Break-down pallet and method of use

Abstract

A pallet and method of use are provided for carry large quantities of materials for shipping. The pallet is configured to be divided into smaller sub-pallets, such that the pallet can be broken down, or otherwise subdivided, into smaller, more usable sub-pallets containing job lot quantities. Each sub-pallet may comprise decking and one or more skid blocks attached underneath the decking. Stringer boards may be attached to each of the sub-pallets to hold the sub-pallets relatively together. These stringer boards may be removable from each of the sub-pallets so that each of the sub-pallets can be separated from one another.

1 . A pallet, comprising: 
 a plurality of sub-pallets, wherein each sub-pallet comprises decking and one or more skid blocks attached underneath the decking; and    one or more stringer boards attached to each of the sub-pallets and holding the sub-pallets relatively together, wherein the one or more stringer boards are removable from each of the sub-pallets so that each of the sub-pallets can be separated from one another.    
   
   
       2 . The pallet of  claim 1 , wherein the decking comprises a plurality of decking boards.  
   
   
       3 . The pallet of  claim 1 , comprising stringer boards at either end of the decking.  
   
   
       4 . The pallet of  claim 1 , comprising stringer boards at both ends of the decking.  
   
   
       5 . The pallet of  claim 1 , comprising a plurality of skid blocks attached underneath the decking.  
   
   
       6 . The pallet of  claim 1 , comprising stringer boards at each end of the decking and additional stringer boards between the ends of the decking.  
   
   
       7 . The pallet of  claim 1 , wherein the stringer boards are attached to each of the sub-pallets using smooth pallet nails.  
   
   
       8 . A method of transporting material, comprising: 
 providing a pallet supporting said material, wherein said pallet includes a plurality of sub-pallets attached by stringer boards, each of said sub-pallets supporting a portion of said material;    removing said stringer boards from said sub-pallets; and    separating each of said sub-pallets from one another.    
   
   
       9 . The method of  claim 8 , wherein removing said stringer boards comprises removing smooth shank nails connecting said stringer boards to said sub-pallets.  
   
   
       10 . The method of  claim 8 , wherein each of said sub-pallets includes decking and skid blocks underneath said decking.  
   
   
       11 . The method of  claim 8 , wherein each of said sub-pallets supports trim material.  
   
   
       12 . The method of  claim 8 , further comprising banding together the portion of said material on each of said sub-pallets.