Pallet Size Guide
A comprehensive reference for standard pallet dimensions used across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Find the right size for your industry, application, and shipping requirements.
Why Size Matters
Pallet dimensions are one of the most critical factors in supply chain efficiency. The right pallet size maximizes trailer and container utilization, minimizes product damage, ensures compatibility with racking systems, and reduces shipping costs. Using the wrong pallet size can waste up to 20% of available trailer space and significantly increase your per-unit logistics costs.
Pallet dimensions are always expressed as Length x Width (the “footprint”), where the length is the dimension of the stringer board (the longer side) and the width is the dimension of the deck boards. In the US, dimensions are given in inches; internationally, dimensions are in millimeters.
The height of a pallet is typically not specified because it depends on the construction type. Standard wood pallets range from approximately 5 to 7 inches tall. Presswood and nestable plastic pallets can be as thin as 3.5 inches. Understanding pallet height is important for calculating total load height in trailers and on racks.
Quick Reference
How to Measure a Pallet
Accurate pallet measurements are essential for ordering the right size, calculating trailer and container fit, and ensuring compatibility with your racking systems and handling equipment. Here is a detailed guide to measuring pallets correctly, with all the terminology you need to communicate effectively with suppliers.
Always measure the pallet's actual dimensions rather than relying on nominal sizes. Wood pallets can vary by up to half an inch from their nominal dimensions due to manufacturing tolerances and wood shrinkage. For automated systems, even a quarter-inch discrepancy can cause jams or handling failures.
Overall Length
Measure the longest dimension of the pallet, which runs parallel to the stringer boards (for stringer pallets) or along the longest side of the deck. For a standard GMA pallet, this is the 48-inch dimension. Place your tape measure at the outside edge of one end and extend it to the outside edge of the opposite end. Do not measure individual boards; measure the entire assembled pallet.
Length is always the stringer-board direction (the boards that run the full length of the pallet without interruption).
Overall Width
Measure the dimension perpendicular to the length. This is the direction of the deck boards (the boards that form the top and bottom surfaces). For a standard GMA pallet, this is the 40-inch dimension. Measure from the outside edge of one side to the outside edge of the opposite side.
Width is always the deck-board direction (the boards nailed across the top of the stringers).
Overall Height
Measure from the bottom of the lower deck (or ground level if no bottom deck) to the top surface of the upper deck boards. Standard wood stringer pallets are typically 5.5 to 6.5 inches tall. Block pallets are usually 5.5 to 6 inches. Presswood pallets can be as thin as 3 to 3.5 inches. This measurement is critical for calculating total unit load height for trailers and racks.
Height determines how many layers of palletized product fit in a trailer (110" usable height).
Fork Entry Openings
Measure the height and width of the openings where forklift forks or pallet jack forks enter the pallet. Standard fork entry height is approximately 3 to 3.5 inches. Width of each opening is typically 7 to 9 inches for stringer pallets. Block pallets and four-way entry pallets have openings on all four sides. Two-way entry pallets only have openings on two sides.
Verify fork entry works with your specific forklift model. Standard forks are 4" wide and 1.5" thick.
Deck Board Dimensions
Measure the width and thickness of individual deck boards. Standard top deck boards are 3.5 to 5.5 inches wide and 5/16 to 3/4 inch thick. Bottom deck boards (bottom boards) are typically the same width but may be thinner. Also measure the gaps between deck boards; standard spacing is 2.5 to 4 inches. Closer spacing provides better support for small or fragile items.
More deck boards = better weight distribution. Full-deck (no gaps) pallets are used for small items.
Stringer / Block Dimensions
For stringer pallets, measure the stringer cross-section (typically 1.5" wide x 3.5" tall, made from 2x4 lumber). Stringers may have notches cut to allow partial four-way fork entry. For block pallets, measure the block dimensions (typically 3.5" x 3.5" x 3.5" solid wood blocks). Standard pallets use 3 stringers or 9 blocks (4 corners, 4 edges, 1 center).
Notched stringers allow four-way forklift entry. Un-notched stringers are two-way entry only.
