Complete Pallet Size Guide
Your definitive reference for pallet dimensions worldwide. Find standard sizes, weight capacities, industry recommendations, pallet anatomy, international standards, and everything you need to choose the perfect pallet for your application. Covering 15+ North American sizes and 11+ international standards.
Why the Right Pallet Size Matters
Choosing the wrong pallet size costs money at every stage of your supply chain. Oversized pallets waste trailer space (you pay for air). Undersized pallets cause product overhang (increasing damage by 30%). Non-standard sizes are rejected by major retailers. International shipments on the wrong pallet dimensions are re-palletized at the destination -- an expensive and time-consuming process.
The right pallet size maximizes the number of pallets per truckload, minimizes product overhang, fits your racking system precisely, meets your customer requirements, and works efficiently with your handling equipment. This guide will help you make that decision with confidence.
Standard North American Pallet Sizes
The 15 most commonly used pallet sizes in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The 48x40" GMA pallet accounts for approximately 30% of all pallets produced in North America. All sizes are available from Pallets Eco in wood (new and recycled) and plastic configurations.
| Size (in) | Size (cm) | Typical Use | Dynamic | Static | Racking | Weight | Entry | Standard | Popularity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48 x 40" | 122 x 102 | GMA / Grocery, retail, general shipping | 2,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 37-70 lbs | 4-way (notched) or 2-way | GMA | Most Common (30% of all US pallets) |
| 42 x 42" | 107 x 107 | Telecom, paint cans, chemical drums | 2,200 lbs | 4,400 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 35-55 lbs | 4-way | CPC | Very Common |
| 48 x 48" | 122 x 122 | Drums, barrels, square bulk containers | 2,800 lbs | 5,600 lbs | 2,200 lbs | 40-65 lbs | 4-way | Military / DoD | Common |
| 48 x 42" | 122 x 107 | Chemical, military, cement, beverage | 2,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 38-60 lbs | 4-way | Chemical / Military | Common |
| 40 x 40" | 102 x 102 | Dairy industry, square goods | 2,000 lbs | 4,000 lbs | 1,600 lbs | 30-45 lbs | 4-way | Dairy | Moderate |
| 48 x 45" | 122 x 114 | Automotive industry, large machinery parts | 2,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 38-62 lbs | 4-way | Automotive | Common |
| 48 x 36" | 122 x 91 | Beverage, bottling, paper, publishing | 2,200 lbs | 4,400 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 33-50 lbs | 4-way | Beverage | Moderate |
| 44 x 44" | 112 x 112 | Drums (200L), bulk chemicals | 2,200 lbs | 4,400 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 35-55 lbs | 4-way | Chemical | Moderate |
| 36 x 36" | 91 x 91 | Small goods, specialty, printing | 1,800 lbs | 3,600 lbs | 1,400 lbs | 25-38 lbs | 4-way | Specialty | Less Common |
| 48 x 20" | 122 x 51 | Half pallets, retail display | 1,200 lbs | 2,400 lbs | 800 lbs | 18-28 lbs | 4-way | Retail | Growing (retail trend) |
| 24 x 20" | 61 x 51 | Quarter pallets, POS displays | 800 lbs | 1,600 lbs | 500 lbs | 10-18 lbs | 4-way | Retail | Growing (retail trend) |
| 60 x 48" | 152 x 122 | Oversized loads, construction materials | 3,000 lbs | 6,000 lbs | 2,400 lbs | 55-85 lbs | 4-way | Custom / Heavy | Less Common |
| 72 x 48" | 183 x 122 | Large machinery, steel, panel goods | 3,500 lbs | 7,000 lbs | 2,800 lbs | 65-100 lbs | 4-way | Custom / Heavy | Specialty |
| 48 x 24" | 122 x 61 | Half pallets, narrow aisle retail | 1,200 lbs | 2,400 lbs | 800 lbs | 18-30 lbs | 4-way | Retail | Growing |
| Custom" | Any | Built to your exact specifications | Engineered | Engineered | Engineered | Varies | 2 or 4-way | Custom | On demand |
* Load capacities are typical ranges for standard stringer construction in Southern Yellow Pine. Actual capacity varies by wood species, construction type, and nail pattern. Contact us for specific load ratings.
