Pallet SizeGuide
Comprehensive reference for standard pallet dimensions, types, and specifications used worldwide. Your one-stop resource for pallet sizing.
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Standard Pallet Sizes
The 10 most common pallet sizes used in global logistics.
| Name | Inches | Millimeters |
|---|---|---|
| GMA / Grocery | 48" × 40" | 1219 × 1016 |
| ISO 1 | 47.24" × 39.37" | 1200 × 1000 |
| EUR / EPAL | 47.24" × 31.50" | 1200 × 800 |
| Australian | 45.87" × 45.87" | 1165 × 1165 |
| Automotive | 48" × 45" | 1219 × 1143 |
| Drum Pallet | 48" × 48" | 1219 × 1219 |
| Telecom | 42" × 42" | 1067 × 1067 |
| Beverage | 36" × 36" | 914 × 914 |
| Half Pallet | 48" × 20" | 1219 × 508 |
| Quarter Pallet | 24" × 20" | 610 × 508 |
GMA / Grocery
North AmericaMost common pallet in North America. Used by ~30% of all pallets produced.
ISO 1
Europe, AsiaThe most used pallet size worldwide.
EUR / EPAL
EuropeOfficial European pallet. Requires EPAL stamp for cross-border trade.
Australian
AustraliaSquare format optimized for Australian logistics infrastructure.
Automotive
North AmericaSlightly wider than GMA for automotive industry standard containers.
Drum Pallet
GlobalSquare format prevents drum overhang and ensures stable stacking.
Telecom
North AmericaSecond most common size in North America. Used extensively in telecom and chemical industries.
Beverage
North AmericaCompact size designed specifically for stacking beverage cases efficiently.
Half Pallet
North AmericaFits two per standard rack. Used for point-of-sale display.
Quarter Pallet
North AmericaFour fit on a standard GMA pallet. Perfect for in-store displays.
Pallet Structural Types
Understanding pallet construction helps you choose the right type for your needs.
Stringer Pallet
Uses two or three parallel stringers (2×4 or 3×4 lumber) to support the deck boards. The most common and economical design.
Advantages
- + Lower cost
- + Lighter weight
- + Easy to repair
Considerations
- − Limited to 2-way entry (unless notched)
- − Lower load capacity than block
Block Pallet
Uses blocks of solid wood or compressed wood between the top and bottom deck boards. Provides true 4-way forklift entry.
Advantages
- + True 4-way entry
- + Higher load capacity
- + Better for automated systems
Considerations
- − Higher cost
- − Heavier
- − More complex to repair
Double-Face Pallet
Has deck boards on both the top and bottom. Available in reversible (both sides usable) and non-reversible configurations.
Advantages
- + Increased stability
- + Protects bottom of goods above
- + Reversible options
Considerations
- − Heavier
- − Higher material cost
- − More difficult to inspect
Wing Pallet
Deck boards extend beyond the stringers or blocks, creating "wings" that allow sling or clamp handling.
Advantages
- + Compatible with clamp trucks
- + Better for roll or drum loads
- + Stable edges
Considerations
- − Not compatible with standard racking
- − Prone to edge damage
Understanding Load Capacity
Three types of load capacity ratings every buyer should know.
Static Load
The maximum weight a pallet can support while stationary on a flat surface. This is the highest load rating.
Example: A GMA pallet has a static load capacity of approximately 5,000 lbs.
Dynamic Load
The maximum weight a pallet can support while being moved by a forklift or pallet jack. Always lower than static.
Example: The same GMA pallet has a dynamic load capacity of approximately 2,500 lbs.
Racking Load
The maximum weight a pallet can support when stored on warehouse racking (supported only at the edges). The lowest rating.
Example: The GMA pallet has a racking load capacity of approximately 2,000 lbs.
How to Choose the Right Pallet Size
Follow these five steps to select the perfect pallet for your application.
