Shipping pallets are essential for transporting goods efficiently. But with so many options available, how do you know which pallet is right for your needs? This guide covers everything you need to know about pallet sizes, materials, and standards, from ISO to North American and European pallets.
What is a Shipping Pallet?
A shipping pallet, also known as a skid or platform, is a flat structure used to support goods during transportation. It’s lifted by forklifts, pallet jacks, and other lifting equipment. Pallets typically carry up to 1000 kg (2200 lbs) of load and are made from materials like wood, plastic, metal, and more.
Pallets increase handling and storage efficiency by serving as a stable base for unit loads. Goods are often secured to the pallet with strapping, shrink wrap, or stretch film during shipping.
Materials Used in Shipping Pallets
Pallets are made from various materials, each offering distinct advantages based on your needs.
1. Wood Pallets
Wood is the most common material for pallets, making up a large portion of pallet production. Softwood pallets are inexpensive and often treated as disposable. These pallets are simple in design and can be lifted from both sides.
2. Plastic Pallets
Plastic pallets are durable and can withstand 100 or more uses. Made from materials like HDPE or recycled PET, they resist weathering, corrosion, and chemicals. They are lighter, easier to disinfect, and safer for international shipping because they don’t require fumigation. Plastic pallets are ideal for industries that need clean, reusable pallets.
3. Paper Pallets
Also known as “eco pallets,” these are lighter and often used for transporting light loads. They are eco-friendly, recyclable, and easy to dispose of. Paper pallets are a cost-effective solution that saves on freight costs and are exempt from certain international shipping requirements, making them a popular choice for sustainable packaging.
4. Steel Pallets
Steel pallets are extremely durable and suitable for heavy-duty applications. They are often used in military and industrial environments where strength and longevity are required. Although more expensive than wood pallets, steel pallets offer excellent protection, can be disinfected easily, and have a long lifespan. They are best suited for closed-loop systems.
5. Aluminum Pallets
Aluminum pallets are a strong yet lightweight alternative to wood or plastic pallets. They are resistant to corrosion and weather, making them ideal for outdoor storage or air transport. These pallets are commonly used for military shipments and industries with demanding transport conditions.
Common Shipping Pallet Sizes
Pallet sizes vary globally, and while there are several common sizes, there is no universal standard. Different regions and industries may use various sizes based on their needs.
Standard North American Pallet (GMA Pallet)
The most widely used pallet in North America is the 48 x 40-inch GMA pallet, standardized by the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA).
● Size: 48 inches x 40 inches (1219 mm x 1016 mm)
● Weight: 33–48 lbs (15–22 kg)
● Static Load Capacity: 2.7 metric tons
● Dynamic Load Capacity: 0.91 metric tons
This standard pallet is commonly used in grocery stores and various other industries.
Other Common North American Sizes
● 42 x 42 inches (1067 x 1067 mm) – Used in telecommunications and paints.
● 48 x 48 inches (1219 x 1219 mm) – Often used for drums and large items.
● 48 x 36 inches (1219 x 914 mm) – Common for beverages and packaging.
ISO Pallets
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) recognizes six standard pallet sizes. These are often used in intercontinental shipping for consistency across borders.
| Size (Width × Length) mm | Size (Width × Length) inches | Wasteboard, ISO Packing Box | Most Commonly Used Regions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1016 × 1219 | 40.00 × 48.00 | 3.7% (40 inches ISO with 20 sheets per ream) | North America |
| 1000 × 1200 | 39.37 × 47.24 | 6.7% | Europe, Asia; similar to 40″ × 48″. Area equal to 3 European reams. |
| 1165 × 1165 | 45.9 × 45.9 | 8.1% | Australia, Asia |
| 1067 × 1067 | 42.00 × 42.00 | 11.5% | North America, Europe, Asia |
| 1100 × 1100 | 43.30 × 43.30 | 14% | Asia |
| 800 × 1200 | 31.50 × 47.24 | 15.2% | Europe; Suitable for many stores. Area equal to 1 European ream. |
North American Pallets
Among the top pallets used in North America, the most commonly used is the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) pallet, which accounts for 30% of all new wooden pallets produced in the United States. ISO also recognizes the GMA pallet as one of its six standard sizes.
| Size (Width × Length) mm | Size (Width × Length) inches | Production Ranking | Industries Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1016 × 1219 | 40 × 48 | 1 | Retail stores, others |
| 1067 × 1067 | 42 × 42 | 2 | Telecom, oil painting |
| 1219 × 1219 | 48 × 48 | 3 | Rice |
| 1219 × 1016 | 48 × 40 | 4 | Military, water treatment |
| 1219 × 1067 | 48 × 42 | 5 | Chemicals, food |
| 1016 × 1016 | 40 × 40 | 6 | Dairy products |
| 1219 × 1143 | 48 × 45 | 7 | Automobiles |
| 1118 × 1118 | 44 × 44 | 8 | Chemical packaging |
| 914 × 914 | 36 × 36 | 9 | Drinks |
| 1219 × 914 | 48 × 36 | 10 | Food, wood, packaging paper |
| 889 × 1156 | 35 × 45.5 | Unknown | Military 1/2 ISO packing box, fits 36″ standard door |
| 2240 × 2740 | 88 × 108 | Unknown | Military air freight (463L system) |
| 1219 × 508 | 48 × 20 | Unknown | Retail sales |
European Pallets (EPAL)
EPAL pallets are specifically designed for EU export specifications. They are widely recognized and come in several standard sizes.
| European Pallet Type | Size (Length × Width × Height) | ISO Pallet Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 European | 800 mm × 1200 mm × 144 mm | ISO1, same as European size. Pallet weight: 20–25 kg. Load weight: 2490 kg. |
| 2 European | 1200 mm × 1000 mm × 144 mm | ISO2. Pallet weight: 33 kg. Load weight: 1470 kg. |
| 3 European | 1000 mm × 1200 mm × 144 mm | Pallet weight: 29 kg. Load weight: 1920 kg. |
| 6 European | 800 mm × 600 mm × 144 mm | ISO0, half the size of the European pallet. Pallet weight: 9.5 kg. Safe load weight: 500 kg. |
| 4 European | 600 mm × 400 mm × 144 mm | One quarter of the size of the European pallet. |
| 5 European | 400 mm × 300 mm × 144 mm | One eighth of the size of the European pallet. |
Conclusion
Understanding the different types and sizes of shipping pallets is essential for choosing the right pallet for your products. Whether you are shipping domestically or internationally, the right pallet ensures safe transportation and efficient storage. With a variety of materials and sizes available, you can select the best pallet for your specific needs. Whether it’s a plastic, wood, or metal pallet, knowing the correct dimensions and material type will help you streamline your logistics and protect your goods.