International Pallet Standards
Pallet dimensions vary by region and are governed by different national and international standards organizations. If you ship internationally, matching destination country standards is critical to avoid re-palletization costs and customer compliance issues.
| Name | Size (mm) | Size (inches) | Region | Description & Use | Standard | Weight | Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EUR / EPAL | 800 x 1200 mm | 31.5 x 47.2" | Europe | European retail, logistics, and warehousing standard. The most common pallet in Europe, managed by the European Pallet Association (EPAL). | EN 13698-1 | 20-25 kg (44-55 lbs) | 4-way (block) |
| EUR-2 / ISO | 1200 x 1000 mm | 47.2 x 39.4" | Europe / Global | European logistics and ISO international standard. Common in industrial applications and international trade routes. | ISO 6780 | 33 kg (73 lbs) | 4-way (block) |
| EUR-3 / Half | 1000 x 1200 mm | 39.4 x 47.2" | Europe | Same dimensions as EUR-2 but with reversed length/width orientation. Used in specific European logistics configurations. | ISO 6780 | 29 kg (64 lbs) | 4-way (block) |
| EUR-6 / Quarter | 800 x 600 mm | 31.5 x 23.6" | Europe | Quarter Euro pallet for retail display applications. Fits precisely inside a standard EUR footprint for modular merchandising. | EN 13698 | 9.5 kg (21 lbs) | 4-way |
| Australian Standard | 1165 x 1165 mm | 45.9 x 45.9" | Australia / NZ | The CHEP standard pallet used throughout Australian domestic logistics. Square design accommodates the unique dimensions of Australian transport systems. | AS 4068 | 33 kg (73 lbs) | 4-way (block) |
| Asian T11 | 1100 x 1100 mm | 43.3 x 43.3" | Japan / Korea / Taiwan | The dominant pallet standard across Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Square design optimized for Asian container shipping and warehouse systems. | KS T 1002 / JIS Z 0604 | 28 kg (62 lbs) | 4-way (block) |
| Chinese Standard | 1100 x 1100 mm | 43.3 x 43.3" | China | Aligns with the Asian T11 standard for cross-border compatibility. Increasingly adopted in Chinese domestic logistics alongside 1200x1000mm. | GB/T 2934 | 28 kg (62 lbs) | 4-way |
| South African | 1000 x 1200 mm | 39.4 x 47.2" | South Africa | Based on the ISO standard, used throughout Southern African logistics. Compatible with the CHEP Africa pallet pool system. | SABS 1496 | 30 kg (66 lbs) | 4-way (block) |
| Brazilian PBR | 1000 x 1200 mm | 39.4 x 47.2" | Brazil | The PBR standard managed by ABRAS (Brazilian Supermarket Association). Used in Brazilian domestic retail and distribution. | ABRAS PBR | 28 kg (62 lbs) | 4-way (block) |
| Indian Standard | 1140 x 1140 mm | 44.9 x 44.9" | India | Emerging standard for Indian domestic logistics. Designed to optimize space in Indian standard transport vehicles. | BIS Standard | 30 kg (66 lbs) | 4-way |
| North American GMA | 1016 x 1219 mm | 40 x 48" | North America | The global representation of the US/Canadian 48x40" GMA standard. Included here for cross-reference with metric measurements. | GMA / ISO 6780 | 17-32 kg (37-70 lbs) | 4-way (notched or block) |
How to Choose the Right Pallet Size
Selecting the optimal pallet size depends on six interrelated factors. Consider each one carefully before making your decision -- the right choice saves money at every stage of your supply chain.
Product Dimensions
Start with your product or case dimensions. Calculate the optimal arrangement of cases per layer -- the pallet should be large enough to support your ideal case pattern with minimal overhang (ideally zero). Measure your largest case and test different arrangements on graph paper or using a pallet pattern calculator.
Load Weight
Calculate the total weight of your fully loaded pallet, including the product, cases, and any dunnage or packaging. Compare this to the pallet dynamic, static, and racking load ratings. Always choose a pallet rated at least 20% above your maximum load to provide a safety margin for uneven distribution.
Storage & Racking System
Your warehouse racking configuration determines which pallet sizes fit. Standard selective racking typically accommodates 48x40" pallets. Drive-in, push-back, and pallet flow systems may require specific dimensions and 4-way entry for proper rail engagement. Measure your rack beam spacing and depth before ordering.
Transportation Mode
Standard 53-foot trailers have an interior width of 99-101 inches. Two 48x40" pallets fit side-by-side with a 3-5 inch gap (30 per load). Shipping containers vary: 20-foot containers fit 10 GMA pallets, 40-foot containers fit 20-21. Air freight has strict weight and dimension limits. Choose a pallet size that maximizes space utilization for your primary transport mode.