Measure Your Product Dimensions
Start by measuring your product's length, width, height, and total weight. Products should not overhang the pallet edges by more than 1 inch on any side. Calculate the total weight of all items on the pallet including packaging to ensure you stay within load capacity limits.
Determine Your Shipping Method
Your shipping method dictates pallet size. Standard 53-foot trailers fit two rows of 48×40 pallets (26 per truck). Shipping containers vary: a 20-foot container fits 10 GMA pallets, while a 40-foot fits 20. Air freight has strict size and weight limits — consult your carrier.
Check Racking Compatibility
If pallets will be stored on warehouse racking, measure the beam spacing of your racks. The pallet must sit securely on the beams with at least 2 inches of overhang on each side. Standard pallet racking is designed for 48×40 GMA pallets.
Consider Industry Standards
Many industries have standard pallet sizes that streamline supply chains. Grocery and retail use GMA 48×40. Automotive uses 48×45. European trade requires EUR 1200×800. Using the industry standard simplifies logistics and reduces cost.
Factor in Handling Equipment
Your forklift type determines entry requirements. Standard forklifts need at least 3.5 inches of clearance between deck boards. Pallet jacks require a stringer or block pallet with bottom deck boards. Automated systems often require block pallets with true 4-way entry.
Industry-Specific Recommendations
Pallet recommendations tailored to the needs of six major industries.
Grocery / Retail
Heat treated recommended. GMA specification is the universal standard for grocery supply chains. Grade A for retail display, Grade B for warehouse distribution.
Automotive
Wider format accommodates automotive parts bins. Block construction provides 4-way entry required by automated assembly lines. High dynamic load capacity essential.
Pharmaceutical
Plastic pallets eliminate splinter and contamination risk. Nestable design saves warehouse space. FDA compliant and compatible with clean room environments.
Agriculture
High volume usage makes cost a priority. Grade B and C pallets provide adequate strength for produce at a lower price point. Custom sizes for specialty crops.
Export / International
International shipments require heat-treated pallets with IPPC stamp. EUR pallets for European destinations, ISO for global. Non-compliant shipments will be rejected at customs.
E-Commerce
Full pallets for warehouse distribution centers. Half pallets (48×20) ideal for smaller shipments and last-mile delivery. Lightweight options reduce shipping costs.
Pallet Terminology Glossary
Essential terms every pallet buyer and user should know.
Stringer
A horizontal support board running the full length of the pallet, typically a 2×4 or 3×4 piece of lumber. Stringers are the primary structural element in stringer-style pallets.
Block
A solid wood or compressed wood block placed between the top and bottom deck boards. Block pallets use 6 to 12 blocks and provide true 4-way forklift entry.
Deck Board
The flat boards that form the top or bottom surface of the pallet. Top deck boards support the load directly, while bottom deck boards provide stability and racking support.
Lead Board
The first deck board at the fork entry side of the pallet. Lead boards take the most abuse from forklifts and are the most commonly replaced component during repairs.
Notched Stringer
A stringer with cutouts (notches) on the sides that allow a forklift to enter from all four directions, converting a 2-way stringer pallet into partial 4-way entry.
Chamfered
A beveled or angled edge on the bottom deck boards or stringers that makes it easier for pallet jacks and forklifts to slide underneath the pallet.
Wing
A deck board that extends beyond the outer edge of the stringer or block. Wing pallets are used for clamp handling and loads that benefit from extra edge support.
Flush
A pallet design where the deck boards are cut even with the outer edges of the stringers or blocks. Flush pallets fit more precisely into racking and containers.
Reversible
A pallet that can be used on either side because both the top and bottom decks are identical. Reversible pallets last longer because wear is distributed across both surfaces.
Racking Load
The maximum weight a pallet can safely support when stored on warehouse racking, where it is supported only at its edges. This is always the lowest load capacity rating.
Dynamic Load
The maximum weight a pallet can safely support while being moved by a forklift or pallet jack. Dynamic load capacity is lower than static but higher than racking load.