Pallet Anatomy Glossary
Standard US & Canadian Pallet Sizes
The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) established the 48x40 pallet as the industry standard in the 1960s, and it remains the most widely used pallet size in North America. However, many industries have adopted different sizes optimized for their specific products and handling requirements.
| Size (L x W) | Metric (mm) | Weight Cap. | Primary Industries | Trailer Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48" x 40"GMA Standard | 1219 x 1016 | 2,500 lbs | Grocery, retail, general manufacturing, consumer goods. The GMA standard used by ~30% of all pallets produced in the US. | 20-21 |
| 42" x 42" | 1067 x 1067 | 2,500 lbs | Telecommunications, paint, and coatings industry. Square footprint ideal for cylindrical containers and telecom equipment. | 16-18 |
| 48" x 48" | 1219 x 1219 | 2,800 lbs | Beverage industry, drums, barrels, and bulk containers. Square shape maximizes space for round containers. | 18-20 |
| 40" x 48" | 1016 x 1219 | 2,500 lbs | Military (MIL-STD) and cement industry. Same footprint as GMA but rotated 90 degrees for specific loading patterns. | 20-21 |
| 48" x 42" | 1219 x 1067 | 2,500 lbs | Chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Used for drums, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), and totes. | 18-20 |
| 48" x 45" | 1219 x 1143 | 2,500 lbs | Automotive industry. Optimized for auto parts bins, engine components, and assemblies. | 18-20 |
| 36" x 36" | 914 x 914 | 1,800 lbs | Beverage industry (smaller loads), electronics, and small-format retail. Fits inside standard shipping containers more efficiently for smaller loads. | 24-28 |
| 48" x 36" | 1219 x 914 | 2,200 lbs | Beverage, paper, and printing industries. Narrower width allows double-stacking in certain configurations. | 22-24 |
| 44" x 44" | 1118 x 1118 | 2,400 lbs | Drum shipping, chemical industry. Optimized for 55-gallon drums (four per pallet). | 16-18 |
| 60" x 48" | 1524 x 1219 | 3,000 lbs | Oversized loads, appliances, HVAC equipment, large machinery. Used when products exceed standard pallet dimensions. | 14-16 |
| 48" x 20" | 1219 x 508 | 1,500 lbs | Half-pallet for retail display, in-store promotions, and point-of-sale. Designed to fit through standard doorways. | 40-42 |
| 56" x 44" | 1422 x 1118 | 2,800 lbs | Lumber, building materials, and large appliances. Extra-wide footprint for oversized goods. Common in home improvement distribution. | 14-16 |
| 48" x 24" | 1219 x 610 | 1,800 lbs | Narrow-aisle warehousing, retail end-cap displays, and door-width deliveries. Used when standard pallets are too wide for the application. | 36-40 |
Trailer fit assumes a standard 53-foot semi-trailer (102" internal width x 636" internal length). Actual fit depends on loading pattern, pallet orientation, and trailer specifications. Weight capacity shown is typical dynamic load capacity for Grade A wood stringer pallets.
European & International Sizes
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has recognized six standard pallet sizes for global use (ISO 6780). In Europe, the European Pallet Association (EPAL) manages the EUR pallet system, which uses strictly controlled dimensions and quality standards. If you are shipping internationally, selecting the right pallet size for your destination market is essential.
| Designation | Size (mm) | Size (inches) | Weight Cap. (Dynamic) | Primary Region & Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EUR 1 (EPAL 1)EU Standard | 800 x 1200 | 31.5" x 47.2" | 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs) | Europe (primary). The most widely used pallet in Europe, managed by the European Pallet Association. Four-way entry block pallet with 78 nails, 144mm height. Used across all industries in 30+ countries. Over 600 million in circulation. |
| EUR 2 (EPAL 2) | 1200 x 1000 | 47.2" x 39.4" | 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs) | Europe (secondary). Larger footprint for bulkier loads. Common in the automotive and industrial sectors. Also widely used in Asia. Heavier construction than EUR 1. |
| EUR 3 (EPAL 3) | 1000 x 1200 | 39.4" x 47.2" | 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs) | Europe (beverages and bulk). Same dimensions as EUR 2 but rotated. Commonly used in the beverage, dairy, and bulk goods industries. Compatible with European truck dimensions. |
| EUR 6 (EPAL 6) | 800 x 600 | 31.5" x 23.6" | 500 kg (1,102 lbs) | Europe (half-pallet). Quarter of EUR 1 footprint. Used for retail display, in-store promotions, and small shipments. Fits inside EUR 1 footprint. Popular with supermarket chains for floor-ready displays. |
