Our History
Over 25 years of serving Wisconsin businesses
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Milestones Along the Way
From a single truck to a leading regional supplier
The Beginning - A Dream Takes Root
Milwaukee Pallets USA was founded by Robert Garrison, a third-generation woodworker who saw an opportunity in the growing demand for quality pallets. Starting with just a pickup truck, $5,000 in savings, and a 2,000 sq ft rented lot, Robert began collecting and selling used pallets to nearby warehouses. The first year was challenging - we processed only 12,000 pallets and served just 15 customers. But our commitment to fair pricing and honest grading quickly built a reputation in the local business community.
First Major Expansion
After five years of 40% year-over-year growth, we moved to our first dedicated 25,000 sq ft facility. This expansion allowed us to increase inventory to 50,000+ pallets and launch our pallet repair services. We hired our first full-time employees beyond the founding team - a quality inspector with 20 years of experience and two logistics coordinators. By the end of 2003, we were processing 100,000+ pallets annually for over 200 customers across southeastern Wisconsin.
Launching the Recycling Revolution
The 2008 recession could have ended our story. Instead, we innovated. Recognizing that businesses were desperate to cut costs, we launched a comprehensive pallet recycling program that gave companies cash for their old pallets while providing us with raw materials for repair operations. This decision transformed our business model and established us as sustainability leaders in the pallet industry. Within 2 years, we were recycling 150,000 pallets annually and had helped divert over 500,000 pounds of wood from landfills.
Fleet Expansion & Regional Growth
To better serve our growing customer base across Wisconsin, we invested $450,000 in a dedicated delivery fleet of 8 trucks and 2 forklifts. This enabled us to offer same-day pickup and next-day delivery services throughout the state. We also opened a satellite yard in Green Bay, expanding our operational footprint beyond Milwaukee for the first time. Customer count exceeded 500 businesses, from small family warehouses to major manufacturing operations.
International Certification Achievement
We achieved ISPM 15 heat treatment certification, a rigorous international standard that allows pallets to be used for export shipping. This required installing specialized heat treatment chambers capable of maintaining 133°F for 30+ minutes throughout the entire pallet volume. The certification opened new markets and attracted customers in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and international logistics. We invested $200,000+ in equipment and training to achieve this milestone.
20 Years of Excellence
We celebrated two decades in business with the opening of our current 100,000 sq ft state-of-the-art facility in Milwaukee. The new location features automated sorting systems, advanced inventory management software, and capacity to store 150,000+ pallets simultaneously. We also launched our online ordering platform, making it easier than ever for customers to place orders, track deliveries, and manage accounts. Our team had grown to 35 employees, and we were processing 350,000+ pallets annually.
One Million Pallets Recycled
We reached a monumental environmental milestone: recycling our one millionth pallet since the program launched in 2008. This achievement diverted approximately 15 million pounds of wood from landfills and saved an estimated 25,000 trees. To celebrate, we partnered with Wisconsin conservation groups to plant 1,000 trees in state parks. Our sustainability commitment earned us the Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce Green Business Award.
Looking Forward - Innovation Never Stops
Today, we process over 500,000 pallets annually and serve 1,000+ customers across Wisconsin and beyond. We've installed solar panels that provide 40% of our facility's power, with plans to reach 100% renewable energy by 2027. We continue to invest in technology, training, and our team to provide the best possible service. Our vision for the next 25 years: become the most technologically advanced, environmentally responsible pallet company in the Midwest while maintaining the personal service that built our reputation.
From Humble Beginnings
What started as a small operation with a single truck has grown into one of Wisconsin's most trusted pallet suppliers, serving over 1,000 businesses across the state.
Built on Family Values
Milwaukee Pallets USA was built on the principles of hard work, integrity, and community. What started as a way to help local businesses has grown into a passion for sustainable logistics.
We believe that every pallet tells a story – from the forest where the wood was harvested, to the products it carries, to its eventual recycling and rebirth. We're proud to be part of that cycle.
Today, our team carries forward those original values, treating every customer as a neighbor and every pallet as an opportunity to make a difference.
Our Commitment
- Fair prices for buyers and sellers
- Honest assessment of pallet condition
- Environmental responsibility
- Supporting local Wisconsin businesses
Be Part of Our Story
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