Static Load
The maximum weight a pallet can safely support while sitting stationary on a flat, solid surface. This is the highest load capacity rating because the weight is fully supported.
Detailed Size Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of the five most requested pallet size categories with full specifications.
| Specification | GMA Standard | EUR/EPAL | Half Pallet | Quarter Pallet | Oversized |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 48" x 40" | 47.24" x 31.50" | 48" x 20" | 24" x 20" | 60" x 48" + |
| Millimeters | 1219 x 1016 | 1200 x 800 | 1219 x 508 | 610 x 508 | 1524 x 1219+ |
| Deck Area (sq ft) | 13.33 | 10.33 | 6.67 | 3.33 | 20.00+ |
| Static Load (lbs) | 5,000 | 4,400 | 2,500 | 1,200 | 8,000-15,000 |
| Dynamic Load (lbs) | 2,500 | 2,750 | 1,250 | 600 | 4,000-8,000 |
| Racking Load (lbs) | 2,000 | 2,000 | 1,000 | N/A | 3,000-6,000 |
| Pallet Weight | 33-48 lbs | 45-55 lbs | 18-24 lbs | 8-12 lbs | 65-120+ lbs |
| Fork Entry | 4-way (notched) | 4-way (block) | 4-way | 2-way or 4-way | 4-way (block) |
| Construction | Stringer | Block | Stringer | Stringer or Block | Heavy-duty block |
| Per Truck (53-ft) | 26 | 33 | 52 | 104 | 14-18 |
| Typical Cost (recycled) | $4-12 | $8-15 | $3-7 | $2-5 | $25-75+ |
| Primary Region | North America | Europe | North America | Retail/Display | Industrial |
Load Capacity by Pallet Type
Comprehensive load capacity reference for every major pallet construction and material type.
| Pallet Type | Static Load | Dynamic Load | Racking Load |
|---|---|---|---|
| Softwood Stringer (48x40) | 5,000 lbs | 2,500 lbs | 2,000 lbs |
| Hardwood Stringer (48x40) | 7,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Softwood Block (48x40) | 6,000 lbs | 3,000 lbs | 2,500 lbs |
| Hardwood Block (48x40) | 10,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| EUR/EPAL Block | 4,400 lbs | 2,750 lbs | 2,000 lbs |
| Double-Deck Hardwood | 12,000 lbs | 6,000 lbs | 4,000 lbs |
| Plastic (Nestable HDPE) | 5,000 lbs | 2,500 lbs | Not rated |
| Plastic (Rackable HDPE) | 8,000 lbs | 4,000 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Presswood (Molded) | 3,000 lbs | 1,500 lbs | Not rated |
| Custom Heavy-Duty | 15,000+ lbs | 8,000+ lbs | 6,000+ lbs |
Important Note on Load Capacities
The load capacities listed above are typical values for new pallets in good condition. Actual capacity depends on many factors including wood species, moisture content, board thickness, fastener type and spacing, load distribution, and pallet condition. Recycled pallets may have reduced capacity compared to new units. Always verify load requirements with your pallet supplier and conduct visual inspections before loading. When in doubt, choose a higher-rated pallet or contact our engineering team for a capacity assessment.
Recommended Uses Per Size
A practical guide to which pallet size works best for specific applications and products.
48" x 40" (GMA)
Grocery & Retail
Industry standard. Fits all major retailer requirements (Walmart, Costco, Target). Optimized for standard racking.
General Manufacturing
Versatile size for boxes, cartons, and shrink-wrapped goods. Compatible with all standard handling equipment.
Distribution Centers
Designed for 53-ft trailers (26 per truck). Maximum cube utilization in standard warehouse layouts.
48" x 48" (Drum)
Drums & Barrels
Square format prevents drum overhang. Fits four 55-gallon drums per pallet perfectly.