| EUR 7 (EPAL 7) | 800 x 600 | 31.5" x 23.6" | 500 kg (1,102 lbs) | Europe (lightweight half-pallet). Similar to EUR 6 but with a lighter construction. Designed specifically for retail display applications. Lower cost alternative to EUR 6. |
| Asia Standard (T11) | 1100 x 1100 | 43.3" x 43.3" | 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs) | Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand. The JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) T11 pallet. Square pallet optimized for Asian shipping container dimensions. Fits 10 per 20' container and 21 per 40' container. |
| China Standard | 1200 x 1000 | 47.2" x 39.4" | 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs) | China (GB/T 2934). China's national standard aligns with the EUR 2 and ISO 6780 specification. Rapidly becoming the dominant size in Chinese supply chains as the country standardizes its logistics infrastructure. |
| India Standard | 1200 x 1000 | 47.2" x 39.4" | 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs) | India (IS 15577). India adopted the 1200x1000mm standard, aligned with international ISO standards. Used across manufacturing, pharmaceutical, and export-oriented industries. |
| Australian Standard | 1165 x 1165 | 45.9" x 45.9" | 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs) | Australia and New Zealand. Managed by CHEP and used throughout Australian supply chains. Square design suits Australian truck and rail dimensions. Bright blue CHEP pallets are the most recognizable in the market. |
| South African | 1200 x 1000 | 47.2" x 39.4" | 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs) | South Africa. Uses the ISO-standard 1200x1000mm size. The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) certifies pallet quality. CHEP South Africa manages the largest pool of rental pallets in the region. |
| North American (GMA) | 1219 x 1016 | 48" x 40" | 1,134 kg (2,500 lbs) | USA, Canada, Mexico. The GMA standard recognized internationally by ISO. Most produced pallet size in the world by volume. Over 2 billion in use across North America. |
| Brazilian Standard | 1000 x 1200 | 39.4" x 47.2" | 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs) | Brazil (PBR I and PBR II). The PBR (Pallet Padrao Brasil) system uses 1000x1200mm dimensions. Managed by ABRAS, the Brazilian Supermarket Association. Two-way and four-way entry variants available. |
Load Capacity by Size
Understanding load capacity is essential for safe pallet selection. There are three types of load capacity to consider: dynamic load (weight capacity while the pallet is being moved by a forklift), static load (weight capacity while the pallet is sitting on a flat floor), and racking load (weight capacity while the pallet is supported only at its edges on a rack). Racking load is always the lowest because the pallet must support the entire load with no center support.
The capacities below are for standard wood stringer pallets in Grade A condition. Actual capacity depends on wood species, moisture content, board thickness, fastener pattern, and load distribution. Block pallets typically have 15-25% higher capacity than stringer pallets of the same size. Always verify load requirements with your pallet supplier.
| Pallet Size | Dynamic Load | Static Load | Racking Load | Empty Weight | Pallet Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48" x 40" (GMA) | 2,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 33-48 lbs | 6.5" |
| 48" x 40" (Block) | 2,800 lbs | 6,000 lbs | 2,500 lbs | 45-55 lbs | 6" |
| 48" x 48" | 2,800 lbs | 5,500 lbs | 2,200 lbs | 40-55 lbs | 6.5" |
| 42" x 42" | 2,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 35-45 lbs | 6" |
| 48" x 45" | 2,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 38-50 lbs | 6.5" |
| 40" x 48" (MIL) | 2,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 35-48 lbs | 6.5" |
| 36" x 36" | 1,800 lbs | 3,600 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 25-35 lbs | 5.5" |
| 48" x 36" | 2,200 lbs | 4,400 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 30-42 lbs | 6" |
| 44" x 44" | 2,400 lbs | 4,800 lbs | 1,900 lbs | 35-48 lbs | 6" |
| 60" x 48" | 3,000 lbs | 6,000 lbs | 2,400 lbs | 50-70 lbs | 6.5" |
| 48" x 20" (Half) | 1,500 lbs | 3,000 lbs | 1,200 lbs | 18-28 lbs | 5.5" |
| EUR 1 (800x1200mm) | 3,307 lbs | 12,125 lbs | 2,205 lbs | 55-66 lbs | 5.7" |
Important: Load capacity values are guidelines for standard Grade A hardwood stringer pallets with uniformly distributed loads. Actual capacity depends on wood species (hardwood vs. softwood), moisture content (kiln- dried lumber is stronger), number and spacing of deck boards, fastener type and count, and whether the load is uniformly distributed or concentrated. Always consult with us if you are loading near maximum capacity or placing pallets on racking.
