Custom Pallets & Skids: Engineered Solutions for BC & Alberta

Custom Pallets & Skids: Solutions for Complex Loads

Standard pallets not working? You need an engineered solution?

At Advance Pallet and Lumber, we design and build custom pallets and skids for loads that defy convention—from oversized machinery in Calgary to delicate equipment in Vancouver, specialized parts in Surrey, or agri-tech in Kelowna.

Since 1996, we've solved Western Canada’s toughest shipping puzzles. We don't just modify standard pallets; we engineer purpose-built solutions from the ground up, analyzing your exact load, handling methods, and route.

Turn your unique shipping challenge into a reliable, cost-effective success.

When Do You Need a Custom Pallet? Recognizing the Signs

Custom Pallets - Advance Pallet & Lumber

1. Your Load is an Unusual Size or Shape.

It overhangs a standard pallet.
It’s an odd shape (long, cylindrical, very tall).
It must fit a precise space in a container or rack.

2. Your Product is Extremely Heavy or Unbalanced.

Weight exceeds 4,000 lbs.
The load is uneven (e.g., heavy on one end).
You're shipping dense materials like machinery or metal.

3. Your Handling Process is Specialized.

You need specific lift points for cranes or custom forklifts.
You require built-in strapping channels or unique entry angles.
It must interface with custom racks, AGVs, or assembly lines.

4. You Face Unique Compliance or Access Needs.

Your design must meet export bracing or ISPM 15 regulations.
You have low-clearance doorways or specific jack requirements.
The pallet needs to be easily assembled or disassembled on-site.

The Advance Pallet Engineering & Build Process

Step 1: We Listen & Analyze

We start by understanding your complete challenge, not just the dimensions.

Load Details: Weight, balance, shape, and fragility.
The Journey: Handling method, transport type, and distance.
The Environment: Storage conditions and final destination needs.

Step 2: We Design & Engineer

Our team creates a purpose-built solution.

Structural Design: Calculating the perfect support with the right lumber, design (block/stringer), and reinforcements.
Detailed Planning: Providing CAD drawings for approval and selecting optimal materials for strength and durability.

Step 3: We Build with Precision

Your pallet is crafted locally in our British Columbia and Alberta workshops.

Expert Craftsmanship: Built by experienced craftsmen in Surrey, Calgary, or Kelowna.
Rigorous Inspection: Every unit is checked against your specifications before it ships.

Step 4: We Deliver & Support

We ensure a seamless handoff.

Timely Delivery: Coordinated to fit your schedule.
Ongoing Partnership: We follow up to ensure performance and provide support for loading and securing.

Types of Custom Pallets & Skids We Build

Heavy-Duty Skids

Oversized Pallets

For industrial machinery. Built with reinforced frames and lift points. Ideal for Calgary and Alberta manufacturers.

Oversized Pallets

For loads with large or irregular footprints. Provides full edge support for items like windows and panels in BC

Space-Saving Designs

Nested or Knock-Down (KD) pallets to reduce shipping volume and cost for Vancouver, Surrey, and Kelowna businesses.

Specialty Pallets

Space-Saving Designs

Featuring integrated designs like wings for clamps, notches for access, shock absorption for fragile loads etc

Industries We Serve with Custom Solutions

Custom Pallet solution for multiple industries

Advanced Manufacturing & Aerospace
Precision skids and pallets for high-value components and assemblies.

Energy & Natural Resources
Robust custom skids for pipeline parts, drilling equipment, and remote-site modules, serving the Alberta industrial sector.

Agriculture & Food Processing
Specialty designs for bulk bins, processing equipment, and delicate machinery in the BC Interior and Kelowna region.

Film & Entertainment
Fast-built, lightweight custom bases for on-location film equipment in Vancouver and across BC.

Technology & Electronics
Static-controlled and precision-leveling platforms for sensitive server racks and instrumentation.

Construction & Fabrication
Heavy-duty platforms for pre-built structures, windows, and architectural elements.

Cost-Benefit Analysis of Custom Pallets

The Risk of a Makeshift Pallet:

Product damage and client loss
Shipping delays and rejections
Workplace safety hazards
Wasted labor and materials

The ROI of a Custom Solution:

The Risk of a Makeshift Pallet:

Prevents damage – safe arrival guaranteed
Reduces shipping costs
Improves handling efficiency
Enhances professional reputation
Built to last for multiple uses

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at jbrar@advancepallet.ca if you cannot find an answer to your question.

How much does a custom pallet cost?

Pricing is as unique as the pallet itself. Simple size variations of a standard design may be only 20-30% more. Complex, heavily engineered skids for multi-ton machinery will be significantly more. We provide transparent, detailed quotes after the consultation phase, so there are no surprises. The question is often better framed as: "What is the cost of NOT using a proper custom pallet?"

What information do you need to provide a quote?

Start with the basics: a sketch with dimensions, total weight, and a description of the item. Photos are extremely helpful. The more detail you provide, the more accurate our initial quote will be. We will then ask targeted questions about handling and transit.

What is the lead time for a custom order?

For a straightforward design, we can often turn around an order in 5-7 business days. Complex engineering, prototyping, or large volume orders may take 2-4 weeks. We prioritize projects based on your deadline and will always provide a realistic timeline upfront.

Can you design a pallet for a load we haven't manufactured yet?

Absolutely. In fact, this is ideal. Involving us during your product design phase allows us to create a material handling solution that is optimized from the start, often saving you money and headaches down the line.

Do you offer design services if we just need the plans?

Yes, we can provide engineering design and CAD drawings as a standalone service for clients who wish to manufacture in-house or at another location.

Custom Pallets & Skids: Engineered Solutions for Unique Load

Custom Pallets & Skids: Solutions for Complex Loads