Chemical Industry
Accommodates chemical drums, IBCs, and cylindrical containers. Spill containment options available.
Bulk Materials
Ideal for large, heavy items that need extra deck area. Common in steel and metals industries.
42" x 42" (Telecom)
Telecommunications
Standard for telecom equipment racks and server components. Fits specialized telecom shipping containers.
Paint & Coatings
Accommodates standard 5-gallon pail stacking patterns efficiently with no wasted space.
Chemical Containers
Popular for smaller drums (30-gallon) and square chemical containers. Second most common US pallet.
47" x 31.5" (EUR)
European Export
Required for the EPAL pool system in Europe. Optimized for European truck dimensions and warehouse racking.
Pharmaceutical
Widely used in European pharma supply chains. EPAL quality standards ensure consistency.
Consumer Goods
Standard for European retail distribution. Fits European container sizes and store aisle widths.
48" x 20" (Half Pallet)
Retail Display
Fits directly into retail aisle endcaps and floor displays. Two half pallets equal one standard rack position.
E-Commerce Fulfillment
Ideal for smaller shipments and partial truckloads. Reduces wasted space in mixed-SKU shipping.
Promotional Goods
Perfect for seasonal displays, point-of-sale setups, and promotional product launches.
24" x 20" (Quarter Pallet)
In-Store Displays
Four fit on a standard GMA pallet. Used for sampling stations, checkout displays, and small product showcases.
Specialty Foods
Common for artisan products, specialty foods, and small-batch goods with limited shelf space.
Trade Shows
Portable, lightweight, and easy to ship. Perfect for trade show booths and marketing events.
Container Compatibility Guide
How many pallets fit in each type of shipping container, and how to maximize cube utilization.
| Container Type | Interior Dimensions | GMA 48x40 | EUR 1200x800 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20-ft Standard | 19'4" x 7'8" x 7'10" | 10 | 11 |
| 40-ft Standard | 39'5" x 7'8" x 7'10" | 20 | 23 |
| 40-ft High Cube | 39'5" x 7'8" x 8'10" | 20 | 23 |
| 45-ft High Cube | 44'5" x 7'8" x 8'10" | 24 | 26 |
| 53-ft Truck Trailer | 52'6" x 8'2" x 9'0" | 26 | 33 |
Loading Pattern: 20-ft Container
For GMA 48x40 pallets: load 5 pallets in a row with the 40" side facing the container door, then 5 more in a second row. This gives 10 pallets per layer. Standard ceiling height allows 1 layer of loaded pallets up to 52" tall (pallet + goods). For taller loads, the 20-ft container provides 94" of interior height.
Loading Pattern: 40-ft Container
For GMA 48x40 pallets: the most efficient pattern is 10 pallets per row (40" side forward), 2 rows deep. This gives 20 pallets per layer. A 40-ft high-cube container provides 106" of interior height, allowing double-stacking of shorter loads. EUR pallets can achieve 23 per layer due to their narrower width.
Loading Pattern: 53-ft Trailer
For GMA 48x40 pallets: load in a "pinwheel" or "turned" pattern — alternating between 48" side forward and 40" side forward to maximize floor space. Standard pattern: 13 pallets on each side = 26 total. Proper load securing with load bars, airbags, or strapping is essential to prevent shifting during transit.
Racking Compatibility
Ensure your pallets work safely and efficiently with your warehouse racking system.
Selective Pallet Racking
The most common warehouse racking type. Provides direct access to every pallet position. Pallets sit on two parallel horizontal beams and are accessed from the aisle side.
Standard beam spacing (42"-44") is designed for GMA pallets with 3-4" overhang on each side. The 48" dimension spans the beams, providing optimal support.
Fits most standard racking with slight adjustment. The narrower 800mm (31.5") width sits between standard beams, but beam spacing may need narrowing for optimal support.
Fits in standard racking but occupies more depth. Verify rear clearance to back-to-back racks. May require wider aisle spacing for forklift turning radius.
