If you are in a job that would involve warehousing or storage, then I am sure you are no stranger to the thing called a pallet.
So what size should a pallet be? What are the standard sizes that it comes in? And how to choose the right pallet for your business? Let the rest of this article tell you the answers to these questions!
What are pallets? Why are they critical to logistics?
In layman’s terms:
A pallet is a “base” for something, like a “moving platform” or “floor” for goods.
It can be made of wood, plastic, metal or paper, and is generally square or rectangular in shape, on which boxes, packages, raw materials, etc. can be placed.
The bottom of the pallet can be inserted by a forklift or pallet truck, and it is very convenient to lift, move and stack the whole platform together with the goods.
Functions of Pallets
- Facilitates Handling:
Pallets allow goods to be moved in batches rather than box by box or trip by trip. - Improves Efficiency:
With just one forklift insertion, a pallet can carry over a thousand kilograms, enabling large-volume movement at once. - Reduces Damage:
Pallets keep goods elevated from the ground, lowering the risk of moisture, dirt, and impact damage. - Enhances Storage:
Goods placed on pallets can be stacked neatly, making them easier to manage with racking systems. - Supports Standardization:
With standardized pallet sizes, warehouse planning, transport loading, and overall logistics become more streamlined.
The Importance of Pallets in the Supply Chain
The supply chain is like a journey where goods move from raw materials → factories → warehouses → stores. Pallets play a central role in this process. Why are they considered crucial to logistics and the supply chain?
1. In Warehousing:
Pallets enable quick inbound and outbound movement of goods, including shelving and deshelving.
They improve inventory management efficiency (e.g., for stocktaking and sorting).
2. In Transportation:
Pallet-based transport (such as full pallet shipments) significantly reduces loading and unloading time.
Pallets help goods remain stable and easy to load on trucks, containers, and trains.
3. In Global Trade:
Standardized pallets are a key element in achieving automated and intelligent global logistics.
Without pallets, many international transportation and warehousing systems would hardly function properly.
Detailed explanation of global standard pallet sizes
| Region | Pallet Type | Size (inches) | Size (mm) | Common Use Area |
| North America | GMA Standard Pallet | 48″ x 40″ | 1219 x 1016 mm | USA, Canada, Mexico |
| Europe | EUR 1 Pallet | 31.5″ x 47.2″ | 800 x 1200 mm | Most EU countries |
| Europe | EUR 2 Pallet | 47.2″ x 39.4″ | 1200 x 1000 mm | Germany, France, Italy, etc. |
| Europe | EUR 3 Pallet | 39.4″ x 47.2″ | 1000 x 1200 mm | For larger/heavy goods |
| Japan/Asia | Japanese Standard | 43.3″ x 43.3″ | 1100 x 1100 mm | Japan, South Korea |
| China/Asia | Asian Common Size | 43.3″ x 47.2″ | 1100 x 1200 mm | China, Southeast Asia, Mideast |
| Australia | Australian Standard | 45.9″ x 45.9″ | 1165 x 1165 mm | Australia, New Zealand |
Applicable Industries and Scenarios for Different Pallet Sizes
1. North American GMA Standard Pallet (48″ x 40″)
One of the most widely used pallet types.
Applicable Industries: Food, beverage, retail, e-commerce, consumer goods
Common Scenarios:
- Supermarket distribution centers (e.g., Walmart, Costco)
- High compatibility with North American truck dimensions, offering high loading efficiency
2. European EUR 1 Pallet (800 x 1200 mm)
A certified standard pallet by the European Pallet Association (EPAL).
Applicable Industries: Pharmaceuticals, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), industrial parts
Common Scenarios:
- Standard racking and container transport within the EU
- High compatibility with European truck trailers and pallet racking systems
3. European EUR 2 Pallet (1200 x 1000 mm)
Wider than the EUR 1 pallet, making it more suitable for bulk goods.
Applicable Industries: Heavy industry, chemicals, paper products
Common Scenarios:
- Industrial warehouses, storage of mechanical components
- Ideal for goods that require a larger surface area
4. Asian/Japanese Pallet (1100 x 1100 mm)
A commonly used size under the Japanese JIS standard.
Applicable Industries: Electronics, electrical appliances, consumer goods
Common Scenarios:
- Automated storage and retrieval systems
- Well-suited for square pallet forklifts or robotic handling systems
5. China/Asia Common Pallet (1100 x 1200 mm)
Applicable Industries: Machinery manufacturing, apparel, export logistics
Common Scenarios:
- Ocean shipping from China, export containers (compatible with 20-foot and 40-foot containers)
- Dual-purpose for storage and export, compatible with standard racking and pallet transport
6. Australian Standard Pallet (1165 x 1165 mm)
Specifically designed for Australia’s rail and container systems.
Applicable Industries: Agricultural products, food, building materials
Common Scenarios:
- Domestic transport systems in Australia
- Large dimensions are better suited for lightweight but space-consuming goods
Types of Pallets and Their Structural Characteristics
Two basic types of pallets: Stringer Pallet vs. Block Pallet
| Item | Stringer Pallet | Block Pallet |
| Structure | Uses parallel boards (stringers) to support top deck | Uses solid blocks to support the deck |
| Materials | Mostly wood, also plastic or composite | Wood, plastic, or metal |
| Fork Entry | Typically two-way (can be notched for four-way) | Always four-way entry |
| Stability | Less stable, suitable for light to medium loads | More stable, suitable for heavy loads |
| Cost | Generally lower | Slightly higher |
| Common Regions | North America (GMA standard) | Europe, Asia, Australia |
To summarize in one sentence:
- Stringer Pallet: simple and economical, suitable for light loads or medium duty scenarios;
- Block Pallet: robust structure, suitable for heavy loads and adapted to modern logistics automation systems.
