Pallet Sizes Guide: Standard Dimensions Worldwide
Understanding standard pallet sizes is crucial for efficient warehouse design, transportation planning, and inventory management. While there are dozens of pallet sizes in use worldwide, a few key standards dominate international logistics.
Most Common Pallet Sizes
Different regions have established their own pallet type standards over decades of industrial use. The most common sizes reflect regional logistics infrastructure including truck dimensions rail systems and warehouse designs.
1. North American Standard (48" × 40")
Dimensions: 48 inches × 40 inches (1219mm × 1016mm)
Usage: Most common in USA and Canada (70% of pallets)
Weight capacity: 4,600 lbs dynamic load
Best for: Grocery, retail, general manufacturing
This size perfectly fits standard 53-foot trailers and is handled efficiently by most forklift types and pallet jacks.
2. EUR/Euro Pallet (1200mm × 800mm)
Dimensions: 47.24" × 31.50" (1200mm × 800mm)
Usage: European standard (EPAL certified)
Weight capacity: 3,300 lbs dynamic load
Best for: European shipping, automotive, chemicals
EUR pallets are EPAL certified and traceable with visible markings. They are designed to fit European trucks and rail cars optimally.
3. ISO Standard (1200mm × 1000mm)
Dimensions: 47.24" × 39.37" (1200mm × 1000mm)
Usage: International standard for global shipping
Weight capacity: 3,300 lbs dynamic load
Best for: International freight, containers
The ISO standard provides excellent compatibility with 20-foot and 40-foot shipping containers making it ideal for international trade.
Regional Pallet Standards
Beyond the three dominant sizes listed above different regions worldwide have adopted various pallet dimensions based on local logistics needs infrastructure and historical precedent.
| Region | Size (inches) | Size (mm) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| North America | 48" × 40" | 1219 × 1016 | Retail, grocery |
| Europe (EUR) | 47.2" × 31.5" | 1200 × 800 | EPAL standard |
| Asia Pacific | 43.3" × 43.3" | 1100 × 1100 | Square pallets |
| Australia | 45.9" × 45.9" | 1165 × 1165 | Australian std |
| UK | 47.2" × 39.4" | 1200 × 1000 | ISO standard |
Choosing the Right Pallet Size
Selecting the appropriate pallet size requires careful consideration of your entire supply chain from warehouse storage through transportation to final delivery.
Consider These Factors:
1. Transportation Mode
- Truck trailers: 48×40" maximizes space in standard 53' trailers
- Shipping containers: 1200×1000mm fits 20' and 40' containers perfectly
- Rail transport: Follow regional standards for compatibility
2. Warehouse Racking
- Measure rack openings before ordering
- Allow 3-6 inches clearance on each side
- Consider aisle width for forklift maneuvering
3. Product Footprint
- Match pallet size to product base dimensions
- Minimize overhang (max 3 inches per side)
- Ensure even weight distribution
4. Industry Standards
- Grocery/Retail: 48×40" North American standard
- Automotive: EUR pallets (1200×800mm)
- Chemicals: EUR or ISO standards
- Pharmaceuticals: Often custom sizes for cleanrooms
Pallet Height Standards
While length and width are standardized pallet heights can vary significantly based on entry type and load requirements.
Standard Heights:
- 4-way entry pallets: 5.5" - 6" (140-150mm)
- 2-way entry pallets: 4" - 5" (100-125mm)
- Low-profile pallets: 3" - 4" (75-100mm)
- Tall pallets: 7" - 8" (180-200mm) for heavy loads
Maximum Load Height:
The combined height of pallet plus load typically should not exceed:
- Warehouse storage: 48" for safe stacking
- Truck shipping: 96" - 100" total (including pallet)
- Container shipping: 86" for standard 20' containers
When moving pallets with high-lift equipment or scissor lifts always account for the combined pallet and load height to avoid overhead clearance issues.
Custom Pallet Sizes
When standard sizes do not fit your needs custom pallets may be the solution. Many manufacturers offer custom fabrication services for specialized applications.
Common Custom Scenarios:
- Extremely heavy products requiring reinforced construction
- Odd-shaped products that do not fit standard footprints
- Specialized equipment or machinery
- Export to countries with unique standards
Custom Size Considerations:
- Cost: 20-50% more expensive than standard sizes
- Availability: Longer lead times (2-4 weeks)
- Compatibility: May not fit standard racking or trucks
- Resale: Difficult to sell used custom pallets
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common pallet size in the world?
The 48×40 inch pallet is the most common in North America while the EUR pallet (1200×800mm) dominates Europe. Globally the ISO standard (1200×1000mm) is widely used for international shipping.
How do I know what pallet size I need?
Measure your product dimensions check your warehouse racking openings consider your transportation method and follow industry standards for your sector. When in doubt 48×40 inches (North America) or 1200×800mm (Europe) are safe choices.
Can I use European pallets in North America?
Yes but they are less efficient. EUR pallets (1200×800mm) do not maximize space in standard North American trucks and may not fit all racking systems. It is generally better to use regional standards.
What size pallet fits in a 20-foot shipping container?
A 20-foot container can hold approximately 10-11 standard EUR pallets (1200×800mm) or 9-10 ISO pallets (1200×1000mm) in a single layer. The ISO size is more efficient for container shipping.