Size Selection Guide
Choosing the right pallet size involves balancing several factors: your product dimensions, total load weight, shipping method, warehouse racking system, and destination market. Use the decision guide below to narrow down your options based on your specific situation. If you are still unsure after reviewing this guide, our specialists can help you select the optimal size for your application.
The goal is to choose the smallest pallet that safely supports your product without overhang (product extending past the pallet edge, which causes damage and handling problems) while maximizing trailer or container utilization. Product overhang of more than one inch on any side is generally unacceptable and will cause issues in automated warehouses and racking systems.
What is your product footprint?
Measure the length and width of your product case or unit when arranged in its shipping pattern. The pallet should be equal to or slightly larger than the product footprint. For example, if your cases arrange in a 47" x 39" pattern, the standard 48x40 GMA pallet is ideal. Avoid pallets that are more than 2 inches larger than your product footprint on any side, as this wastes space and can allow load shifting.
Match pallet to product footprint within 1-2"
What is your total load weight?
Calculate the total weight of all products stacked on a single pallet, including packaging and stretch wrap. Compare this to the dynamic load capacity of each pallet size (the capacity while the pallet is being moved). You should never load a pallet to more than 80% of its rated dynamic capacity to maintain a safety margin. For racked pallets, use the racking load capacity instead.
Stay at or below 80% of rated capacity
How are you shipping?
If shipping via standard 53-foot trailers in the US, the 48x40 GMA pallet is optimized for maximum trailer utilization (20-21 pallets per trailer). If shipping in 20-foot or 40-foot ISO containers, EUR 1 (800x1200mm) pallets actually fit more efficiently. If shipping internationally, choose the standard size for your destination market to ensure compatibility with local handling equipment and racking.
Match pallet to your primary shipping mode
What racking system do you use?
Selective racking, drive-in racking, and flow racking all have specific beam spacing designed for standard pallet sizes. Measure the clear opening between rack uprights and the depth of the rack beams. The pallet must fit within these dimensions with appropriate clearance (typically 2-4 inches on each side). Most US racking systems are built for 48x40 pallets. European racking is built for EUR 1 (800x1200mm).
Verify rack dimensions before ordering non-standard sizes
Are you shipping internationally?
If your products are destined for Europe, use EUR 1 (800x1200mm) pallets. For Japan, South Korea, or Southeast Asia, use the 1100x1100mm Asia Standard. For Australia, the 1165x1165mm Australian Standard is recommended. Using the local standard at destination ensures compatibility with the receiving facility's equipment and avoids repalletization costs at destination, which can range from $5-15 per pallet.
Use the destination country's standard size
What industry are you in?
Some industries have adopted specific pallet sizes as de facto standards. Automotive uses 48x45, chemical and drum shipping uses 48x48 or 44x44, military uses 40x48 (MIL-STD), and beverage uses 48x48 or 36x36. Using the industry-standard size ensures compatibility with your customers' receiving equipment and warehouse systems. Deviating from the industry standard may result in surcharges or refused deliveries.
Follow your industry's standard when applicable
Pallet Footprint Optimization
One of the biggest opportunities to reduce shipping costs is optimizing how many pallets fit in a trailer or container. Inefficient pallet loading can waste 10-25% of available space, costing thousands of dollars per year in unnecessary freight charges. The relationship between pallet size, trailer dimensions, and container dimensions determines how many pallets you can fit in each shipment.
Below are the standard pallet-to-vehicle loading configurations for the most common trailer and container types. These numbers assume single-layer (floor-loaded) pallets. If your product allows double-stacking (two pallets high in the trailer), you can double the quantities shown. Maximum trailer height is typically 110 inches (from floor to ceiling), so each pallet plus its load must be under 55 inches for double-stacking.
