Pallet SizeGuide
Everything you need to know about pallet dimensions and specifications.
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Choosing the right pallet size is crucial for efficient logistics, safe handling, and cost optimization. This comprehensive guide covers everything from standard North American sizes to international ISO standards, helping you make informed decisions for your shipping and storage needs.
The most common pallet in North America is the 48" x 40" GMA pallet, which accounts for approximately 30% of all new wood pallets produced in the United States. However, different industries have adopted various sizes optimized for their specific products and logistics systems.
Standard Pallet Sizes
These are the most common pallet sizes used in North America, each optimized for specific industries.
| Size | Name | Industry | Common Use | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48" x 40"Most Common | GMA Pallet | Grocery Manufacturers Association | Grocery, retail, most common in North America | 2,500 lbs |
| 42" x 42" | Telecom Pallet | Telecom/Paint | Telecommunications, paint industry | 2,500 lbs |
| 48" x 48" | Drum Pallet | Automotive/Drums | Drums, barrels, automotive | 3,700 lbs |
| 48" x 42" | Chemical Pallet | Chemical/Beverage | Chemical and beverage industries | 2,500 lbs |
| 40" x 40" | Dairy Pallet | Dairy | Dairy industry | 2,500 lbs |
| 48" x 45" | Automotive Pallet | Automotive | Automotive industry | 3,000 lbs |
| 44" x 44" | Drum/Chemical Pallet | Chemical | 55-gallon drum handling | 2,800 lbs |
| 36" x 36" | Beverage Pallet | Beverage | Beverage industry | 2,500 lbs |
| 48" x 36" | Beverage Pallet | Beverage | Beverage bottling | 2,500 lbs |
| 35" x 45.5" | Military Pallet | Military | Military and defense applications | 2,500 lbs |
* Weight capacities are typical values and may vary based on pallet construction and condition
ISO Pallet Sizes
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) recognizes six pallet sizes for international trade.
Why ISO Standards Matter
For Exporters:
- Ensures compatibility with destination country logistics
- Optimizes container space utilization
- Reduces handling issues at international ports
For Importers:
- Fits existing racking and material handling equipment
- Simplifies reuse in existing pallet pool
- Reduces the need for re-palletizing
Understanding Pallet Entry
How a forklift can access the pallet affects versatility and use cases.
2-Way Entry
Fork lift entry from two sides only (the ends). Common in stringer pallets where solid boards run the length of the pallet, blocking entry from the sides.
Advantages
- Lower cost
- Stronger structure
- Ideal for racking
- Simple design
Considerations
- Limited maneuverability
- Requires more aisle space
- Not pallet jack friendly
4-Way Entry
Fork lift entry from all four sides. Achieved with block pallets or stringer pallets with notches cut into the stringers to allow fork entry.
Advantages
- Maximum flexibility
- Works with pallet jacks
- Easy maneuvering
- Less aisle space needed
Considerations
- Higher cost
- Notches may weaken structure
- More complex construction
Parts of a Pallet
Understanding pallet components helps you evaluate quality and identify repair needs.
Top Deck Boards
The upper surface where goods are placed. Can be flush (boards touching) or spaced.
Bottom Deck Boards
The lower surface that contacts the floor or racking. Provides stability and weight distribution.
Stringers
Long boards running lengthwise that connect top and bottom decks. Support the load and allow forklift entry on 2 sides.
Blocks
Solid wood or composite blocks used in block pallets. Allow 4-way forklift entry.
Lead Boards
The outer boards on each end of the deck. Often first to show wear and need replacement.
Notches
Cutouts in stringers that allow partial 4-way entry. Common on modified stringer pallets.
Chamfered Edges
Angled corners that make forklift entry easier and reduce product snag.
Understanding Weight Capacity
Pallet capacity depends on several factors including size, construction, condition, and how the load is supported.
Static Load
Weight capacity when pallet is stationary on a flat floor, weight evenly distributed across all stringers/blocks.
Dynamic Load
Weight capacity when being moved by forklift or pallet jack. Always lower than static due to movement stresses.
Racking Load
Weight capacity when supported only on edges in pallet racking. The most demanding application for pallets.
Factors Affecting Load Capacity
Wood Species
Hardwoods support more weight than softwoods
Board Thickness
Thicker deck boards increase capacity
Pallet Condition
New pallets stronger than used/repaired
Load Distribution
Centered, even loads maximize capacity
Wood Types Used in Pallets
Different wood species offer varying characteristics. Understanding these helps match the pallet to your application.
Southern Yellow Pine
Strong, widely available, cost-effective. Most common wood for pallets in the US.
Advantages:
- High strength
- Good nail holding
- Affordable
- Readily available
Considerations:
- Heavier than softwoods
- Can warp if not dried properly
Oak (Hardwood)
Very strong and durable. Heavier than softwoods but longer lasting.
Advantages:
- Excellent durability
- High load capacity
- Long lifespan
Considerations:
- Heavy
- More expensive
- Harder to repair
Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF)
Lightweight softwood blend. Good for lighter loads and export.
Advantages:
- Lightweight
- Cost-effective
- Easy to work with
Considerations:
- Lower strength
- Less durable
- Not for heavy loads
Poplar
Lightweight hardwood often used for lighter duty pallets.
Advantages:
- Light weight
- Good appearance
- Moderate strength
Considerations:
- Softer than other hardwoods
- Can mark easily
Pallets Per Container
How many pallets fit in different container and trailer sizes.
| Container Type | Inside Dimensions | Pallet Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 20' Standard Container | 19'4" x 7'8" x 7'10" | 10-11 standard (48x40) pallets single stacked |
| 40' Standard Container | 39'5" x 7'8" x 7'10" | 20-22 standard (48x40) pallets single stacked |
| 40' High Cube | 39'5" x 7'8" x 8'10" | 20-22 pallets with extra vertical space for stacking |
| 45' High Cube | 44'5" x 7'8" x 8'10" | 24-26 standard pallets single stacked |
| 53' Domestic Trailer | 52'6" x 8'2" x 9' | 26-30 standard pallets single stacked |
* Actual capacity depends on pallet orientation and double-stacking capability
Specialty Pallet Types
Beyond standard pallets, specialized designs solve unique logistics challenges.
Display Pallets
Designed to go directly on the retail floor. Often half the size of standard pallets.
Export Pallets
Heat-treated to ISPM-15 standards. Often lighter weight to reduce shipping costs.
Nestable Pallets
Designed to nest inside each other when empty, saving storage space.
Rackable Pallets
Built with extra support for racking applications where only the edges are supported.
Reversible Pallets
Both top and bottom decks are identical, allowing either side to face up.
Presswood Pallets
Made from compressed wood fibers. Lightweight and ISPM-15 exempt.
ISPM-15 Heat Treatment
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is an international phytosanitary measure that directly addresses the need to treat wood materials used in shipping to prevent the spread of invasive insects and plant diseases.
Pallets used for international export must be treated and marked with the IPPC stamp. The most common treatment is heat treatment (HT), where the core temperature of the wood must reach 56°C (132.8°F) for at least 30 minutes.
Countries Requiring ISPM-15:
All EU countries, Canada, China, Australia, Japan, Mexico, and most other nations require ISPM-15 compliant pallets for imports of wood packaging materials.
Need Help Choosing?
Our team can help you select the right pallet size and type for your application. We offer standard sizes in stock and can source specialty dimensions.