Pallet ProcurementThe purchasing manager's pallet playbook
Wood pallet PPI WPU084101361.8 in September 2026 (preliminary)+1.5% on the month, +7.7% on the yearRead the September 2026 reportSource: BLS

Break-even dwell

The dwell time at which a pooled pallet costs the same per trip as an owned one.

Last reviewed October 27, 2026. How we check facts

Solve the pooled cost-per-trip formula for dwell: d* = (owned cost per trip − issue fee − transfer fee − loss rate × lost-pallet charge) ÷ daily rent. Below d*, renting is cheaper.

It only applies to pools that charge daily rent.

See also

Dwell time
The number of days a pallet stays on one party's account or premises before moving on.
Daily rental (daily hire)
A per-day charge for each pooled pallet on a customer's account.
Cost per trip (CPT)
The total cost of using a pallet for one shipment, including everything beyond its price.
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