| Pallet Size | 53' Trailer | 48' Trailer | 40' Container | 20' Container | Floor Utilization |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48" x 40" (GMA) | 20-21 pallets | 18-20 pallets | 20 pallets | 10 pallets | 88-92% |
| EUR 1 (800x1200mm) | 24-26 pallets | 22-24 pallets | 23-24 pallets | 11-12 pallets | 91-95% |
| 48" x 48" | 18-20 pallets | 16-18 pallets | 18 pallets | 8 pallets | 84-88% |
| 42" x 42" | 22-24 pallets | 20-22 pallets | 20 pallets | 10 pallets | 82-86% |
| 48" x 45" | 18-20 pallets | 16-18 pallets | 18 pallets | 8 pallets | 85-89% |
| Asia 1100x1100mm | 22-24 pallets | 20-22 pallets | 21 pallets | 10 pallets | 87-91% |
| 36" x 36" | 28-30 pallets | 24-28 pallets | 28 pallets | 14 pallets | 80-84% |
| 48" x 20" (Half) | 40-42 pallets | 36-40 pallets | 38-40 pallets | 18-20 pallets | 85-89% |
Trailer Interior Dimensions
53-Foot Dry Van Trailer
636" L x 102" W x 110" H (internal)
The US standard. Internal width of 99-102" accommodates two 48x40 pallets side-by-side (40" + 40" = 80") with the 48" dimension running lengthwise down the trailer. Loading 20-21 pallets in a single row uses approximately 90% of available floor space.
48-Foot Dry Van Trailer
576" L x 102" W x 110" H (internal)
Common in regional trucking and intermodal transport. Fits 18-20 standard 48x40 pallets. Used in urban distribution where 53-foot trailers are restricted by local ordinances.
40-Foot ISO Container (High Cube)
472" L x 92" W x 102" H (internal)
The global standard for ocean freight. Internal width of 92" is narrower than US trailers, so 48x40 pallets must be loaded with the 40" side across the width. Fits 20 standard GMA pallets or up to 24 EUR 1 pallets (better utilization).
20-Foot ISO Container
232" L x 92" W x 95" H (internal)
Half the length of a 40-foot container. Fits 10 standard 48x40 pallets or 11-12 EUR 1 pallets. Commonly used for LCL (less-than-container-load) shipments and heavy, dense cargo where weight limit is reached before volume limit.
Optimization Tips
Small improvements in pallet loading efficiency can add up to significant cost savings over time. Here are proven strategies to maximize your trailer and container utilization.
Pin-Wheel Loading Pattern
Alternate pallet orientation (some lengthwise, some widthwise) to fill gaps. This can add 1-2 extra pallets per trailer compared to straight loading, particularly with 48x40 pallets.
Double-Stack When Possible
If your product allows it, stacking two pallets high doubles your capacity per shipment. Ensure total height (two pallets + two loads) stays under 110 inches for US trailers or 102 inches for containers.
Consider EUR 1 for Container Shipping
The EUR 1 pallet (800x1200mm) fits 20% more efficiently in ISO containers than the 48x40 GMA pallet. If you ship primarily via ocean containers, switching to EUR 1 pallets can reduce your container count significantly.
Use Half-Pallets for Partial Loads
When you have leftover space after loading full pallets, half-pallets (48x20) can fill the gap without wasting an entire pallet position. This is common in mixed-load distribution.
Right-Size Your Pallets
If your standard pallet is consistently loaded with small products that only cover 60-70% of the surface, consider a smaller pallet size. You will fit more pallets per trailer and reduce wasted deck space.
International Standards
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures)
ISPM-15 is an international phytosanitary measure developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) that applies to all solid wood packaging materials used in international trade. Its purpose is to prevent the spread of invasive insects and plant diseases through wood packaging.
Under ISPM-15, all solid wood packaging (including pallets, crates, and dunnage) must be treated using one of two approved methods before crossing international borders:
- Heat Treatment (HT): The wood core temperature must reach a minimum of 56 degrees Celsius (132.8 degrees F) for at least 30 continuous minutes. This is the most common method.
- Methyl Bromide Fumigation (MB): Chemical treatment that kills wood-boring insects. Being phased out in many countries due to environmental concerns (ozone depletion).
Treated pallets must be stamped with the IPPC logo, the country code, the producer number, and the treatment method (HT or MB). Pallets without this stamp will be rejected at international borders and may result in fines, delays, or quarantine of the entire shipment.
Note: Plastic, metal, presswood, and corrugated pallets are exempt from ISPM-15 because they do not harbor wood-boring pests.
EUR / EPAL Standards
The European Pallet Association (EPAL) manages the world's largest pallet pool, with over 600 million EUR pallets in circulation. EPAL pallets are manufactured to strict quality standards and are fully interchangeable across all participating countries.
Each EUR/EPAL pallet is individually marked with the EPAL logo, manufacturer code, and production year. Quality control includes regular audits of licensed manufacturers and repair companies. The system operates on an open pool principle, meaning pallets can be freely exchanged between supply chain partners.
