Glossary
Cruciform base
Also called: cruciform bottom, cross base
Reviewed
Definition
A cruciform base is a block-pallet bottom deck made of a perimeter frame plus center connector boards that cross in the middle, forming a cross (cruciform) pattern. It supports the center block in both directions and keeps full four-way entry.
How a cruciform base is built
A cruciform base adds boards along the center lines of a perimeter base, linking the edge blocks to the center block in both directions. The Uniform Standard also groups a panel bottom with cutouts under this style.
Why add the cross
- Center support: the center block bears on bottom boards in both directions, which helps on roller conveyors and floor stacking
- Stiffness: the extra boards tie the pallet together, which suits heavy loads and automated handling
- Four-way access: openings remain in each bay for pallet-jack wheels
Block bottom styles compared
| Base | Bottom boards | Relative wood use |
|---|---|---|
| Unidirectional | one direction | lowest |
| Perimeter | edges only | medium |
| Cruciform | edges plus center cross | highest |
Plastic and aluminum pallets also use perimeter and cruciform bottoms for rackable designs. See block pallet.
Questions
- What is the difference between perimeter and cruciform bases?
- Both frame the edges. A cruciform base adds center boards that cross in the middle, supporting the center block in both directions.
Sources
- Uniform Standard for Wood Pallets (NWPCA, now Woodpack Global), 2012 edition