Half pallets are too narrow to span standard beams. Use wire decking, shelf panels, or cross-bars to support half pallets. Two half pallets fit in one standard beam position.
Drive-In / Drive-Through Racking
High-density storage where forklifts drive into the racking structure. Pallets sit on continuous rails rather than beams. Best for large quantities of identical products.
Rails are spaced for the 40" pallet dimension (stringer direction). Pallets slide along rails and must be consistent in size. Notched stringers recommended for smooth entry.
Block pallets are preferred for drive-in racking because they provide consistent rail contact at all four corners. The 4-way entry facilitates loading and unloading.
Stringer pallets work but must be oriented with stringers perpendicular to the rails. The bottom deck boards ride on the rails. Ensure bottom boards are in good condition.
Push-Back Racking
Pallets are loaded from the aisle and pushed back on inclined carts or rollers. LIFO (last in, first out) system. Allows 2-6 pallets deep per position.
Carts and rollers are sized for GMA pallets. Pallet quality is critical — warped or damaged pallets can jam the push-back mechanism.
Block pallets provide the most consistent contact with push-back carts. Flat bottom surfaces ensure smooth rolling. 4-way entry simplifies loading.
Push-back systems are built for specific pallet sizes. Non-standard pallets require custom cart and rail dimensions. Contact the rack manufacturer.
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS)
Fully automated racking systems where robotic cranes or shuttles move pallets. Highest storage density and throughput. Requires extremely consistent pallet quality.
Most AS/RS systems are designed for GMA block pallets. Block construction provides the consistent dimensions, flat surfaces, and 4-way entry that automated systems require.
Many European AS/RS systems are built for EPAL pallets. The EPAL quality control system ensures the dimensional consistency that automation demands.
Stringer pallets often do not meet the dimensional tolerances required by AS/RS systems. Notched stringers can catch on conveyor systems and cause jams.
Pallet Material Comparison
Wood, plastic, presswood, and metal pallets compared across key performance factors.
Softwood
Cost
$4-15
Life
3-5 years (15-20 trips)
Weight
30-48 lbs
Strengths
- + Lowest cost
- + Widely available
- + Easy to repair
- + Recyclable
- + Accepted everywhere
Weaknesses
- - Moisture sensitive
- - Can harbor pests
- - Splinters
- - Heavier than alternatives
- - ISPM-15 treatment required for export
Hardwood
Cost
$12-30
Life
5-10 years (30+ trips)
Weight
45-85 lbs
Strengths
- + Very strong
- + Long-lasting
- + High load capacity
- + Repairable
- + Suitable for heavy industrial use
Weaknesses
- - Expensive
- - Very heavy
- - Harder to repair
- - Slower growing trees
- - ISPM-15 treatment required for export
Plastic (HDPE)
Cost
$25-100
Life
10+ years (100+ trips)
Weight
15-55 lbs
Strengths
- + Hygienic
- + ISPM-15 exempt
- + Consistent dimensions
- + Lightweight
- + No splinters or nails
Weaknesses
- - High upfront cost
- - Cannot be repaired
- - Oil-based product
- - Slippery surface
- - Burns hotter in fires
Presswood
Cost
$8-18
Life
1-3 trips
Weight
18-25 lbs
Strengths
- + Very lightweight
- + ISPM-15 exempt
- + Nestable
- + Made from recycled wood
- + Low shipping cost
Weaknesses
- - Low load capacity
- - Not repairable
- - Single-use/limited life
- - Moisture sensitive
- - Not suitable for racking
Custom Size Ordering Guide
Step-by-step process for ordering custom-sized pallets built to your exact specifications.
Define Your Product Requirements
Start by documenting: the exact dimensions of the products or containers being palletized (length x width x height), the total weight of a fully loaded pallet, whether products overhang the pallet edges (and by how much), and how many units per pallet layer. Sketch the loading pattern if possible — this helps our engineering team optimize deck board spacing.
