Pallet Size Guide
A plain reference to pallet sizes, dimensions, and terms, to help you choose the right pallet before you request a quote.
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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, common in retail and warehousing
Square Option
Common in telecom and paint
Drum Size
Common for 55-gallon drums and bulk containers
North American Standard Sizes
Commonly used pallet sizes in the United States and Canada, with their typical uses.
| Size (L x W) | Name |
|---|---|
| 48" x 40" | GMA / Grocery |
| 42" x 42" | Telecom |
| 48" x 48" | Drum |
| 40" x 48" | Cement |
| 48" x 45" | Automotive |
| 48" x 42" | Chemical / Beverage |
| 44" x 44" | Drum / Chemical |
| 40" x 40" | Dairy |
| 48" x 36" | Beverage |
| 36" x 36" | Beverage |
| 48" x 20" | Half Pallet |
Load ratings vary by design; confirm with the supplier. Size names reflect common use, and usage varies.
The Most Popular Size
The 48" x 40" pallet is the most common size in North America. It's the usual choice for grocery, retail, and many other industries, so it's a sensible place to start if you are not sure what you need.
ISO International Sizes
Pallet sizes recognized by the International Organization for Standardization. These are useful to know for international shipping and global supply chains.
The metric listing of the GMA size
Common in Europe and Asia
The common pallet size in Europe
Square size often used with shipping containers
Common in Asia
Telecom and paint
ISPM 15 and Export Shipments
Wood packaging used in international trade often has to meet ISPM 15. Heat treatment (HT) means a minimum 56 °C core temperature for 30 minutes. ISPM 15 heat-treated pallets carry the IPPC mark; ask partner suppliers for what your shipment needs, and check current regulations for your destination.
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
A widely used wood for pallets in North America, known for its strength and availability.
Advantages
- High strength-to-weight ratio
- Widely available
- Takes nails well
Considerations
- Susceptible to decay if not treated
- Can have high moisture content
Oak
A hardwood option often used for heavier applications.
Advantages
- Very strong
- Durable
- Resistant to wear
Considerations
- Heavier than softwoods
- Can be harder to nail
Mixed Hardwoods
A combination of various hardwood species. Common in recycled and used pallets.
Advantages
- Good strength
- Common in used pallets
Considerations
- Variable characteristics
- Weight can differ between boards
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 and provide the main structural support.
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 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 that allow four-way entry while keeping stringer construction.
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, but with 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 while spanning across racking beams.
Common Sizes by Industry
Different industries tend to use different pallets. Treat these notes as general starting points and confirm your needs with the supplier.
Food & Beverage
Pharmaceutical
Automotive
Retail
Chemical
Manufacturing
Need Help Choosing the Right Size?
Not sure which pallet size is right for your application? Describe your load in your request, and we will pass it to partner suppliers in our network.