PalletTrader and PCT Partner to Streamline Transatlantic Pallet Exchange

Collaboration to Facilitate Sourcing, Selling, and Reuse of EU-Grade Pallets for U.S. Exports

PalletTrader, a leading U.S. digital marketplace for white wood pallets, has announced a strategic partnership with Pallet Control Tower (PCT), a European leader in pallet collection and exchange. This collaboration aims to establish a seamless process for transatlantic pallet exchange, enabling U.S. shippers to source, sell, and reuse EU-grade pallets for exports back to Europe.

A New Era in Cross-Border Pallet Exchange

The partnership between PalletTrader and PCT seeks to create a formalized system where pallets initially used for EU-to-U.S. imports can be repurposed for U.S. exports back to Europe. In turn, European shippers will gain access to U.S.-standard pallets via PCT’s digital platform for use in shipments across the Atlantic.

John Vaccaro, president of PalletTrader, highlighted the significance of this initiative:

“Previously, there was no market for European pallets in the U.S. They had no value, and there was no formalized mechanism, process, or incentive to find and use them for return trips. Now, by working together with PCT, we can bring new value to these EU-origin shipping assets and repurpose them for export.”

Bart Meijnen, president of Pallet Control Tower, added:

“PCT will provide a service to collect and sell both U.S. and European pallets within the Continent, ensuring they are repurposed as valuable assets rather than waste.”

Addressing Sustainability and Regulatory Compliance

The collaboration is driven in part by the European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which mandates stricter recycling and reuse targets for packaging materials, including pallets. Under this regulation, shippers can earn e-Credits—monetary incentives for reusing and recycling pallets—creating a financial incentive for businesses to participate in the program.

Vaccaro noted that beyond regulatory compliance, this initiative helps shippers cut costs:

“With PPWR, reuse and reshipping of EU-grade pallets back to their origin also potentially provides a form of credit to the shipper, offsetting pallet costs.”

Enhanced Digital Marketplace for Pallet Procurement

Both PalletTrader and PCT operate digital platforms designed to simplify pallet procurement and logistics management:

• Pallet Control Tower (PCT) allows European businesses to buy, sell, or swap Europallets and other returnable transport items (RTIs) via an automated dashboard.
• PalletTrader provides a similar service in the U.S., enabling businesses and recyclers to list surplus European-grade pallets for sale, facilitating seamless transactions.

Meijnen emphasized the ease of the platform’s use:

“Pallet users in Europe can place a request for quote or bid on pallet inventories displayed on their PCT dashboard, accepting a quote with one click.”

A Timely Solution Amid Trade and Tariff Challenges

With new tariffs imposed by the U.S. on various imported products, the ability to repurpose existing pallets can help international shippers mitigate supply chain costs. The collaboration between PalletTrader and PCT comes at a crucial time, offering shippers an alternative to purchasing one-way pallets, thereby reducing expenses.

About PalletTrader & PCT

• PalletTrader is a Bettaway Supply Chain Services initiative that provides a centralized digital platform for pallet procurement and management.

• Pallet Control Tower (PCT) offers a 24/7 online marketplace that simplifies pallet handling in Europe, providing intelligent software solutions for pallet exchange.