§1What the rule says
21 CFR 1.904 defines transportation equipment as equipment used in food transportation operations, for example bulk and non-bulk containers, bins, totes, pallets, pumps, fittings, hoses, gaskets, loading systems and unloading systems.
21 CFR 1.906 then requires that vehicles and transportation equipment be designed, and of such material and workmanship, as to be suitable and adequately cleanable for their intended use; be maintained in a sanitary condition; and be stored so they don't harbour pests or become contaminated. Equipment for food that needs temperature control must support it.
The rule has its own scope and exemptions in 21 CFR 1.900; check whether and how it applies to your operation with the FDA's guidance and your food-safety team.
§2What to put in a food pallet spec
- Material: state whether wood, plastic or presswood is acceptable for each flow, given cleaning needs.
- Condition: dry, clean, free of mould, odour, chemical residue and pest activity on delivery.
- History: for recycled pallets, no previous use with chemicals or non-food contaminants, if your food-safety plan requires it.
- Storage: delivered pallets stored under cover and off the ground at your site and the supplier's.
- Inspection: a pre-use check by the loader, recorded.
These are buying controls, not the rule's text. Your written food-safety procedures decide what applies.
§3Wood or plastic?
The rule doesn't ban wood pallets; it asks that equipment be suitable and adequately cleanable for its use. Some food operations choose plastic for washability; see wood vs plastic pallets.