Choosing a pallet fastener can be a delicate balancing act. Ideally, you want to land somewhere between a lower price-per-pallet and a fit secure enough to safely do the job.

Let’s first look at nails. They’re commonplace and often the fastener of choice. Why? Well, nails tend to flex with the wood and help maintain strength. Nails are usually cheaper. But, nails can also fail – especially if a lot of vertical force is expected on the load. We’re talking product loss or handler injury. Yikes. So… are screws better? Sometimes, yes.