The Ultimate Guide to Common Wood Pallet Sizes (and Why They Matter to You)
Whether you’re a small‑business owner, a warehouse manager, or a DIY‑enthusiast planning a home‑project, chances are you’ll encounter a wooden pallet at some point. Those sturdy platforms are the unsung heroes of modern logistics, and understanding the standard wood pallet sizes can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.
In this post you’ll:
- Learn the most widely‑used pallet dimensions in North America, Europe, and Asia.
- See a quick‑reference table you can print or bookmark.
- Discover how to pick the right pallet for your specific needs.
- Get answers to the most common questions in our FAQ section.
Let’s dive in!
1. Why Standard Pallet Sizes Matter to You
- Compatibility with Racking & Equipment – Forklifts, pallet jacks, and automated storage systems are built around standard dimensions. Using a non‑standard pallet can lead to wasted space or even damage to equipment.
- Shipping Efficiency – Carriers calculate freight rates based on pallet size and weight. Standard pallets fit into containers and trucks more predictably, which often translates into lower shipping costs.
- Inventory Management – Consistent pallet sizes simplify counting, stacking, and locating inventory in a busy warehouse.
- Cost & Availability – The more common a size, the cheaper and easier it is to source. Custom‑cut pallets can cost 20–40 % more.
2. Quick Reference: Most Common Wood Pallet Dimensions
Below are the three “big leagues” of wood pallets you’ll encounter most often. All dimensions are in inches (the metric equivalents are provided for reference).
| Region | Pallet Name | Nominal Size (L × W) | Metric Approx. (mm) | Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North America | GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) | 48 × 40 | 1219 × 1016 | Grocery, retail, ecommerce |
| Standard (Industrial) | 48 × 48 | 1219 × 1219 | Heavy‑duty freight, automotive | |
| Half‑Size | 48 × 24 | 1219 × 610 | Small parts, B2B shipments | |
| Europe | Euro‑Pallet (EUR/EPAL) | 1200 × 800 | 1200 × 800 | General freight, pallets pool system |
| EUR‑2 (B1‑Pallet) | 1200 × 1000 | 1200 × 1000 | Bulk goods, agricultural | |
| EUR‑3 (Half‑Euro) | 800 × 600 | 800 × 600 | Small parcels, airline cargo | |
| Asia (Japan & China) | JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) | 1100 × 1100 | 1100 × 1100 | Electronics, automotive |
| CN (China) Standard | 1200 × 1000 | 1200 × 1000 | Export containers, bulk cargo |
How to Read the Table
- Nominal Size – The most common “as‑built” measurement. Actual boards may be a fraction of an inch larger or smaller; most industry standards allow a ±½‑inch tolerance.
- Metric Approx. – Rounded to the nearest 10 mm for quick reference.
- Typical Use Cases – A short guide to help you decide which size fits your product line best.
3. Deep‑Dive: When to Choose Each Size
3.1 GMA 48 × 40 (North America)
- Best for: Grocery items, consumer packaged goods, ecommerce parcels.
- Why you’ll love it: The 48‑inch length matches most standard racking bay depths (48‑inch, 60‑inch). The 40‑inch width aligns with most truck aisle widths, maximizing cube utilization.
3.2 Euro‑Pallet 1200 × 800 (Europe)
- Best for: Anything moving across European borders, especially when using the EPAL pooling system.
- Why you’ll love it: The Euro‑pallet is owned by a network of 350+ pallet providers; you can exchange used pallets for a small fee, eliminating the need to purchase new wood every time.
3.3 JIS 1100 × 1100 (Asia)
- Best for: High‑value, lightweight products (electronics) and automotive parts.
- Why you’ll love it: The square shape fits perfectly into most Japanese automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS).
3.4 Half‑Size & Half‑Euro (48 × 24 or 800 × 600)
- Best for: Small, high‑volume SKUs, or when you need to double‑stack pallets in a single bay.
- Why you’ll love it: They allow you to create “double‑deep” loads without sacrificing stability.
