Pallets are crucial in logistics for efficient storage and transport. Choosing the right pallet size balances space, handling, and cost. Larger pallets hold more but may not fit everywhere, while smaller ones are easier to handle but less efficient. Selecting the best size impacts your operations and costs significantly.
Pallet Size Chart
USA Pallet Sizes
| Pallet dimensions in inches | Pallet dimensions in millimeters | Production rank | Industries that use them |
| 40 * 48 inches | 1016 * 1219 millimeters | 1 | Grocery, many others |
| 42 * 42 inches | 1067 * 1067 millimeters | 2 | Paint and telecommunications |
| 48 * 48 inches | 1219 * 1219 millimeters | 3 | Drums |
| 48 * 40 inches | 1219 * 1016 millimeters | 4 | Cement, military |
| 48 * 42 inches | 1219 * 1067 millimeters | 5 | Beverage, chemical |
| 40 * 40 inches | 1016 * 1016 millimeters | 6 | Dairy |
| 48 * 45 inches | 1219 * 1143 millimeters | 7 | Automotive |
| 44 * 44 inches | 1118 * 1118 millimeters | 8 | chemical, drums |
| 36 * 36 inches | 914 * 914 millimeters | 9 | Beverage |
| 48 * 36 inches | 1219 * 914 millimeters | 10 | Shingles, beverages and packaged paper |
| 35 * 45.5 inches | 889 * 1156 millimeters | Unknown | Military ½ ISO container fits 36 inches standard doors |
| 88 * 108 inches | 2240 * 2740 millimeters | Unknown | Air cargo for the military |
| 48 * 20 inches | 1219 *508 millimeters | Unknown | Retail |
EURO Pallet Sizes
| EURO pallet type | Pallet dimensions in inches and millimeters according to(length*width*diameter) | ISO pallet alternative | Pallet weight in kilograms and pounds | Load weight in kilograms and pounds |
| EUR EUR 1 | 31.50 * 47.24 * 5.71 inches 800 * 1200 * 145 millimeters | ISO1 | 20 – 25 kilograms 44.09 – 55.11 pounds | 2490 kilograms 5489.51 pounds |
| EUR 2 | 47.24 * 39.37 * 5.67 inches 1200 * 1000 * 144 millimeters | ISO2 | 33 kilograms 72.75 pounds | 1470 kilograms 3240.79 pounds |
| EUR 3 | 39.37 * 47.24 * 5.67 inches 1000 * 1200 * 144 millimeters | – | 29 kilograms 63.93 pounds | 1920 kilograms 4232.87 pounds |
| EUR 6 | 31.50 * 23.62 * 5.67 inches 800 * 600 * 144 millimeters | ISO0, it’s half the size of EUR | 9.5 kilograms 20.94 pounds | 500 kilograms 1102.31 |
| 23.62 * 15.75 inches 600 * 400 millimeters | Quarter the size of EUR | – | – | |
| 15.75 * 11.81 inches 400 * 300 millimeters | An eighth of the size of EUR | – | – |
ISO Pallet sizes
| Pallet sizing (width and length) in millimeters | Pallet sizing (width and length) in inches | Wasted floor ISO container | The popularity of pallets in each region |
| 1016 * 1219 millimeters | 40.0 * 48.0 inches | 3.7%(40 feet ISO fits 20 pallets) | North America |
| 1000 * 1200 millimeters | 39.4 * 47.2 inches | 6.7% | Asia, Europe; similar to 40 * 48 inches has the same footprint as the EUR 3 pallet. |
| 1165 * 1165 millimeters | 45.9 * 45.9 inches | 8.1% | Australia |
| 1067 * 1067 millimeters | 42.0 * 42.0 inches | 11.5% | North America, Asia, Europe |
| 1100 * 1100 millimeters | 43.3 * 43.3 inches | 14% | Asia |
| 800 * 1200 millimeters | 31.5 * 47.2 inches | 15.2% | Europe; same footprint as EUR 1 pallet and it fits many doorways. |
Choosing the Right Pallet Size
Selecting the appropriate pallet size is essential for maximizing efficiency and reducing costs in warehousing and transportation. The right choice can enhance storage and streamline shipping processes, while the wrong one may lead to inefficiencies and higher expenses.
Considerations for Storage
When choosing a pallet size for storage, factors such as warehouse layout and racking systems play a crucial role. For instance, larger pallets can utilize space more effectively, but they might not fit well in all racking systems. Conversely, smaller pallets are easier to handle and fit into tighter spaces but may not optimize storage capacity. Balancing these trade-offs is key to creating an efficient storage solution.
Considerations for Transportation
In transportation, pallet size affects loading efficiency and compatibility with shipping containers and vehicles. Larger pallets can increase shipping efficiency by reducing the number of trips needed, but they might not fit into all types of containers or vehicles. On the other hand, smaller pallets are often easier to load and unload but might require more trips. Evaluating these factors helps in choosing a pallet size that minimizes transportation costs and maximizes efficiency.
By understanding these considerations and their impacts, you can make informed decisions about pallet sizes that enhance both storage and transportation efficiency.
Pallet Size and Industry Standards
Adhering to industry standards for pallet sizes ensures compatibility with global supply chains and compliance with regulations. Following these guidelines helps streamline logistics operations and reduces potential issues in international trade.
ISO Pallet Standards
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) provides guidelines for pallet dimensions to promote international trade and efficiency. By adhering to ISO standards, businesses can ensure their pallets are compatible with global shipping systems, enhancing operational fluidity.
However, while ISO standards facilitate international compatibility, they may not always align with local or industry-specific requirements, potentially requiring additional adjustments.
ASTM Pallet Standards
The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) outlines standards for pallet performance and dimensions used in the United States. Following ASTM guidelines helps ensure that pallets meet specific performance criteria and fit well within domestic logistics systems.
Yet, focusing solely on ASTM standards might limit compatibility with international systems, necessitating careful consideration of both domestic and global requirements.
Balancing these standards helps businesses optimize pallet use, improve efficiency, and comply with regulations. Understanding the trade-offs and challenges involved in adhering to different standards ensures better decision-making regarding pallet size and overall logistics strategy.
FAQ
1. What is the most common pallet size used in North America?
Answer: The most common pallet size in North America is 48×40 inches. This standard size is widely used due to its compatibility with most racking systems and transport vehicles. It provides a good balance between capacity and ease of handling.
2. How do industry standards affect pallet selection?
Answer: Industry standards, such as those from ISO and ASTM, influence pallet selection by ensuring compatibility with global and domestic logistics systems. Adhering to these standards can streamline international trade and improve efficiency, but businesses must also consider local requirements and specific operational needs.
3. What factors should I consider when choosing a pallet size for storage?
Answer: When choosing a pallet size for storage, consider factors such as warehouse layout, racking systems, and available space. Larger pallets can optimize storage but may not fit all racking configurations, while smaller pallets are easier to handle but may not utilize space as efficiently. Balancing these factors helps maximize storage efficiency.