European Wooden Pallet Sizes – What You Need to Know
If you ship, store, or handle goods across Europe, the dimensions of the pallet you choose can make the difference between a smooth operation and a costly bottleneck. While the iconic Euro‑pallet (EUR‑1) is the most recognisable, the continent actually uses a handful of standard wooden pallet sizes, each with its own set of regulations, load capacities, and best‑fit applications.
In this guide you will:
- Discover the most common European wooden pallet dimensions.
- Understand the standards that govern them (EN, ISO, ISPM‑15, etc.).
- Learn how to pick the right pallet for your product, transport mode, and warehouse layout.
- Get quick reference tables for size, weight, and load capacity.
- Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about European pallets.
Everything is presented in second‑person (“you”) so you can instantly see how each piece of information applies to your own logistics chain.
1. Why Size Matters in Europe
1.1 Compatibility with Euro‑pallet‑centric infrastructure
European logistics networks – from truck bays and forklift aisles to automated storage/retrieval systems (AS/RS) – were built around the Euro‑pallet (1200 mm × 800 mm). If you deviate from this size, you risk:
- Reduced pallet stacking efficiency – fewer pallets per layer in a truck or container.
- Higher handling costs – forklifts may need to be repositioned more often.
- Compliance penalties – some rail and inter‑modal operators only accept EN‑standard pallets.
1.2 Regulatory compliance
All wooden pallets that cross EU borders must meet ISPM‑15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15). This means the pallet must be heat‑treated or fumigated and carry the “Wheat Stamp”. Non‑compliant pallets can be rejected at the border, causing delays and extra fees.
1.3 Environmental and cost considerations
Standardised wooden pallets can be re‑used, repaired, and recycled. By sticking to EN‑approved sizes, you maximise the chances of finding a local pallet pool, reducing the need for expensive new pallets and the carbon footprint of your supply chain.
2. The Core European Pallet Standards
Below is a quick snapshot of the most widely used wooden pallet types in Europe. The table includes dimensions (mm), gross weight, maximum static load (the weight a pallet can support when stationary), and maximum dynamic load (the weight allowed during handling/movement).
| Pallet Code | Dimensions (L × W × H) | Typical Gross Weight | Max Static Load | Max Dynamic Load | Standard Body |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EUR‑1 (Euro‑pallet) | 1200 × 800 × 144 | 25 kg (empty) | 1 500 kg | 1 000 kg | EN 13698‑1 |
| EUR‑2 (Industrial) | 1200 × 1000 × 144 | 24 kg | 2 000 kg | 1 200 kg | EN 13698‑2 |
| EUR‑3 (Half‑Euro) | 800 × 600 × 144 | 22 kg | 1 200 kg | 800 kg | EN 13698‑3 |
| EUR‑4 (Euro‑pallet – alternate) | 1200 × 800 × 144 (different construction) | 30 kg | 2 000 kg | 1 200 kg | EN 13698‑4 |
| EUR‑5 (Euro‑pallet – reversible) | 1200 × 800 × 144 | 28 kg | 1 800 kg | 1 200 kg | EN 13698‑5 |
| EPAL 1‑2‑3 (Custom) | 1200 × 1000 × 144 | 26 kg | 2 500 kg | 1 500 kg | EPAL (European Pallet Association) |
| Pallet‑1200‑600 (Half‑Euro‑2) | 1200 × 600 × 144 | 20 kg | 1 500 kg | 1 000 kg | ISO 6780 (optional) |
Note: Height (H) is typically 144 mm for most European pallets, but custom or “deep” pallets can be 200 mm–300 mm high for added volume.
2.1 What the codes mean
- EUR‑1 – The classic Euro‑pallet, recognised worldwide.
- EUR‑2 – Larger footprint, often used for heavy industrial components (engine blocks, steel coils).
- EUR‑3 – A “half‑Euro” pallet that fits into tight aisles or is used for smaller loads.
- EUR‑4 & EUR‑5 – Variations of EUR‑1 with reinforced construction for higher load limits.
- EPAL 1‑2‑3 – Pallets certified by the European Pallet Association; the numbers indicate load rating (1 = light, 2 = medium, 3 = heavy).
- ISO 6780 – A generic standard that defines pallets with a 1200 × 1000 mm footprint, frequently used for oversized goods.
3. Choosing the Right Pallet for Your Business
3.1 Evaluate your product dimensions
- Measure the longest side of the product (including packaging).
- Add a 20‑30 mm clearance on each side to allow for shrink‑wrap and handling.
- Match the resulting footprint to the smallest pallet that can accommodate it.
Example: If you ship a box that is 1150 mm × 750 mm, the EUR‑1 (1200 × 800 mm) fits comfortably, while the EUR‑3 would be too small.
3.2 Calculate weight requirements
- Static load is critical for storage racks. If your rack is rated for 1 200 kg per level, you must not exceed that figure even if the pallet’s dynamic rating is higher.
- Dynamic load matters for forklift and conveyor handling. Over‑loading can cause pallet breakage, leading to product damage and safety incidents.