Information We Need
- Product dimensions (L x W x H) for each item on the pallet
- Total weight per pallet including all packaging
- Loading pattern (how items are arranged on the pallet)
- Stacking requirements (number of loaded pallets high)
- Any special product considerations (fragile, liquid, temperature-sensitive)
Specify Handling and Storage Conditions
How the pallet will be handled determines structural requirements: forklifts need adequate fork-entry clearance (minimum 3.5 inches), pallet jacks require bottom deck boards, automated systems need extremely tight dimensional tolerances, and crane lifting requires reinforced attachment points. Storage method matters too — floor stacking has different requirements than beam racking.
Information We Need
- Forklift type: standard counterbalance, reach truck, turret truck
- Pallet jack access needed? (requires bottom boards)
- Racking type: selective, drive-in, push-back, cantilever, AS/RS
- Floor stacking? How many pallets high?
- Automated conveyor compatibility needed?
Choose Material and Treatment
Select the right material based on your application. Softwood (pine, spruce) is the most cost-effective for general use. Hardwood (oak, maple) provides maximum strength for heavy loads. Plastic eliminates contamination risk for food and pharma. Presswood is ultralight for air freight. If shipping internationally, ISPM-15 heat treatment is mandatory for all solid wood. Kiln-dried lumber is recommended for moisture-sensitive products.
Information We Need
- Wood species preference (or we recommend based on application)
- Heat treatment required for international shipping? (ISPM-15)
- Kiln-dried lumber needed? (moisture < 19%)
- Food-grade requirements? (FDA/SQF/BRCGS compliance)
- Anti-mold treatment for humid environments?
Review Engineering and Approve Design
Our engineering team creates a detailed design using the NWPCA Pallet Design System (PDS) software, which predicts performance based on your specifications. You receive CAD drawings showing all dimensions, board spacing, fastener placement, and material callouts. We review the design with you, make any adjustments, and obtain your written approval before beginning production. For critical applications, we build and test prototypes first.
Information We Need
- CAD drawings with all dimensions and tolerances
- PDS analysis confirming load capacity meets requirements
- Material specification sheet
- Prototype option for critical or high-volume orders
- Written approval before production begins
Production, Quality Control, and Delivery
Once approved, production begins. Lead times are typically 5-10 business days depending on complexity and quantity. Every custom order undergoes quality inspection: dimensional accuracy (within 1/4 inch tolerance), fastener security, structural integrity, and material condition. We package custom pallets with care during delivery to prevent damage. For ongoing orders, we keep your specifications on file for fast reordering.
Information We Need
- Lead time: 5-10 business days (standard), 3-5 days (repeat orders)
- Minimum order: 50 units (below 50, setup fee applies)
- 100% dimensional inspection on first production run
- Random sampling inspection on subsequent runs
- Specifications stored on file for easy reordering
Truck Loading Optimization
Maximize the number of pallets per truck to reduce shipping costs and carbon footprint.
53-ft Dry Van Trailer
52'6" L x 8'2" W x 9'0" H
Standard loading: 13 pallets per side, alternating orientation (pinwheel pattern). The 48" dimension spans the width of the trailer, and the 40" dimension runs along the length. This pattern fills the full 52'6" length with approximately 2" of clearance.
Pro Tips
Ensure pallets are flush against trailer walls. Use load bars or airbags to prevent shifting. Maximum total payload is typically 44,000 lbs (including pallets).
48-ft Flatbed Trailer
48'0" L x 8'6" W x No Height Limit
Flatbed trailers offer wider width (8'6" vs 8'2") and no height restriction but require load securing with straps, tarps, or coil racks. Standard pattern: 12 pallets per side. Double-stacking is possible for lighter loads, increasing capacity to 48 pallets.
