In logistics, pallet size is key to efficient storage, transport, and handling. Choosing the right size can streamline operations, but balancing factors like cost, space, and load capacity is challenging. Each decision impacts efficiency and cost, making it crucial to carefully consider all options for optimal results.
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. |
Standard Pallet Sizes Across Different Regions
Pallet sizes can vary significantly depending on the region, with different standards adopted in North America, Europe, and Asia. Each region has developed its own preferred pallet dimensions, reflecting local industry needs and practices.
However, these variations can create challenges when shipping goods internationally, as pallets must fit seamlessly into global logistics systems. Understanding these differences is essential for choosing the right pallet size, balancing compatibility with cost, and ensuring efficient operations.
North American Pallet Sizes
In North America, the 48×40 inch pallet, known as the GMA pallet, is the most commonly used size. This standardization simplifies logistics across the continent, making it easier to transport goods efficiently.
However, when exporting to regions with different pallet standards, companies might face challenges in fitting these pallets into European or Asian racking systems, potentially increasing costs and handling complexity.
European Pallet Sizes
Europe primarily uses the 1200×800 mm Euro pallet, widely recognized for its durability and compatibility with various racking systems. The Euro pallet’s design suits the narrower European trucks and storage spaces, but it may not align perfectly with North American or Asian pallets, complicating cross-border logistics. Businesses must weigh the benefits of using Euro pallets for local efficiency against the potential need for pallet exchange when shipping abroad.
Asian Pallet Sizes
In Asia, pallet sizes tend to vary, but the 1100×1100 mm pallet is a standard choice for many industries. This size is optimized for shipping within the region, particularly in countries like Japan and Korea. However, the lack of a single standardized size across Asia presents challenges for companies exporting to or from this region.
Choosing the right pallet size requires careful consideration of regional compatibility and the costs associated with using non-standard pallets in international trade.
How to Choose the Right Pallet Size for Your Needs
Selecting the right pallet size involves considering factors like the nature of your goods, storage space, and transportation methods. Each decision requires balancing efficiency with cost, as the wrong size can lead to wasted space, increased handling time, or higher transportation costs. By carefully evaluating your needs, you can choose a pallet size that optimizes your operations and minimizes challenges.
Assessing Your Load Requirements
Understanding the weight and dimensions of your products is the first step in choosing the appropriate pallet size. A pallet that’s too large might waste space, while one that’s too small could lead to overhanging goods and potential damage. It’s important to match your pallet size to your load requirements, considering the trade-offs between maximizing space and ensuring product safety.
Considering Storage and Racking Systems
The size of your pallets should align with your storage and racking systems to maximize space and ensure safe handling. A mismatched pallet can create inefficiencies in your warehouse, leading to difficulties in stacking or retrieving items.
However, optimizing for storage alone might not be enough—consider how well the chosen pallet size integrates with both your current and future storage solutions, weighing the impact on overall warehouse efficiency.
Transportation and Handling Considerations
Pallet size can affect how goods are loaded onto trucks, containers, and aircraft, making it essential to choose a size that facilitates smooth transportation. A pallet that fits well within transport vehicles can reduce shipping costs and minimize the risk of damage during transit.
Yet, it’s also crucial to consider how this choice impacts loading and unloading times, as well as compatibility with different transport modes, ensuring a seamless flow through the entire supply chain.
FAQs
What is the most common pallet size in North America?
Answer: The most common pallet size in North America is the 48×40 inch pallet, often referred to as the GMA pallet. This size is widely used across various industries because it fits well within standard shipping containers and trucks, making it ideal for domestic transportation.
How do I choose the right pallet size for international shipping?
Answer: When choosing a pallet size for international shipping, consider the standard pallet sizes used in the destination region, the dimensions of your goods, and the transportation methods involved. Opting for a pallet size that aligns with the destination’s standards can reduce handling costs and prevent delays. For example, if shipping to Europe, consider using the 1200×800 mm Euro pallet.
Can using the wrong pallet size affect my shipping costs?
Answer: Yes, using the wrong pallet size can significantly impact your shipping costs. A pallet that’s too large may result in wasted space, leading to higher transportation costs. Conversely, a pallet that’s too small might not fully utilize the available space in a truck or container, also driving up costs. It’s crucial to choose a pallet size that maximizes efficiency while minimizing expenses.