Bulk Pallet vs Boxed Pallet: What’s the Difference?

Posted by The Wares Team on 26th Feb 2026

A Guide for Customers New to Wholesale Orders

If you’re new to ordering glass packaging in larger quantities, you may have come across the terms bulk pallet and boxed pallet. They’re often used interchangeably in the industry — but they don’t always mean the same thing.

At Wares of Knutsford, we supply both formats, and understanding the difference can help you choose the right option for your production setup.

What Is a Bulk Pallet?

A bulk pallet usually means the glass is packed loose in layers directly onto the pallet, separated by cardboard sheets or dividers, and securely wrapped for transport.

The jars or bottles are not pre-packed into smaller boxes or trays. Instead, they are stacked in protective layers to maximise pallet quantity and shipping efficiency.

Because the glass is stacked directly onto the pallet, bulk pallets are best suited to sites with appropriate handling equipment. This typically includes:

A forklift truck or powered pallet truck for unloading
A manual pallet truck for internal movement
Adequate floor space to access and safely de-layer the pallet
A suitable area to transfer glass onto your production line

Why choose a bulk pallet?

Lower cost per unit
Higher quantity per pallet
Reduced outer packaging waste
More efficient for larger-scale production

Bulk pallets are commonly used by contract packers, larger producers and businesses with dedicated storage space and trained warehouse staff.

What Is a Boxed Pallet?

A boxed pallet contains glass that has first been packed into individual boxes. Those boxes are then stacked onto a pallet and securely wrapped for transport.

In some cases, products may be shrink-wrapped in protective packs rather than placed into outer boxes — but the key difference is that the glass is contained in manageable units rather than stacked loose in layers.

This format provides structure, easier handling and greater flexibility for businesses that don’t want to de-layer glass directly from a bulk pallet.

Why choose a boxed pallet?

Easier and safer manual handling
No specialist unloading equipment required
Ideal for sites without forklift access
Clear pack quantities for simpler stock control
Easier to move, store and stack internally
Suitable for smaller production environments

Mixed Box Pallets

We also offer mixed boxed pallets, allowing you to combine different jar or bottle lines onto one pallet. This is particularly useful if you:

Run multiple product ranges
Want to trial new formats
Need flexibility without committing to a full pallet of one item
Have limited storage space

Mixed box pallets give you wholesale efficiency with greater product variety.

Why the Confusion?

In some parts of the industry, suppliers may describe boxed pallets as “bulk” simply because they are sold in pallet quantities. This can understandably lead to confusion.

When ordering a bulk pallet, it’s important to confirm:

Whether the glass is loose layered or boxed
How it will be wrapped and protected
What equipment is needed for unloading and storage

If you’re moving from buying boxes to buying pallets for the first time, this is especially important.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The right choice depends on:

Your production volume
Storage space
Handling equipment
Labour setup
Waste preferences

If you’re unsure, it’s always worth asking to clarify the packing format before dispatch.

Clear communication upfront avoids surprises — and helps ensure the glass arrives in a format that suits your operation.

Delivery Information

All pallet deliveries are made on a kerbside delivery basis. This means the pallet will be delivered to the nearest safe access point at ground level. Drivers are unable to move goods inside your premises, up driveways, into garages or through doorways.

If you do not have forklift access, we can arrange a tail lift vehicle to assist with unloading. Tail lift services must be requested in advance and additional charges may apply.

Residential Addresses

Pallet deliveries to residential addresses require additional planning. Access restrictions, narrow roads, parked vehicles or uneven surfaces can affect delivery. In some cases, a smaller vehicle or tail lift service may be required, and surcharges may apply.

Please ensure:

Clear and suitable access for an HGV-sized vehicle (unless agreed otherwise)
Someone is available to receive and inspect the delivery
You have appropriate equipment or assistance to move the pallet from the kerbside

If you are unsure about access or unloading arrangements, we are always happy to discuss this before dispatch to ensure a smooth delivery.

Final Thoughts

Both bulk and boxed pallets are widely used across the glass packaging industry. The key difference is simply how the glass is packed on the pallet.

Understanding that distinction helps you plan more effectively, manage expectations and choose the most efficient option for your business.

If you ever need clarification on pallet formats or packing methods, just ask the friendly Wares team — it’s always better to check before your delivery arrives.

For more infomation, help and to order a pallet please contact our friendly sales team on 01477 537224 or contact us