As of 2025, Sam’s Club has officially updated its pallet policy, requiring all inbound shipments to arrive on block-style pallets. This move follows similar requirements already in place at Costco, which accepts only CHEP and PECO branded block pallets.
If you’re a supplier shipping to Sam’s Club, this change is critical. But if you’re in the broader pallet market, it’s important to know: stringer pallets are still widely used across the supply chain—and much more affordable.
Sam’s Club now requires block pallets only for all products delivered to its distribution centers. These pallets must meet specific size, strength, and handling specs suitable for automated warehouses.
This doesn’t mean stringer pallets are banned across the industry—far from it. It simply means that if you want to sell into Sam’s Club, your pallets must be compliant with their automation standards.
Both Sam’s Club and Costco have invested heavily in automated material handling systems. These systems rely on pallets that are:
Built strong enough to reduce damage during handling
Block pallets are the clear fit for these requirements. That’s why Costco uses CHEP and PECO block pallets—and now Sam’s Club is following suit.
Forklift and pallet jack access from all four sides
Used by retailers like Sam’s Club, Costco, and Target
Still common in foodservice, industrial, and regional distribution