Industry & Customer Standards
Many industries and major customers mandate specific pallet sizes. The grocery industry uses 48x40" GMA pallets exclusively. European retailers require EUR 800x1200mm. The automotive industry uses 48x45". Check with your customers and industry association before selecting a non-standard size.
International vs Domestic
If your products cross borders, you need to consider both the pallet size standards of the destination country and ISPM 15 compliance for wood pallets. Many exporters choose plastic pallets to avoid ISPM 15 requirements entirely. For European destinations, EUR 800x1200mm or 1200x1000mm pallets are strongly preferred.
Understanding Pallet Construction
Understanding the parts of a pallet helps you communicate requirements clearly, evaluate pallet quality, and make informed decisions about which pallet type best suits your application.
Top Deck Boards
The horizontal boards forming the top surface of the pallet. Products are placed on these boards. The number of boards (typically 5-7 for a 48x40) and their width affect load distribution and the gap between boards. Fewer, wider boards provide better support for small-footprint items.
Bottom Deck Boards
The horizontal boards on the underside of the pallet. Bottom boards provide stability, prevent racking deflection, and create a surface for forklift tines to push against. Typically 3-5 boards for a standard pallet. More bottom boards = better racking performance.
Stringers
The long structural members (usually 2x4 or 3x4 lumber) running the full length of stringer pallets. Stringers support the deck boards and bear the load. They can be notched (cut-outs for fork entry from the side) or un-notched (2-way entry only). The wood species and cross-section of stringers determine load capacity.
Blocks
Cube-shaped pieces of solid wood (typically 3.5"x3.5"x3.5") used in block pallets instead of stringers. Positioned at corners, edges, and center (6 or 9 blocks), they support the deck boards and provide true 4-way fork entry. Blocks can be solid wood, laminated wood, or pressed/composite wood.
Notches
Rectangular cut-outs in the stringers that allow fork tines to enter from the stringer side (creating partial 4-way entry). Standard notch dimensions are 1.5" deep x 9" wide. Notching reduces stringer strength by 15-25%, which is why block pallets have higher load ratings for the same wood species.
Chamfer / Lead Board
A beveled or angled edge on the bottom lead boards (the outermost bottom deck boards) that guides forklift tines into the pallet opening. The chamfer reduces the risk of fork tines hitting the bottom boards and makes pallet entry easier, faster, and less damaging to both pallets and forks.
Fork Openings
The spaces between the top deck, bottom deck, and stringers or blocks where forklift tines or pallet jack forks enter the pallet. Standard fork opening height is 3-4 inches. The opening must accommodate standard fork tine dimensions (typically 2" tall x 4-7" wide x 36-48" long).
Wing / Overhang
When the top or bottom deck boards extend beyond the outer edge of the stringers or blocks. Wings provide additional deck surface area and allow stretch wrap to be tucked underneath for better load securing. Wing pallets are common in beverage and canning industries.
Understanding Load Capacities
Every pallet has three load ratings that apply to different usage scenarios. Understanding these ratings is essential for safe handling, storage, and compliance with warehouse safety standards.
Static Load Capacity
The maximum weight a pallet can safely support when sitting stationary on a flat, level surface (typically a warehouse floor). This is the highest rated capacity because the weight is distributed evenly across the entire bottom deck, with full support from the floor beneath. Static loads apply to pallets in floor storage, on loading docks, and in stacking configurations where each pallet is fully supported by the one below.
Dynamic Load Capacity
The maximum weight a pallet can support while being lifted and moved by a forklift or pallet jack. Dynamic loads create additional stresses beyond gravity: the lifting force of fork tines concentrates stress at the entry points, acceleration and deceleration create inertial forces, and uneven surfaces create impact loads. For these reasons, dynamic load ratings are typically 50-60% of the static rating.
Racking Load Capacity
The maximum weight a pallet can hold when placed on beam racks, where the pallet is supported only at its two outer edges (the rack beams). This is the most demanding load condition because the center of the pallet spans unsupported between the beams, creating significant bending stress. Racking load ratings are typically 40-50% of the dynamic load rating. This is the most important specification for warehouse operations using pallet racking.
