Pallets are widely used in shipping and transporting goods, and it is important to know the standard sizes to determine how much cargo can fit, how to stack them for safe transport, and how much space is needed for storage.
- 48″ x 40″ is the most common pallet size in the US, and it can hold up to 4,600 lbs of weight.
- 42″ x 42″ is popular in the automotive industry and can hold up to 3,500 lbs of weight.
- 48″ x 48″ is commonly used in the chemical industry and can hold up to 5,000 lbs of weight.
- 36″ x 36″ is often used for transporting drums and can hold up to 3,000 lbs of weight.
- There are also European standard pallet sizes, such as 1200mm x 800mm and 1200mm x 1000mm, which are commonly used in international trade.
It is important to note that custom pallet sizes can also be made to fit specific requirements, but they may come at a higher cost. Understanding pallet size dimensions can help businesses optimize their transportation and storage processes, leading to more efficient and cost-effective operations.
Pallet Size Dimensions & Sizes
| Type | Common Sizes | Dimensions (WxL) |
| Standard Pallet | 48 x 40 inches | 121.92 x 101.6 cm |
| European Pallet | 1200 x 800 mm | 120 x 80 cm |
| Block Pallet | 48 x 48 inches | 121.92 x 121.92 cm |
| Half Pallet | 48 x 20 inches | 121.92 x 50.8 cm |
| Quarter Pallet | 24 x 20 inches | 60.96 x 50.8 cm |
Guide to Pallet Size: References and Resources
There are multiple resources available online to learn more about pallet size dimensions. Here are a few references:
- The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) sets standards for pallet sizes. These standards can be accessed on their website: https://www.iso.org/standard/34346.html
- The National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA) is a trade organization that provides information on pallet dimensions and standards. Their website is: https://www.palletcentral.com/page/PalletStandards
- The European Pallet Association (EPAL) is an organization that represents the interests of the European pallet and packaging industry. They provide information on pallet dimensions and standards on their website: https://www.epal-pallets.org/en/home/
Additionally, there are textbooks and industry publications available that cover the topic of pallet dimensions in depth. Some recommended titles include:
- “Pallets: A North American Perspective” by Philip Araman
- “Pallets 101: Industry Overview and Wood, Plastic, Paper & Metal Options” by Ross Hudgins
- “Packaging for Shipping, Storage and Distribution: A Guide to Improved Design and Development” by John T. Phelan
If you’d like to delve deeper into the topic of Dimensions, we encourage you to utilize our search feature in KOBI International or visit the official websites and references for accessing relevant materials.
