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Blackberry Blog
A behind the scenes look at Blackberry Pallet. Giving you insights to the pallet manufacturing industry and businesses we support.


2026 Hardwood Outlook: The Manufacturing Cost of Uncertainty
As we enter 2026, the industrial economy is being defined by a widening disconnect. On one side, we see early signals of demand recovery; on the other, a supply chain that is being structurally weakened by uncertainty. This is not a standard market cycle. We are watching a breakdown between the signals governing consumption and the realities governing production. This isn't just an “industry problem” in the narrow sense. It touches lives at every level: from the front porch t

Joe H
Jan 154 min read


2025 US Wood Manufacturing in Review & Challenges for 2026
Update: We have expanded this review into a comprehensive market analysis. For deeper data on the year ahead, read our latest release: 2026 Hardwood Outlook: The Manufacturing Cost of Uncertainty 2025 is finally behind us, and to be honest, we’re thankful for it. I won't sugarcoat it—the past year was incredibly challenging for all of us. Whether you were running a sawmill, managing a logistics fleet, or trying to keep a manufacturing line staffed, 2025 felt less like "busine

Joe H
Jan 26 min read


EUDR: New Deadlines and Critical Nuances for US Industries
It’s Official: EU Deforestation Regulation Implementation Delayed by One Year The uncertainty is finally over. On December 17, 2025, the European Parliament voted to officially amend the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), granting a one-year delay to the implementation timeline. The vote was decisive, passing with 405 votes in favor , 242 against, and 8 abstentions. This amendment provides much-needed breathing room for US timber industries to align their supply chains with

Joe H
Dec 18, 20253 min read


EU Parliament and Council Agree: EUDR To Be Delayed Again
On the evening of December 4th, negotiators from the European Parliament and the Council reached a definitive agreement to delay the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) for a second time. This late-breaking deal establishes new timelines and introduces targeted changes to the regulation's scope and future review process. Here is a breakdown of the agreement and what it means for impacted stakeholders, particularly in the United States. The Agreement Details The joint agreement

Joe H
Dec 5, 20253 min read


EUDR Update: 11-26: 1-Yr Delay Clears Parliament – Adds New Complication
Following the European Parliament’s plenary vote today, the following points summarize the current status of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and the specific impacts on US operations. NOTE: This is the approved Proposed Amendment by the Parliament. It is not yet law. EUDR Compliance Timeline Extension (Approved) The Parliament has approved a one-year delay to the implementation timeline. Large Corporations: Compliance date moved to 30 December 2026 . SMEs: Compli

Joe H
Nov 26, 20252 min read


EUDR Update: The Gridlock Ends, but the Clock is Still Ticking
If you’ve been following the updates on the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), you know the situation in Brussels has been nothing short of a legislative deadlock. For US wood product suppliers, the uncertainty has been the only constant. However, this week marked a major breakthrough. The stalemate between EU Member States appears to be over, but a critical vote next week will determine if we get a clean delay or more chaos before the holidays. Here is the latest status and

Joe H
Nov 20, 20254 min read


EUDR and Hardwood Pallets: What It Means for Blackberry Customers
The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) goes into effect this December, placing new requirements on products linked to deforestation. This post explains what the EUDR covers, when it applies to wooden pallets, and why Blackberry Pallet’s products—used exclusively as packaging—are exempt. If you export to the EU, here’s what you need to know and why our hardwood pallets remain a compliant, reliable choice.

Joe H
May 20, 20253 min read


Manufacturing Tomorrow’s Success Starts with Readiness Today
What does operational readiness look like during this phase of "prepared waiting"? Is it simply a matter of holding steady and watching the indicators? Or is this period a critical opportunity for strategic action in itself? At Blackberry Pallet, operating within this environment, we believe proactive engagement remains crucial.

Joe H
May 1, 20253 min read


Building An Online Presence the Same Way We Build Pallets
We started with nothing more than a Facebook page that had a single photo, our address, and a phone number. • No website. • No blog. •...

Joe H
Apr 28, 20253 min read


Understanding the EUDR Impact for US Wood Product Suppliers
For companies involved in the wood products supply chain, understanding this regulation is crucial. Compliance begins 12-30-25, Prepare now.

Joe H
Apr 3, 20256 min read


Are You Ready? Manufacturing Supply Chain Interdependence
The manufacturing sector, here in late March 2025, continues to navigate a period marked by both significant challenges and emerging...

Joe H
Mar 28, 20252 min read


Automation, Supply Chains, and the Rise of US Manufacturing
The U.S. manufacturing sector is currently experiencing a period of transformation, marked by both challenges and opportunities. Several...

Joe H
Jan 30, 20255 min read


The True Cost of Cheap Pallets: Blanca, A Real-World Example
How cheap pallets ended up costing Blanca Potato money. A look at how an investment in quality can reap dividends.

Joe H
Nov 25, 20243 min read


Cost vs. Quality: A Manufacturer's Guide to Long-Term Profitability
“When does cheap become costly? When does quality actually become inexpensive?” The lessons that all manufacturers can learn from Boeing.

Joe H
Nov 21, 20247 min read


Partnership Opportunity for SW VA Manufacturers for 48x40 HT Pallets
Blackberry Pallet, your trusted pallet supplier since 1991, is extending a partnership opportunity to manufacturers in Southwest Virginia!

Joe H
Nov 1, 20242 min read


2024: Pallet Solutions for VA's Growing Manufacturing
The past few years have been challenging for manufacturing and food distribution companies. From fluctuating demand to supply chain...

Joe H
Mar 18, 20242 min read


Why Pallets are the Backbone of Manufacturing and Food Distribution
Did you know that behind every product you buy and every meal you enjoy, there's a humble pallet working tirelessly? Pallets may seem...

Joe H
Feb 23, 20242 min read


A Guide to Overhauling Your Machine: Minimize Risk - Maximize Results
Whether your a pallet manufacturer like Blackberry Pallet or in some other completely different industry, this guide may help you.

Joe H
Jan 2, 20245 min read


Saying Goodbye 2023
Blackberry Pallet reflects on 2023 and looks ahead to the challenges of 2024. Ready to continue serving local businesses in the new year.

Joe H
Dec 18, 20232 min read


Refurbished Pallets: A Closer Look at Used Vs. New
Refurbished Pallets: Is it really cost effective? We will dive into the pros and cons of used pallets and help you understand the true cost.

Joe H
Nov 17, 20234 min read
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