Critical Load Capacity Notes
- Always verify the manufacturer load rating for your specific pallet model and construction
- Load ratings assume evenly distributed weight across the full pallet surface area
- Concentrated or point loads (heavy items in one spot) significantly reduce effective capacity
- Pallet condition directly affects capacity -- damaged pallets may have reduced ratings
- Wood moisture content affects strength -- wet pallets are weaker than dry pallets
- Temperature extremes can affect plastic pallet capacity (reduced at high and low temps)
- Racking load is the most critical rating for warehouse pallet racking applications
- When in doubt, choose a pallet with at least 20% more capacity than your maximum load
- Contact us for specific load testing data and certified ratings on any pallet model
- OSHA requires that pallet loads do not exceed the rated capacity of the racking system
International Pallet Standards Organizations
Pallet sizes and quality requirements are governed by several organizations worldwide. Understanding which standards apply to your trade lanes ensures compliance and compatibility.
GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association)
The de facto North American standard, specifying the 48x40" pallet as the standard for grocery and retail distribution. While GMA no longer exists as an organization (it merged into the Consumer Brands Association), the pallet standard it established remains the dominant specification in US commerce. Over 30% of all pallets in the US are GMA-spec 48x40".
EPAL (European Pallet Association)
Manages the EUR pallet standard (800x1200mm), the most common pallet in Europe. EPAL licenses manufacturers, conducts quality audits, and maintains a pallet pool system with over 500 million pallets in circulation. EPAL pallets are marked with the distinctive EPAL and EUR stamps and are interchangeable across the European pallet pool.
ISO 6780
The International Organization for Standardization recognizes six standard pallet sizes for international trade: 1219x1016mm (48x40"), 1200x1000mm, 1200x800mm, 1140x1140mm, 1100x1100mm, and 1067x1067mm (42x42"). ISO 6780 also defines quality requirements, dimensions tolerances, and testing methods for pallet performance.
ISPM 15 (Phytosanitary)
Not a size standard but a critical compliance requirement. ISPM 15 mandates that all solid wood packaging materials (including pallets) used in international trade must be heat-treated to 56 degrees C core temperature for 30 minutes to prevent pest transmission. Pallets must bear the IPPC wheat stamp. Plastic and processed wood products are exempt.
NWPCA (National Wooden Pallet and Container Association)
The US industry trade association that develops standards, best practices, and the Pallet Design System (PDS) software used to engineer wood pallets. NWPCA certification ensures manufacturers meet quality standards for pallet construction, grading, and heat treatment.
Stringer vs Block Pallets
The two fundamental pallet constructions. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right type for your application, handling equipment, and budget.
| Feature | Stringer Pallets | Block Pallets |
|---|---|---|
| Fork Entry | 2-way (un-notched) or partial 4-way (notched) | True 4-way entry from all sides |
| Construction | 2-3 full-length stringers support deck boards | 6-9 blocks between top and bottom decks |
| Load Capacity | Lower (notching reduces strength by 15-25%) | Higher (blocks distribute load more evenly) |
| Racking Performance | Good -- stringers span rack beams | Better -- bottom deck boards add stiffness |
| Cost | Lower (simpler construction, less material) | Higher (more components, more labor) |
| Repairability | Easy -- individual boards easily replaced | Moderate -- block replacement more complex |
| International Use | Dominant in North America | Dominant in Europe (EUR/EPAL standard) |
| Automation Compatible | Good (with consistent dimensions) | Better (true 4-way, more consistent) |
| Weight | Lighter (less wood material) | Heavier (more wood in blocks and extra boards) |
| Best For | Domestic US shipping, budget applications | Export, heavy loads, racking, automation |
Trailer & Container Loading Reference
How many pallets fit in standard trailers and containers? Use this reference for shipment planning and freight optimization.
| Pallet Size | 53ft Trailer | 48ft Trailer | 40ft Container | 20ft Container | Loading Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48 x 40" | 30 pallets | 26 pallets | 20-21 pallets | 10 pallets | 2 wide, 15 rows |
| 48 x 48" | 26 pallets | 22 pallets | 20 pallets | 10 pallets | 2 wide, 13 rows |
| 42 x 42" | 30 pallets | 26 pallets | 20 pallets | 10 pallets | 2 wide, pinwheel option |
| 48 x 45" | 26 pallets | 24 pallets | 18 pallets | 9 pallets | 2 wide, 13 rows |
| 48 x 36" | 36 pallets | 32 pallets | 24 pallets | 12 pallets | 2 wide, 18 rows (tight) |
| 36 x 36" | 40 pallets | 36 pallets | 28 pallets | 14 pallets | Multiple configurations |
| 800x1200mm | 33 pallets | 30 pallets | 24 pallets | 12 pallets | Mixed orientation |
| 1000x1200mm | 26 pallets | 22 pallets | 20 pallets | 10 pallets | 2 wide, lengthwise |
| 1100x1100mm | 26 pallets | 24 pallets | 20 pallets | 10 pallets | 2 wide, lengthwise |
| 1165x1165mm | 24 pallets | 22 pallets | 18 pallets | 9 pallets | 2 wide, lengthwise |
* Numbers are approximate and may vary based on exact trailer/container dimensions, pallet height, load configuration, and whether pallets are single or double-stacked. Single-stack floor loading assumed.
