By Kelyn Kidney, National Relationship Manager
Exploring the Circular Lifecycle
Most people don’t think twice about a pallet once it’s unloaded. But at Ongweoweh, we know that the end of a pallet’s journey is just the beginning of something bigger. In fact, one of the most overlooked aspects of the supply chain is also one of the most important: what happens next.
A Pallet’s Journey Doesn’t End at Delivery
Pallets are built to work hard – but they don’t last forever. Over time, boards crack, fasteners loosen, and heavy loads take their toll. But instead of sending broken pallets to the landfill, many of them enter a circular lifecycle.
That’s where companies like Ongweoweh come in.
The Circular Lifecycle in Action
Here’s what happens when a pallet reaches the end of its usable life:
- Repair & Return Programs
Many pallets are picked up, inspected, and repaired – often multiple times over their lifespan. This not only reduces waste, but also saves clients money and keeps pallets in circulation longer. - Recycling & Material Recovery
When pallets can no longer be safely repaired, they’re dismantled. Usable wood can be repurposed to fix other pallets. The rest is often chipped for mulch, biofuel, or animal bedding – ensuring nearly zero waste. - Responsible Disposal (When Necessary)
If materials are no longer usable, we ensure they are responsibly processed – never dumped. - Tracking the Full Circle
With modern tracking tools and data analytics, we help clients monitor pallet performance, understand loss rates, and optimize the full lifecycle – from delivery to final recycling.
Why It Matters
This circular approach isn’t just about efficiency. It’s about stewardship – a core value at Ongweoweh. As a Native American-founded company, we live by the 7th Generation principle: making choices today that preserve and protect the world for those who come after us.
A broken pallet doesn’t need to be the end of the story. With the right systems – and the right partners – it can be part of something far more sustainable.
To learn more about leveraging sustainable practices in your logistics operation, contact Ongweoweh today!