Forking direction: Two-Way vs. Four-Way Pallet
| Feature | Two-Way Pallet | Four-Way Pallet |
| Forklift Access | From only two opposite sides | From all four sides |
| Flexibility | Less flexible in warehouse operations | Higher flexibility and faster handling |
| Structure | Usually a stringer pallet | Usually a block pallet |
| Typical Use | Small warehouses, cost-sensitive situations | Automated systems, frequent handling, heavy loads |
Basic Structural Components of a Pallet
Although pallets may look simple, their structural design is quite sophisticated. The main components include:
1. Deck
Top Deck:
Used to directly support the load.
- Can be fully covered, slatted (gapped), or a mesh/grid design
- The smaller the spacing, the more evenly the load is distributed
Bottom Deck:
Provides stability and makes contact with the ground or forklift.
- Can be double-faced (double-sided pallets) or single-faced (single-sided pallets)
2. Stringers or Blocks
Stringers:
Long parallel boards that connect the top and bottom decks.
Blocks:
Multiple small cube-like blocks that support the entire structure.
- Offer greater strength
- Allow true four-way forklift entry
3. Notches
Used in two-way pallets to create side openings, allowing forklifts to enter from the sides—essentially enabling a quasi four-way entry.
4. Fasteners
Commonly nails, screws, or clips used to secure the decks and support components in place.
Overview of load-bearing capacity
| Load Type | Description | Common Wood Pallet Capacity |
| Static Load | Max weight when pallet is stationary | 3000–6000 kg |
| Dynamic Load | Max weight while being lifted or moved by a forklift | 1000–1500 kg |
| Racking Load | Max weight when pallet is placed on a rack (unsupported center) | 500–1200 kg |
How to choose the right pallet for your business?
Choosing a pallet based on the type of cargo
| Type of Goods | Recommended Pallet Type | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy goods (e.g., metal parts) | Wood pallet / Metal pallet | Strong load-bearing, impact resistance |
| Lightweight goods (e.g., electronics) | Plastic pallet | Lightweight, clean, ideal for delicate items |
| Liquids (e.g., barrels, chemicals) | Plastic / Leak-proof pallet | Non-absorbent, corrosion-resistant |
| Food / Pharmaceuticals | Hygienic plastic pallet | Easy to clean, contamination-free |
| Bagged goods (e.g., fertilizer, grain) | Wood / Double-face pallet | High stability for stacking |
Selection of pallets according to mode of transportation and storage
| Scenario | Recommended Pallet Type | Reason |
| Primarily forklift handling | Four-way entry pallet (Block) | Better maneuverability |
| Container shipping | Size should fit container | Maximizes space usage |
| Automated warehouses | High-precision plastic pallet | Standardized for systems |
| Rack storage | Double-face / reinforced pallet | Distributes racking load |
| One-time export use | Fumigated wood / Paper pallet | Compliant and cost-effective |
Advantages and considerations of customized pallets
Advantage:
- Size Matching: Tailor-made design according to the size of goods and stacking method to improve loading efficiency.
- Load-bearing accuracy: adjust the plate thickness or support structure according to the actual load.
- Industry-specific design: such as honeycomb structure, plus edge baffle, labeling slots, etc.
- Docking with automation equipment: Ensure seamless compatibility of pallets with conveyor lines, stacker cranes, etc.
Advantages of Palletized Transport
Improves Transport Efficiency
- Fast loading and unloading:
Pallets can be moved in whole units by forklifts, eliminating the need to handle individual boxes manually. - Higher loading density:
Standardized pallet sizes allow for efficient stacking, maximizing the use of truck or container space. - Facilitates transfer:
Palletized goods can be quickly transferred to warehouses, distribution centers, or retail stores, supporting multimodal transportation.
Example:
Using pallets can reduce a truck’s loading/unloading time from 1 hour to just 15 minutes—boosting efficiency by more than four times.
Reduces Risk of Cargo Damage
- Bundled transport:
Minimizes manual handling, reducing the risk of crushing, dropping, or other forms of damage. - Stable structure:
The pallet’s flat and evenly supporting base helps prevent tipping and damage to goods at the bottom. - Less vibration and impact:
Pallets can be combined with anti-slip mats, stretch film, and other packaging tools to increase load stability.
Particularly suitable for:
Fragile items, precision instruments, electronic products, and other high-value goods.
Saves Labor Costs
- Fewer workers required:
Forklifts can handle large volumes at once, allowing one worker to do the job that used to require several. - Improved workplace safety:
Reduces the risk of injuries caused by lifting and moving heavy items manually. - Standardized operations:
Palletized transport enables standardized and mechanized workflows, making large-scale operations more efficient.
Especially valuable in:
Regions with high labor costs (e.g., Europe and North America), where pallet transport is key to lowering logistics costs and improving productivity.
Supports Sustainability and Environmental Goals
- Reusable pallets:
Especially plastic and metal pallets, which can be reused hundreds of times—reducing packaging waste. - Less packaging material needed:
Compared to bulk or loose shipping, pallet transport reduces the use of disposable materials like cardboard boxes and tape. - Promotes a green supply chain:
Palletized transport supports automation and lean logistics, cutting down energy use and carbon emissions.
Widely adopted by:
Companies such as Amazon, IKEA, and Coca-Cola, which have integrated pallet transport into their green logistics strategies.
Conclusion
So in conclusion, I hope you can go through my content to choose the best pallet for you to help you successfully fulfill your business needs.
If you have more questions or needs about storage racking/display racking, you are also welcome to contact us! With over twenty years of global sales experience, we will not let you down!