Size Optimization Tips
Expert recommendations to help you get the most value from your pallet size selection. Small optimizations can yield significant savings across your supply chain.
Minimize Product Overhang
Products should not extend beyond the pallet edge. Overhang increases damage risk during handling and storage, interferes with racking, and creates unstable loads. If your cases overhang by more than 1", consider a larger pallet or adjusting case dimensions.
Maximize Trailer Utilization
Calculate how many pallets fit in your primary trailer or container size. A pallet size that wastes 6 inches per row across 15 rows wastes 7.5 linear feet of trailer space -- equivalent to 2-3 lost pallets per load. Even small adjustments can yield significant shipping savings.
Match Your Racking
Measure your rack beam spacing before ordering pallets. Pallets that are too wide will not fit; pallets that are too narrow will overshoot the beams and may fall through. Standard selective racking is designed for 48x40" pallets with 42" clear opening.
Consider Half and Quarter Pallets
For retail display and point-of-sale applications, half pallets (48x20") and quarter pallets (24x20") deliver products directly to the sales floor. They eliminate the need for unboxing and shelving, reducing in-store labor by 70% and increasing product visibility.
Standardize Where Possible
Using a single pallet size across your operation simplifies purchasing, racking, handling, and repair. The 48x40" GMA pallet works for 80%+ of applications. Only deviate when industry standards, product dimensions, or customer requirements mandate a different size.
Factor in Return Logistics
If pallets are returned empty, consider nestable designs (plastic) or foldable solutions (pallet collars) that reduce empty pallet storage and return freight by 60-80%. This is especially important for export pallets where return is often cost-prohibitive.
Size Recommendations by Industry
Each industry has evolved its own pallet size preferences based on product dimensions, shipping methods, customer requirements, and regulatory standards. Here are our expert recommendations.
Retail & Grocery
The GMA 48x40" is non-negotiable for major US retailers. Half and quarter pallets are growing rapidly for in-store merchandising and club store displays. These smaller formats eliminate the need for store associates to unbox and shelve individual items, reducing in-store labor costs by up to 70%.
Food & Beverage
Food-grade pallets require ISPM 15 heat treatment for domestic and international use. Beverage distributors often prefer 48x36" for efficient case stacking of bottles, cans, and kegs. All food pallets should be Grade A or B with no mold, contamination, or chemical residue.
Pharmaceutical
Pharma supply chains are global, requiring both North American and European sizes. Grade A is the minimum for GMP compliance. Plastic pallets are increasingly preferred for cleanroom compatibility and sterilization capability. Full lot traceability documentation is typically required.
Automotive
The 48x45" is the recognized automotive standard for parts bins and shipping containers. Custom sizes are common for specific assemblies (engines, transmissions, body panels). Returnable pallet programs between OEMs and suppliers are widespread -- consider durable hardwood or plastic.
Construction & Building
Construction materials (drywall, lumber, steel, concrete products) often require oversized, heavy-duty pallets with load ratings exceeding 4,000 lbs dynamic. Block construction is preferred for maximum capacity and 4-way access on job sites. Weather treatment is essential for outdoor storage.
Chemical & Hazmat
Chemical industry favors square pallets sized for specific drum arrangements (4x 55-gallon drums on 48x48", 4x 200L drums on 44x44"). Plastic pallets are often preferred for chemical resistance and non-absorbent surfaces. Spill containment pallet options available.
Electronics & Technology
Global electronics supply chains require multiple pallet sizes. ESD-safe (static-dissipative) plastic pallets protect sensitive components. Cleanroom-compatible pallets needed for semiconductor manufacturing. Consistent dimensions critical for automated handling.
Military & Defense
Military pallets often follow MIL-STD specifications for dimensions, load ratings, and materials. The 48x48" is the standard logistics pallet. Ammunition pallets use 48x42" with specific construction requirements. ISPM 15 compliance required for international deployment.
Need a Custom Size?
When no standard size fits your needs, we manufacture custom pallets to your exact specifications. From small 12x12" display platforms to oversized 72x72" industrial platforms, our team can engineer the perfect solution with precise load ratings, specific entry configurations, and your choice of materials.