4. How to Measure a Pallet Correctly
- Place the pallet on a flat surface.
- Measure the outer dimensions (including the over‑hang of the stringers).
- Record the length first, then width – this avoids confusion when feeding data into inventory software.
- Check the height – most standard wood pallets are 5.5 in (140 mm) tall, but “deck‑and‑stringer” designs can be up to 6.5 in (165 mm). Height matters for stacking limits.
Tip: Keep a small tape measure in your pocket or attach a printed size chart to your forklift cabin for quick reference.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I have to stick to one pallet size for all my products? | No. It’s common to use multiple pallet sizes within a single facility, especially if you stock both small accessories and bulky items. Just be sure your racking and material‑handling equipment can accommodate each size. |
| Are wooden pallets reusable, or should I treat them as disposable? | Wood pallets can be reused many times if they’re inspected for damage (cracks, splinters, broken boards). Many logistics providers have “pallet return” programs that let you send pallets back for refurbishment at a low fee. |
| What’s the difference between a stringer and a deck pallet? | Stringer pallets have three (or sometimes four) parallel wood beams (stringers) running the length; the deck boards are nailed on top. Deck pallets are fully decked with a solid sheet of wood or plywood on the top and bottom. Deck pallets are generally stronger and better for heavy loads. |
| Can I order custom dimensions? | Yes, but custom pallets cost more and may not fit standard racking or transport equipment. It’s usually more economical to stick with standard sizes unless your product’s dimensions truly demand a custom solution. |
| How do I properly dispose of old wood pallets? | Many municipalities accept wood pallets for recycling; the wood can be chipped for mulch or used as biomass fuel. Avoid burning pallets that have been treated with chemicals (e.g., heat‑treated “HT” pallets) because they can release toxic fumes. |
| Are there any safety concerns with wooden pallets? | Always inspect for splinters, loose nails, or broken boards before handling. Use gloves when moving pallets, and never stand on a pallet that’s been damaged or improperly stacked. |
| What does “HT” (heat‑treated) mean on a pallet? | HT pallets have been heat‑treated to kill pests, meeting ISPM 15 standards for international shipping. They are safe for most indoor uses but cannot be burned. |
| Is there a universal pallet tracking system? | Many companies use RFID tags or QR codes affixed to pallets for real‑time tracking. While not universal, the technology is becoming a standard part of warehouse management systems (WMS). |
| Which pallet size maximizes container space? | For a 20‑foot container (≈1,172 × 2,350 mm interior), two rows of Euro‑pallets (1200 × 800) stacked three high fit perfectly. In North America, 48 × 40 pallets also stack efficiently when loaded as a double‑deep configuration. |
6. Quick Decision Checklist
| ✔️ Need | ✅ Recommended Pallet Size |
|---|---|
| Shipping to U.S. retailers (grocery, e‑comm) | 48 × 40 (GMA) |
| European B2B freight, using EPAL network | 1200 × 800 (Euro‑pallet) |
| Small, high‑volume SKUs (e.g., electronics accessories) | 800 × 600 (Half‑Euro) |
| Heavy machinery parts, need maximum strength | 48 × 48 (Industrial) or Deck‑type |
| Export from Japan/China, need square pallets for AS/RS | 1100 × 1100 (JIS) |
| Limited storage height, want to double‑stack | Half‑size (48 × 24) or Half‑Euro (800 × 600) |
If you’re still unsure, start with the most common size for your region and test it in your workflow before committing to a larger purchase.
7. Take Action Today
- Print the table above and hang it near your receiving dock.
- Audit your current pallet inventory – note dimensions, condition, and usage frequency.
- Match your product dimensions to the nearest standard pallet size.
- Reach out to a local pallet supplier and ask for a sample of each size you’re considering.
By aligning your operations with the right pallet dimensions, you’ll boost storage efficiency, cut transportation costs, and keep your supply chain humming.
Ready to standardize your pallet strategy? Drop a comment below with the pallet size you’re using most, and let’s discuss how to optimize it for your business!