Pallet Size Guide
Everything you need to know about pallet sizes, dimensions, specifications, and how to choose the right pallet for your needs.
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Quick Size Reference
Not sure where to start? The 48" x 40" GMA pallet is the most common size in North America and is compatible with most standard racking and transportation systems.
Most Common
GMA/Grocery standard used by most retailers and warehouses
Square Option
Popular in telecom, paint, and chemical industries
Drum Size
Ideal for 55-gallon drums and bulk containers
North American Standard Sizes
The most commonly used pallet sizes in the United States and Canada, with load capacity information.
| Size (L x W) | Name |
|---|---|
| 48" x 40" | GMA / Grocery |
| 42" x 42" | Telecom |
| 48" x 48" | Drum |
| 48" x 45" | Automotive |
| 48" x 42" | Chemical / Beverage |
| 40" x 40" | Dairy |
| 48" x 36" | Beverage |
| 36" x 36" | General / Beverage |
| 44" x 44" | Drum / Chemical |
| 60" x 48" | Oversized |
| 48" x 20" | Half Pallet |
| 40" x 24" | Quarter Pallet |
*Load capacities are typical values for standard wood pallets. Actual capacity varies by construction, wood type, and condition.
The Most Popular Size
The 48" x 40" pallet accounts for approximately 30% of all new wood pallets produced in the United States. It's the standard size for grocery, retail, and many other industries.
ISO International Sizes
Standard pallet sizes recognized by the International Organization for Standardization. Important for international shipping and global supply chains.
Most common in Europe, fits European trucks
Ideal for heavier European goods
Standard Australian pallet size
Telecom and paint industries
Common throughout Asia
Display pallets, smaller loads
ISPM-15 Requirement
All wood packaging materials (including pallets) used in international trade must comply with ISPM-15 standards. This requires heat treatment to 56°C for 30 minutes minimum to eliminate pests. We are a certified ISPM-15 facility and can provide compliant pallets for your export needs.
Understanding Load Capacity
Pallet load capacity varies depending on how the pallet is being used. Always ensure your load doesn't exceed the appropriate capacity for your application.
Static Load
Weight supported when the pallet is stationary and fully supported from below, such as on a flat warehouse floor or on top of another pallet in a stack.
Dynamic Load
Weight supported when the pallet is being moved by a forklift or pallet jack. The movement creates additional stress on the pallet structure.
Racking Load
Weight supported when the pallet is on racking with support only at the edges. This creates the most stress and has the lowest capacity rating.
Factors That Affect Load Capacity
- Wood type: Hardwoods typically support more weight than softwoods
- Moisture content: Wet wood has reduced strength
- Pallet condition: Damage reduces load-bearing capacity
- Board thickness: Thicker boards support more weight
- Load distribution: Evenly distributed loads maximize capacity
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures can affect wood strength
Common Wood Types for Pallets
Different wood species offer different characteristics. Understanding these can help you choose the right pallet for your specific application.
Southern Yellow Pine
The most commonly used wood for pallets in North America. Known for its strength, availability, and cost-effectiveness.
Advantages
- High strength-to-weight ratio
- Widely available
- Cost-effective
- Takes nails well
Considerations
- Susceptible to decay if not treated
- Can have high moisture content
Oak
A hardwood option that provides superior strength and durability. Often used for heavy-duty applications.
Advantages
- Extremely strong
- Durable
- Long-lasting
- Resistant to wear
Considerations
- Heavier than softwoods
- More expensive
- Can be harder to nail
Mixed Hardwoods
A combination of various hardwood species. Common in recycled and used pallets.
Advantages
- Good strength
- Often less expensive
- Sustainable option
Considerations
- Variable quality
- May have different characteristics
Spruce/Pine/Fir (SPF)
A category of softwoods commonly used in pallet manufacturing, especially in Canada.
Advantages
- Lightweight
- Easy to work with
- Good availability
Considerations
- Lower strength than hardwoods
- More susceptible to damage
Pallet Terminology
Understanding the language of pallets helps you communicate your needs effectively and make informed decisions about your pallet requirements.
Structure
Stringer
The long boards that run the length of the pallet, providing the main structural support. Typically made from 2x4 lumber.
Deck Board
The boards that form the top and bottom surfaces of the pallet. Top deck boards carry the load, while bottom boards provide stability.
Block
Square or rectangular pieces (typically 4"x4" or 3.5"x3.5") that support the deck boards in block-style pallets. Usually 9 blocks per pallet.
Lead Board
The boards at either end of the pallet deck, which are often thicker or wider for added strength.
Notched Stringer
Stringers with cutouts to allow four-way entry while maintaining stringer construction. Notches are typically 9" wide and 1.5" deep.
Entry Type
Four-way Entry
Pallets that can be lifted from all four sides by forklifts or pallet jacks. Achieved through notched stringers or block construction.
Two-way Entry
Pallets that can only be lifted from two opposite sides. Common in stringer pallets without notches.
Partial Four-way
Stringer pallets with notches that allow fork entry from all sides, but pallet jacks can only enter from two sides.
Design
Flush Pallet
A pallet where the top deck boards are flush with the edges of the stringers. Most common design.
Wing Pallet
A pallet where the deck boards extend beyond the stringers for overhang. Useful for strapping and securing loads.
Double-Face Pallet
A pallet with deck boards on both top and bottom surfaces. Provides better stability and weight distribution.
Single-Face Pallet
A pallet with deck boards on only one surface. Lighter and less expensive, but limited applications.
Reversible Pallet
A pallet that can be used with either face up. Both surfaces have identical deck board configurations.
Capacity
Static Load
The maximum weight a pallet can support when stationary and fully supported from below. Highest load capacity rating.
Dynamic Load
The maximum weight a pallet can support when being moved by a forklift or pallet jack. Lower than static due to stress from movement.
Racking Load
The maximum weight a pallet can support when placed on racking with support only at the edges. Lowest capacity rating.
Edge Racking
When a pallet is supported only at its edges (typically 2-4" on each end) while spanning across racking beams.
Industry-Specific Recommendations
Different industries have different pallet requirements. Here are our recommendations based on common industry needs and regulations.
Food & Beverage
Pharmaceutical
Automotive
Retail
Chemical
Manufacturing
Need Help Choosing the Right Size?
Not sure which pallet size is right for your application? Our team of experts can help you select the perfect pallet for your needs, whether it's a standard size or a custom solution.