Key specifications for the EUR 1 pallet: 800mm x 1200mm footprint, 144mm height, 78 nails, maximum load 1,500 kg (dynamic) / 5,500 kg (static). Constructed from softwood (typically spruce, pine, or fir), heat treated to ISPM-15 standards.
Other International Standards
- ISO 6780: Defines the six standard pallet sizes recognized for international use, enabling global interoperability.
- ISO 8611: Specifies testing methods for flat pallets, including stacking, racking, and compression tests.
- NWPCA (National Wooden Pallet and Container Association): US-based industry standards for pallet design, grading, and heat treatment certification.
- MIL-STD-1660: US military standard for pallets used in defense logistics. Specifies the 40x48 size with specific construction and marking requirements.
- JIS T11 (Japanese Industrial Standard): Defines the 1100x1100mm pallet standard used across Japan and much of East Asia. Specifies construction, testing, and marking requirements for domestic and international use.
- GB/T 2934 (China National Standard): China's national pallet standard specifying the 1200x1000mm dimension, construction quality, and testing protocols for pallets used in Chinese commerce and export.
Which Size for Your Industry?
Different industries have gravitated toward specific pallet sizes based on their product dimensions, handling equipment, and shipping requirements. Here is a guide to the most common sizes used in each major industry.
Grocery & Retail
48" x 40"The GMA standard dominates this sector. Sized to maximize trailer space while accommodating standard retail product case dimensions. Compatible with all grocery distribution center automation and racking systems. Accounts for roughly 30% of all new pallets produced annually.
20-21 pallets per 53' trailer
Beverage
48" x 48" / 36" x 36"Square pallets are preferred for beverages because they better accommodate round containers and cases. The 48x48 fits large beverage palletizing patterns, while the 36x36 is used for smaller loads and convenience store distribution.
Optimized for round containers
Automotive
48" x 45"The automotive industry uses a slightly wider pallet to accommodate auto parts bins and engine component containers. This size is optimized for the rack systems and conveyor equipment common in automotive assembly plants and tier-1 supplier facilities.
Compatible with automotive rack systems
Chemical & Drums
48" x 48" / 44" x 44"Chemical companies need pallets that safely support 55-gallon drums. The 44x44 holds exactly four drums in a square pattern with minimal overhang. The 48x48 provides extra margin and is preferred for double-stacked drum configurations.
Fits 4x 55-gallon drums per pallet
Pharmaceutical
40" x 48" / EUR 1Pharmaceutical companies often use both US and European sizes depending on distribution markets. HDPE plastic pallets in these sizes are preferred for cleanroom and GMP environments. Consistent, precision dimensions are critical for automated warehouse systems.
Plastic preferred for cleanroom use
Military / Defense
40" x 48" (MIL-STD)US military logistics uses the 40x48 pallet (same footprint as GMA but with the 40-inch dimension leading). Built to MIL-STD-1660 specifications with specific construction, marking, and treatment requirements. These pallets are designed for air drop compatibility.
MIL-STD-1660 compliant
Custom Sizing
Standard pallet sizes work for most applications, but many businesses benefit from custom-sized pallets engineered specifically for their products. A custom pallet can eliminate wasted space, reduce product damage, and improve handling efficiency.
We build custom pallets in virtually any dimension from as small as 12 x 12 inches to as large as 10 x 12 feet. Our engineering team uses Pallet Design System (PDS) software to optimize board thickness, spacing, and fastener patterns for your specific load requirements. Every custom design is validated for static, dynamic, and racking load capacities.
Custom sizing is particularly valuable when you need to maximize container utilization for international shipping, accommodate non-standard product dimensions, fit specific racking systems, or create display pallets for retail environments.
Custom Sizing Process
Needs Assessment
We gather information about your product dimensions, weight, stacking requirements, handling methods, and shipping environment.
Engineering Design
Our team uses PDS software to create an optimized pallet design, selecting the right materials, board spacing, and fastener patterns.
Prototype & Testing
We build a prototype for your approval and can perform load testing to verify performance meets your specifications.
Production & Delivery
Once approved, we ramp up production and deliver on your schedule. Minimum order quantities vary by design complexity.
Need Help Choosing the Right Size?
Our pallet specialists can recommend the optimal size based on your products, shipping methods, and budget. Get expert guidance at no cost.