3.3 Consider your transport mode
| Transport Mode | Preferred Pallet Size(s) | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Road (full‑truckload) | EUR‑1, EUR‑2 | Maximises 2‑pallet rows per truck, standard loading patterns. |
| Rail (intermodal) | EUR‑1, EUR‑2, EPAL | Most rail wagons are built for EUR‑1 stacking; higher‑capacity pallets reduce the number of wagons needed. |
| Sea (container) | EUR‑1 (2‑deep) or EUR‑2 (single‑deep) | 2‑deep stacking of EUR‑1 yields 20‑30 % more cubic utilisation. |
| Air freight | Custom‐size, lightweight pallets | Weight is premium; sometimes pallets are omitted altogether. |
3.4 Storage layout and equipment
- Forklift tines: Standard tines are spaced 300 mm apart, which aligns perfectly with the 800 mm width of EUR‑1. If you use a pallet with a 1000 mm width, ensure your forklift can reach the outer tines.
- Racking depth: Typical racking depth is 1500 mm–1800 mm. Stacking two EUR‑1 pallets (1200 mm length) will fit comfortably, but three EUR‑2 pallets (1200 mm length) may exceed depth limits.
3‑step checklist before committing
- Dimension match? – Verify product fits with clearance.
- Load rating? – Confirm static & dynamic loads are within pallet limits.
- Equipment compatibility? – Check forklift, pallet jack, and rack dimensions.
4. The Lifecycle of a European Wooden Pallet
- Manufacturing – Pallets are produced to EN 13698 specifications, using soft‑wood (spruce, pine) or hardwood for heavy‑duty versions.
- Inspection & Certification – EPAL‑certified pallets carry a unique identification number (UIN) that traces the pallet back to the manufacturer.
- Use & Repair – Minor damage (splintered boards, loose nails) can be repaired on‑site. EPAL pallets require a repair seal after each fix.
- Return & Re‑use – Pallets circulate in a “closed‑loop” pool. The more you stick to standard sizes, the easier it is to return pallets to the pool and avoid purchasing new ones.
- End‑of‑Life – Pallets that cannot be repaired are either re‑shredded for MDF or used for bio‑fuel.
Environmental tip: By choosing EPAL pallets and participating in their return program, you can lower your carbon footprint by up to 15 % compared to using single‑use, non‑standard pallets.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do all European pallets have to carry the ISPM‑15 stamp? | Yes. Any wooden pallet crossing an EU border must be heat‑treated (HT) or fumigated (MB) and display the “Wheat Stamp”. This applies to EUR‑1, EUR‑2, EUR‑3, and any custom wooden pallet. |
| Can I use a Euro‑pallet for food‑grade products? | Absolutely, provided the pallet is clean, untreated, and free of hazardous chemicals. Many manufacturers offer food‑grade EPAL pallets with extra sanitation steps. |
| What’s the difference between EUR‑1 and EPAL‑1 pallets? | EUR‑1 refers to the size (1200 × 800 mm) while EPAL‑1 denotes a load class (light‑duty). An EPAL‑1 pallet can be an EUR‑1 size but is built to a lower load rating (≈1 200 kg static). |
| Are there plastic or metal alternatives that match European dimensions? | Yes. Plastic Euro‑pallets (ISO 6780 compliant) are gaining popularity for hygiene‑critical sectors. Metal pallets exist but are less common due to weight and cost. However, they conform to the same footprint standards, so they fit existing equipment. |
| How many EUR‑1 pallets can I stack in a standard 40‑ft container? | If you stack two pallets deep (EUR‑1) and four pallets high, you can fit 64 pallets (2 × 4 × 8) in a 40‑ft container, assuming 144 mm pallet height. |
| What happens if my load exceeds the pallet’s dynamic rating? | Exceeding dynamic ratings can cause board breakage during handling, leading to safety hazards, product damage, and possible insurance claims. Always stay within the dynamic limit for forklift or conveyor operations. |
| Can I custom‑order a pallet with a different height? | Yes. “Deep” pallets (200 mm–300 mm) are available and can increase cargo volume. However, you must verify that your handling equipment and storage racks can accommodate the extra height. |
| Is there a universal barcode or RFID for European pallets? | EPAL pallets carry a UIN barcode and many suppliers now embed RFID tags to enable real‑time tracking within the pallet pool. Integration with warehouse management systems (WMS) is straightforward. |
| Do I need to pay a fee to use EPAL‑certified pallets? | Typically, you pay a deposit when you take a pallet from the pool, which is refunded when you return it. Some logistics providers charge a small handling fee, but overall costs are lower than buying new pallets repeatedly. |
6. Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Most common size: EUR‑1 – 1200 × 800 mm, 25 kg, 1 500 kg static, 1 000 kg dynamic.
- Heaviest standard pallet: EUR‑2 – 1200 × 1000 mm, 2 000 kg static, 1 200 kg dynamic.
- Best for tight aisles: EUR‑3 – 800 × 600 mm.
- ISO‑compatible (generic): 1200 × 1000 mm – good for oversized goods.
- Compliance: All wooden pallets = ISPM‑15 + EN 13698 (or EPAL).
7. Final Thoughts – Your Next Steps
- Audit your current pallet inventory. Identify which sizes you already use and whether they meet EN standards.
- Map your transport routes. If you ship mainly by rail or inter‑modal containers, standardise on EUR‑1 or EUR‑2 to maximise cubic efficiency.
- Engage with a local EPAL pool. This will give you access to clean, certified pallets, reduce waste, and simplify returns.
- Implement a pallet‑tracking system. Barcode or RFID tags let you monitor pallet location, lifespan, and repair history, turning a simple wooden board into a data‑rich asset.
By aligning your pallet choices with the European standards outlined above, you’ll boost operational efficiency, stay regulation‑compliant, and contribute to a more sustainable supply chain. The next time you load a truck or seal a container, you’ll know exactly which pallet size is the right fit—and why it matters. Happy palletising!