Pallet collars are one of the most versatile and underappreciated accessories in the pallet world. These simple hinged frames transform any standard pallet into a sturdy, adjustable-height container — eliminating the need for separate boxes, bins, or crates in many applications.
What Are Pallet Collars?
A pallet collar is a rectangular frame (typically made of wood or plywood) with metal hinges at each corner. The collars sit on top of a pallet deck and can be stacked on top of each other to create containers of varying heights. Standard collars are typically 200mm (8 inches) tall, so stacking 3 collars creates a 24-inch-deep container.
Key Benefits
Flexibility is the main advantage. You can adjust container height simply by adding or removing collars. Need a shallow tray? Use one collar. Need a deep bin? Stack four. This eliminates the need for multiple sizes of boxes or containers.
Collars fold flat when not in use, reducing return shipping costs by up to 80% compared to rigid containers. They're also reusable hundreds of times, making them far more economical than cardboard boxes over their lifetime.
Common Applications
Pallet collars are ideal for loose parts and components in manufacturing, agricultural produce that needs ventilation, retail display using the pallet collar as the display container, automotive parts distribution, e-commerce fulfillment with mixed-size orders, and any application where container height needs to be adjustable.
Sizes and Specifications
The most common pallet collar sizes match standard pallet dimensions: 1200 x 800mm (for EUR pallets), 1200 x 1000mm (for larger European pallets), and 48 x 40 inches (for GMA pallets). Heights are typically 200mm per collar, with options for taller or shorter versions.
Pairing with Lids and Dividers
Add a plywood lid to seal the top of your collar stack — creating a fully enclosed shipping container. Internal dividers can separate products within the collar, preventing damage and improving organization. These accessories make pallet collar systems a genuine alternative to traditional packaging for many applications.