repallet.org

Michigan: plastic bulk merchandise container act

A 'plastic bulk merchandise container' is a plastic pallet, crate, container or shell used by a producer, distributor or retailer for bulk transport or storage of goods for retail sale; wood pallets are not covered.

MCL 445.2071 et seq. (2012 PA 186). In force since December 18, 2012. Last reviewed October 27, 2026 by repallet.org editors. Not legal advice.

What the law says

  • A 'plastic bulk merchandise container' is a plastic pallet, crate, container or shell used by a producer, distributor or retailer for bulk transport or storage of goods for retail sale; wood pallets are not covered. MCL 445.2073(e) (source)
  • A dealer buying ten or more in one transaction must pay by check or similar instrument, not cash or barter, and verify the seller is at least 16. MCL 445.2075(1) (source)
  • An individual seller must present government photo ID and sign a statement that they own or may sell the containers and have no conviction for theft of such containers. MCL 445.2075(2) (source)
  • The dealer must keep a record of each such purchase for at least one year and make it available to law enforcement. MCL 445.2077(1) (source)

What to do

Return marked pallets to their owner instead of selling, scrapping or burning them. See pooled pallets for each owner's return route.

Sources

  1. MCL 445.2073 (Plastic Bulk Merchandise Container Act: definitions) Michigan Legislature. Accessed October 27, 2026.
  2. MCL 445.2075 (dealer duties; sale by an individual) Michigan Legislature. Accessed October 27, 2026.
  3. MCL 445.2077 (records) Michigan Legislature. Accessed October 27, 2026.

Related