Any Dimension
From 12x12" to 72x72" and beyond for specialty applications.
Engineered Load Ratings
Custom structural analysis using NWPCA PDS software.
Any Entry Configuration
2-way, 4-way, or custom fork entry positions.
48-Hour Prototyping
Sample pallets for testing before production commitment.
Multiple Materials
Wood, plastic, or mixed material construction.
Volume Manufacturing
From 25 units to 25,000+ per order.
Custom Size Process
Share Your Requirements
Provide dimensions, load needs, entry type, material preference, and quantity.
Engineering Review
Our team models the optimal pallet construction using PDS software.
Quote & Specs
Receive detailed pricing, specifications, and production timeline.
Prototype & Test
We build samples for your review and real-world testing.
Production & Delivery
Full-scale manufacturing with quality controls and on-time delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about pallet sizes, standards, and selection. Need more help? Our pallet specialists are always available to assist.
What is the most popular pallet size in the United States?
The 48" x 40" GMA pallet is the most popular, accounting for approximately 30% of all pallets produced in the US. It is the standard required by virtually all major US retailers (Walmart, Costco, Target, Amazon, Kroger) and is optimized for standard US trailer dimensions (two pallets fit side-by-side in a 53-foot trailer with minimal wasted space). If you are unsure what size to use, the 48x40 is almost always a safe default.
What is the difference between 2-way and 4-way entry pallets?
Two-way pallets have solid stringers that only allow fork entry from two sides (the two open ends). Four-way pallets allow fork entry from all four sides -- either through notched stringers (partial 4-way, where pallet jacks can enter from only two sides but forklifts from all four) or block construction (true 4-way, where both forklifts and pallet jacks can enter from any side). Four-way pallets are more versatile but slightly more expensive.
How do I know which pallet size my industry requires?
Check with your primary customer or industry trade association. Major retailers publish pallet specifications in their vendor compliance guides. The grocery industry mandates 48x40". The automotive industry uses 48x45". European retailers require EUR 800x1200mm. Telecommunications uses 42x42". If you serve multiple industries, the 48x40" GMA pallet provides the broadest compatibility.
What are the three types of pallet load capacity, and which one matters most?
Static load is the capacity on a flat floor (highest rating). Dynamic load is the capacity while being moved by forklift (50-60% of static). Racking load is the capacity when placed on beam racks supported at edges only (40-50% of dynamic). For most warehouse operations using pallet racking, the racking load is the most critical specification because it represents the most demanding use condition. Always ensure your total pallet load does not exceed the racking load rating.
Can you make a pallet in a completely custom size?
Yes. We manufacture custom pallets in any dimension from 12x12 inches (small display platforms) to 72x72 inches (oversized industrial platforms) and beyond for specialty applications. Custom pallets can be engineered with specific load ratings, entry configurations, wood species, and treatments. Minimum order quantities may apply for truly unique sizes. We typically deliver custom pallet samples within 48 hours for testing before committing to production runs.
How many 48x40 pallets fit in a 53-foot trailer?
Thirty (30) standard 48x40" pallets fit in a 53-foot trailer when loaded in the standard configuration: two pallets side-by-side (48" + 48" = 96" in a 99-101" trailer width), fifteen rows deep (40" x 15 = 600" / 50 feet, within the 53-foot length). This configuration leaves 3-5 inches between pallets and 24-36 inches of space at the trailer nose. Always verify with your specific trailer dimensions.
What is the difference between a stringer pallet and a block pallet?
Stringer pallets use 2-3 long boards (stringers) running the full pallet length to support the deck boards. They are less expensive and dominant in North America. Block pallets use 6-9 wooden blocks positioned between top and bottom decks. They provide true 4-way entry, higher load capacity, and better racking performance, but cost 15-25% more. Block pallets dominate in Europe (EUR/EPAL standard) and are preferred for heavy-duty, export, and automated applications.
Do I need to use ISPM 15 treated pallets for shipping to Canada or Mexico?
Yes. Despite the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) trade agreement, ISPM 15 requirements apply to wood packaging materials shipped between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. All solid wood pallets must be heat-treated and stamped with the IPPC wheat stamp. The only exceptions are processed wood products (plywood, OSB) and non-wood packaging (plastic, metal). Non-compliance can result in rejection, quarantine, or fines at the border.
Need Help Choosing the Right Size?
Our pallet specialists can recommend the optimal size for your products, warehouse, and supply chain. Tell us about your application and we will provide expert guidance along with a competitive quote.