Pro Tips
All loads must be secured per DOT regulations (49 CFR 393). Use minimum one strap per 10 linear feet of load. Tarps required for weather protection. Check bridge weight limits for heavy loads.
20-ft Shipping Container
19'4" L x 7'8" W x 7'10" H
Load with 40" side facing the container door. Five pallets fit per row, two rows deep. The narrower interior width (7'8") means GMA pallets fit tightly with only 4" total clearance. Some shippers use EUR pallets (31.5" wide) for better access.
Pro Tips
Container floor must be level and dry. Use container desiccants to control moisture during ocean transit. Secure loads with container bars and ratchet straps. Maximum payload varies by container age and condition.
40-ft Shipping Container
39'5" L x 7'8" W x 7'10" H
Same width as 20-ft but double the length. Load 10 pallets per row, two rows deep = 20 pallets. For high-cube containers (8'10" interior height), double-stacking is possible for loads under 48" tall, potentially doubling capacity to 40 pallets.
Pro Tips
Weight distribution is critical for ocean containers — heavy pallets near the bottom and center. Container weight limits are enforced at ports, and overweight containers may be rejected. Verify total weight including pallets.
Pallet Weight by Size
Empty pallet weights for all common sizes to help you calculate total shipping weight accurately.
| Pallet Size | Softwood Stringer | Hardwood Block | Plastic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48 x 40" | 33-48 lbs | 55-70 lbs | 15-45 lbs |
| 42 x 42" | 35-50 lbs | 55-75 lbs | 18-40 lbs |
| 48 x 48" | 40-55 lbs | 60-80 lbs | 20-50 lbs |
| 48 x 45" | 38-52 lbs | 58-78 lbs | 18-48 lbs |
| 36 x 36" | 25-35 lbs | 40-55 lbs | 12-30 lbs |
| 47.24 x 31.50" (EUR) | 35-45 lbs | 45-55 lbs | 15-35 lbs |
| 47.24 x 39.37" (ISO) | 38-50 lbs | 55-70 lbs | 18-42 lbs |
| 48 x 20" (Half) | 18-24 lbs | 28-38 lbs | 10-20 lbs |
| 24 x 20" (Quarter) | 8-12 lbs | 14-20 lbs | 5-10 lbs |
| 60 x 48" (Oversized) | 55-75 lbs | 80-110 lbs | 35-65 lbs |
Which Size Is Right for You?
Answer these questions to narrow down the ideal pallet size for your application.
Are you shipping to Europe or within the European Union?
Use EUR/EPAL pallets (1200 x 800mm). They are required for the EPAL pool system and optimized for European logistics infrastructure. Must carry the EPAL stamp for pool participation.
Continue to next question.
Are you in the grocery, retail, or general consumer goods industry in North America?
Use 48x40 GMA pallets. This is the universal standard accepted by all major retailers, warehouses, and logistics providers. Over 30% of all pallets produced in North America are this size.
Continue to next question.
Are you shipping drums, barrels, or cylindrical containers?
Use 48x48 square pallets. The square footprint prevents drums from overhanging the edges and ensures stable stacking. Four standard 55-gallon drums fit perfectly.
Continue to next question.
Do you need pallets for retail point-of-sale displays?
Use half pallets (48x20) for endcap displays or quarter pallets (24x20) for checkout and sampling stations. These sizes are designed to fit standard retail aisle widths and store fixtures.
Continue to next question.
Are your products oversized, extra heavy, or oddly shaped?
You likely need custom-sized pallets. Contact us with your product dimensions, weight, and handling requirements, and our engineering team will design the optimal pallet.
The 48x40 GMA pallet is your best default choice. It works for the widest range of applications, is the most widely available, and offers the best pricing due to its ubiquity.
Not Sure Which Size You Need?
Our team has decades of experience helping businesses find the right pallet for every application. Tell us about your products, shipping methods, and storage requirements, and we will recommend the perfect size, material, and grade — plus provide a competitive quote.