Pallet Size Guide
The complete reference for pallet dimensions, weight ratings, and industry applications.
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US Standard Pallet Sizes
The following sizes account for the vast majority of pallets used in North American commerce. All sizes are available in new and used options.
Most common US pallet. Used by ~30% of all pallets in circulation. Standard for grocery and retail distribution.
Popular for square footprint applications. Common in telecommunications and paint industries.
Designed for 55-gallon drums. Square shape provides stability for cylindrical containers.
Chemical industry standard. Often requires heat treatment for hazardous material shipping.
Department of Defense standard. Reverse orientation of the GMA pallet.
Designed for beverage cases. Optimized for standard beverage case dimensions.
Half the size of a standard GMA. Popular for in-store displays and point-of-sale merchandising.
Compact square format for specialized applications and tight storage spaces.
International Pallet Sizes
Standard sizes used in global commerce. ISPM 15 heat treatment required for export.
The most widely used pallet in Europe. Managed by the European Pallet Association.
Common in UK and across Europe and Asia for larger loads.
Standard pallet used throughout Australian supply chains.
Common in Asian markets, particularly Japan and Korea.
Metric equivalent often used in Canadian operations.
Metric equivalent of the 48×40 GMA pallet.
Pallet Anatomy & Terminology
Structural Components
- Deck Boards: The top and bottom planks that form the load-bearing surface. Top deck boards are typically thicker.
- Stringers: The long boards running lengthwise that connect the top and bottom deck boards. In stringer pallets, these are the primary structural members.
- Blocks: Short, thick wood segments used in block pallets instead of stringers. Provide true 4-way forklift entry.
- Lead Board: The outermost deck board on each end. Often the first to take damage and the most commonly replaced component.
- Notch: A cutout in the stringer that allows forklift tine entry from the side in notched stringer pallets.
- Chamfer: Beveled edges on the bottom lead boards to ease pallet jack entry.
Pallet Types by Structure
- Stringer Pallet: Uses 2-3 parallel stringers as the main support structure. The most common type in the US. Can be notched for 4-way entry or unnotched for 2-way entry.
- Block Pallet: Uses blocks at corners and center points for support. Inherently provides 4-way entry. More common in European markets (EUR pallets).
- Single-Face: Has deck boards on top only. Lighter and more economical but less durable. Good for light loads and one-way shipping.
- Double-Face: Has deck boards on both top and bottom. Provides better load distribution and stackability.
- Reversible: Both faces are identical — can be flipped and used either side up. Maximum versatility and longevity.
Entry Types
- 2-Way Entry: Forklift tines can enter from two opposite sides only. Common for unnotched stringer pallets.
- 4-Way Entry: Forklift tines can enter from all four sides. Achieved through notched stringers or block construction. Essential for tight warehouse spaces.
- Partial 4-Way: Pallet jacks can enter from two sides, forklifts from all four. A notched stringer pallet design.
How to Choose the Right Pallet Size
Consider these factors when selecting a pallet for your application.
Product Dimensions
Your products should fit within the pallet footprint without significant overhang (ideally less than 1 inch on any side) to prevent damage during handling and optimize storage density.
Load Weight
Factor in both the total weight of the load and how the weight is distributed. Point loads require stronger pallets than evenly distributed loads. Always leave a 20% safety margin.
Handling Equipment
If using pallet jacks, ensure your pallet has bottom deck boards spaced for jack wheel clearance. For forklift operations, verify the entry type (2-way vs 4-way) matches your warehouse layout.
Racking System
Selective racking requires pallets that span the rack beams without excessive deflection. Check your beam spacing — the pallet must overhang beams by 2-3 inches on each side.
Shipping Mode
Truck trailers are 96 inches wide internally. Two 48×40" pallets side-by-side optimize truck floor space. For international container shipping, consider Euro pallet sizes.
Industry Requirements
Some industries mandate specific sizes. Grocery uses 48×40" (GMA). Chemical uses 48×42". Military uses 40×48". Verify your industry standard before ordering.
Load Capacity by Construction Type
Typical load ratings for standard 48×40" pallets. Custom builds can exceed these values.
Stacking & Storage Guidelines
Floor Stacking
Maximum recommended stack height is 60 inches of product weight on the bottom pallet. Ensure the combined weight does not exceed the static load rating. Use corner boards and stretch wrap for stability.
Selective Racking
Pallets must span racking beams with 2-3 inches of overhang on each side. Verify pallet racking load capacity matches your product weight. Inspect pallets for damage before racking.
Drive-In Racking
Requires consistent pallet dimensions within ±1/4 inch tolerance. Block pallets preferred for drive-in systems. Inspect rail guides regularly for pallet debris buildup.
Empty Pallet Storage
Stack empty pallets no higher than 15 pallets (approximately 7.5 feet). Store on flat, level surfaces. Keep away from fire sources — wood pallets are combustible. Follow NFPA 13 sprinkler clearance requirements.