Standard Pallet Sizes: Dimensions, Weight & Shipping Guide

Standard pallet size chart

Select any size to see it drawn to scale against a second pallet in the comparison tool below.

What do pallet dimensions include?

These measurements describe the empty pallet footprint. Measure the loaded unit separately, including the pallet, product and any overhang. Both 48 × 40 and 40 × 48 describe the same rectangle when rotated, but stringer direction and fork entry can affect equipment compatibility.

What does GMA pallet mean?

GMA refers to the Grocery Manufacturers Association. Today the term is often used broadly for 48 × 40 pallets. A matching footprint alone does not establish construction, condition or load rating.[1]

Euro pallet sizes and specifications

A standard EPAL Euro pallet, also called EPAL 1, is a reusable wooden block pallet used extensively in European supply chains. Its specifications are defined by the European Pallet Association.[2]

These figures apply to the EPAL 1 design. They are not universal specifications for every pallet described as “Euro size.” The pallet’s condition and the intended support and loading arrangement still matter.[2]

U.S. pallets versus Euro pallets

A U.S. 48 × 40 pallet is about 8.5 inches wider than an EPAL Euro pallet when their longer sides are aligned. That difference affects carton layouts and floor space. It can also change whether the pallet has adequate support in a particular rack.

Before receiving imported goods, confirm whether the destination accepts Euro pallets, whether equipment can handle them and whether the product must be transferred to another pallet. Plan any repalletizing before arrival so labor, replacement pallets and delivery timing can be coordinated.

Are all European pallets the same size?

No. EPAL 1 measures 1,200 × 800 mm, while EPAL 2 measures 1,200 × 1,000 mm. EPAL also publishes specifications for half pallets and other load carriers. Request the actual dimensions and pallet type instead of relying only on “European pallet” as a description.[3]

Do pallets need treatment for international shipping?

Regulated solid wood packaging entering the United States must meet applicable ISPM 15 treatment and marking requirements, subject to specific exemptions. Export requirements depend on the destination. Confirm the route and packaging requirements with your supplier and shipping partners before loading.[4][5]

Pallet size and treatment are separate requirements. A 48 × 40 pallet may need compliant treatment for an international movement, while a Euro sized pallet is not automatically compliant simply because of its dimensions.

Types of pallets by material

Pallet material affects tare weight, durability, cleaning, repair options and total cost. Choose a platform around the product, handling equipment, storage conditions and receiving requirements. Footprint and material are separate choices: a 48 × 40 pallet can be made from wood, plastic or other materials.

Capacities and suitability depend on the specific design. These categories do not establish a universal rating.[4][9][13][14][15]

Wood pallets and plastic pallets

Wood is a practical option for many shipping networks, especially when pallet availability and repair options matter. Plastic can suit repeated use and systems that benefit from consistent dimensions. Compare the complete operating cost, including cleaning, damage, retrieval, loss and receiver acceptance, rather than purchase price alone.

Pallet material versus pallet construction

Block and stringer describe construction, not material. Block pallets support the deck on blocks while stringer pallets use lengthwise support members. Two way and four way entry describe access for handling equipment. Check forklift and pallet jack compatibility separately.

iGPS plastic pallets and pallet pooling

iGPS Logistics provides rentable, 100% recyclable plastic pallets and describes itself as North America’s leading plastic pallet pooling provider. Its system offers an alternative to purchasing and managing a separate pallet inventory.[10][11]

Pallet pooling is a rental and reuse model. Platforms circulate through participating shipping and receiving locations and return through the provider’s network. It is an ownership and service arrangement rather than a separate pallet material, and wood pallets can also be pooled.

Source: the current iGPS pallet specification page, which lists Gen 6 and Gen 6.1 alongside earlier models. Dimensions and weights are approximate. iGPS notes that loading method, temperature, storage duration and support conditions affect use, so confirm the model and application with the provider.[12]

Weight savings depend on the comparison

iGPS states that its pallets can be up to 35% lighter than typical multi use wood pallets. This is a provider comparison with a particular wood pallet category. An iGPS plastic pallet is not necessarily lighter than every wooden pallet, including lightweight GMA style designs.[10]

Tracking and warehouse compatibility

Embedded RFID tags and readable identifiers support visibility when connected to the appropriate readers, software and processes. RFID does not by itself provide continuous GPS location updates. Confirm integration and testing requirements for any automated storage and retrieval system, commonly called ASRS.

Before selecting a pool, confirm destination acceptance, charges, transfer records, pickup arrangements and loss responsibilities. Recyclable pallets also need an appropriate recovery channel at the end of service.

How much does a pallet weigh?

An empty pallet’s weight is its tare weight. The weight of a loaded pallet includes the product, the pallet and any packaging or securing materials. Always distinguish between these figures when requesting a freight quote.

Wood species, moisture, construction, repairs and material all affect tare weight. A shared footprint does not mean two pallets weigh the same amount.

How to calculate loaded pallet weight

Example: 1,800 lb of product plus a 40 lb pallet plus 10 lb of wrap and packaging equals 1,850 lb total. The 40 lb pallet is an example, not a standard weight to use for every shipment. Try your own numbers in the calculator below.

How much weight can a pallet hold?

There is no single weight limit for all 48 × 40 pallets. Use the supplier’s rating for the specific design, condition, load distribution and handling arrangement. The pallet, rack, handling equipment, packaging and carrier can each impose different limits.

A floor supported rating should not be used as a rack rating. For example, EPAL’s published 1,500 kg safe working load does not establish the capacity of your complete rack and pallet arrangement. Confirm suitability before storage.[2][8]

Is there a standard loaded pallet height?

No single height applies to every shipment. Carton strength, load stability, rack openings, sprinkler clearance, equipment, trailer space and receiving requirements all affect the permitted height. Measure from the floor to the highest point, including the pallet itself.

How to measure a pallet for a freight quote

Measure the complete loaded unit at its widest, longest and highest points. Include overhanging cartons, wrap and protective packaging. A 48 × 40 pallet with product extending beyond its edges has a larger shipping footprint. Check off each item as you gather it.

Frequently asked questions