with plastic pallets, heavy duty pallets, or simple pallet skids, it’s important to understand their unique structures, uses, and benefits.
At Custom Built Plastic Pallets®, we often refer to skids as storage skids, which are typically used as a permanent foundation for stacked goods. This article will walk you through the key distinctions so you can determine the right option for your specific application.
What Is a Skid?
So, what is a skid, and how is it used today? A skid—sometimes referred to as a pallet skid—is a single-deck platform that sits on legs or supports. It lacks a bottom deck, which means it has less stability than a pallet but offers lower clearance and weight.
Skids are especially useful in static storage situations, where loads don’t need to be moved frequently. When used as storage skids, they often serve as permanent bases for stacked materials.
What Is a Pallet?
A pallet is a flat transport structure with both top and bottom deck boards, usually supported by three or four stringers. Goods are placed on top of the pallet, which is then moved using material handling equipment.
Plastic pallets are ideal for businesses that require durability and resistance to humidity, temperature changes, or repeated use. While wood pallets are still common, they are more prone to damage and wear. If you’re looking for longevity, consider switching to heavy duty pallets made from plastic.
Explore more advantages in our Plastic vs. Wood Pallets blog. (HYPERLINKED: To Blog 2 URL when live)
What Is the Difference Between a Skid and a Pallet?
The main difference between a skid and a pallet lies in their structure. A pallet has both a top and bottom deck, which adds stability and allows it to be easily handled by forklifts and pallet jacks. In contrast, a skid—or pallet skid—only has a top deck and rests directly on supports or pedestals.
Skids were actually the precursor to pallets, used widely before the double-deck pallet was invented in the 1930s. Today, skids still serve specialized storage purposes, while pallets are the go-to for transport and warehousing.
Benefits of Pallets Over Skids
When it comes to moving goods through a facility, pallets generally offer more advantages. Their double-deck design makes them easier to:
- Navigate through warehouses
- Stack efficiently
- Store on racks
- Integrate with automated systems
- Use with forklifts and pallet jacks
Still, the right choice depends on your specific needs. A heavy duty pallet may be the better solution for most warehouse and shipping applications, while skids might be more suitable for stationary storage.
Conclusion
Choosing between a skid vs pallet doesn’t have to be complicated. Both have their place in warehousing and logistics, and the decision largely depends on how and where you intend to use them.
Understanding the difference between skids and pallets—including their structure, function, and material options—will help you make an informed choice. For those in need of a long-lasting solution, plastic pallets and heavy duty pallets often provide the best return on investment.