Pallet Types & Sizes
A comprehensive guide to help you choose the right pallet for your application. From standard sizes to custom solutions.
Explore our complete range of pallet types and sizes
Pallets in use in US
Most common size (GMA)
New pallets made yearly
Pallets are recycled
Pallet Types
Different pallet designs serve different purposes. Here's a detailed look at each type.
GMA Pallets (48x40)
48" x 40" x 6"The most common pallet in North America, used by grocery and retail industries. Named after the Grocery Manufacturers Association. This is the de facto standard for consumer goods distribution across the United States and Canada.
Common Uses
- Grocery distribution
- Retail stores
- Warehousing
- General shipping
- Food & beverage
- Consumer goods
Features
- Four-way entry
- Standard forklift compatible
- Most widely available
- Easy to source replacements
- Fits standard racking
- Optimal for truck loading
Construction Specifications
Block Pallets
Various sizes availableBuilt with nine blocks (corner, edge, and center) between deck boards for superior strength and true four-way entry. Preferred for heavy loads, automated systems, and international shipping. The blocks provide excellent load distribution and durability.
Common Uses
- Heavy manufacturing
- International shipping
- Automated systems
- High-value goods
- Pallet pooling
- Pharmaceutical
Features
- True four-way entry
- Higher load capacity
- More durable
- Rackable design
- Better for automation
- Longer lifespan
Construction Specifications
Stringer Pallets
48" x 40" standardTraditional pallet design using stringers (2x4 or 3x4 boards running length-wise) to support the deck. This is the most economical option and the easiest to repair. Available in notched (partial four-way) or non-notched (two-way) designs.
Common Uses
- General shipping
- One-way trips
- Light to medium loads
- Cost-sensitive applications
- Export shipments
- Agricultural
Features
- Two-way or partial four-way entry
- Most economical
- Easy to repair
- Widely available
- Lightweight
- Good for hand-jacks
Construction Specifications
Euro Pallets (EUR/EPAL)
47.24" x 31.5" (1200x800mm)European standard pallet developed by the European Pallet Association (EPAL). Smaller footprint than GMA pallets, optimized for European truck dimensions and warehouse systems. Required for many European retailers and manufacturers.
Common Uses
- European exports
- International trade
- Container shipping
- Automotive industry
- European retailers
- EU warehouses
Features
- EPAL certified available
- Four-way entry
- International standard
- Consistent quality
- Beveled corners
- Pooling compatible
Construction Specifications
Custom Pallets
Any size availableBuilt to your exact specifications for unique applications, automated systems, or non-standard products. Our engineering team can design pallets for any requirement including oversized loads, specific weight capacities, or automated handling systems.
Common Uses
- Specialized equipment
- Automated warehouses
- Unique products
- Display applications
- Heavy machinery
- Oversized loads
Features
- Exact specifications
- Engineered designs
- Material options
- Branding available
- Load testing available
- CAD drawings provided
Construction Specifications
Half Pallets (24x40)
24" x 40" x 5"Compact pallets designed for retail display and point-of-sale applications. Half the size of standard GMA pallets, making them ideal for store aisles, promotional displays, and smaller quantities.
Common Uses
- Retail displays
- Point of sale
- Club stores
- Promotional items
- Fresh produce
- Small quantities
Features
- Easy handling
- Fits standard racking
- Retail-friendly size
- Nestable options
- Display ready
- Lightweight
Construction Specifications
Quarter Pallets (24x20)
24" x 20" x 4"The smallest standard pallet size, designed specifically for retail display applications. Perfect for small quantities, promotional displays, and point-of-sale installations in store aisles.
Common Uses
- In-store displays
- Promotional pallets
- Checkout areas
- Sample displays
- End caps
- Small quantity shipping
Features
- Stackable
- Display ready
- Easy to move
- Store-friendly
- Lightweight
- Cost effective
Construction Specifications
Reversible Pallets
Various sizes availablePallets designed with identical top and bottom decks, allowing them to be used either side up. This doubles the usable life of the pallet and provides a flat, stable surface on both sides.
Common Uses
- Warehousing
- Double-sided display
- Heavy-duty applications
- Floor storage
- Multi-purpose
- Extended life applications
Features
- Double-sided use
- Longer lifespan
- Stable surface both sides
- No top/bottom orientation
- Better value long-term
- Symmetrical design
Construction Specifications
Standard Pallet Sizes
While we offer custom sizes, these are the most common industry-standard dimensions.
| Size | Name | Primary Use | Industries | Container Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48" x 40" | GMA Pallet | Grocery, Retail - 30% of all pallets | Consumer goods, Food, Retail | 20 per 40' container |
| 42" x 42" | Telecom/Paint | Paint, Telecom industries | Telecommunications, Coatings | 22 per 40' container |
| 48" x 48" | Drum Pallet | Drums, Barrels, Square goods | Chemical, Petroleum | 18 per 40' container |
| 48" x 42" | Chemical/Beverage | Chemical, Beverage industries | Beverage, Industrial | 19 per 40' container |
| 40" x 40" | Dairy Pallet | Dairy products distribution | Dairy, Refrigerated foods | 25 per 40' container |
| 48" x 45" | Automotive | Automotive parts & components | Automotive, Manufacturing | 18 per 40' container |
| 44" x 44" | Drums/Chemicals | Chemical drums & liquids | Chemical, Hazmat | 21 per 40' container |
| 36" x 36" | Beverage | Beverage cases & bottling | Beverage, Bottling | 28 per 40' container |
Pallet Entry Types
How forklifts and pallet jacks can access the pallet affects handling flexibility.
Two-Way Entry
Forklift or pallet jack can only enter from two sides (typically the 40" sides on a GMA pallet)
Advantages
- Most economical
- Simple construction
- Strong stringers
Considerations
- Limited forklift access
- Requires specific positioning
- Not ideal for tight spaces
Best for: Simple operations, one-way shipping, stacking applications
Partial Four-Way (Notched)
Two-way for forklifts, four-way for pallet jacks. Notches cut in stringers allow pallet jack entry from all sides.
Advantages
- Versatile handling
- Pallet jack from all sides
- Good balance of cost/function
Considerations
- Notches reduce strength
- More expensive than two-way
- Limited forklift angles
Best for: Warehousing, retail, distribution centers
True Four-Way (Block)
Full forklift and pallet jack access from all four sides. Achieved through block construction.
Advantages
- Maximum handling flexibility
- Best for automation
- True four-way forklift entry
Considerations
- Most expensive
- More complex construction
- Heavier weight
Best for: Automated warehouses, heavy industry, pooling operations
Deck Board Coverage
The spacing between deck boards affects load support and pallet weight.
Standard Deck
Standard gap spacing between deck boards for ventilation and drainage
Best for: General purpose, good balance of strength and weight
Close Deck
Minimal gaps between boards for better support of small items
Best for: Bagged goods, boxes, items that might fall through gaps
Full Deck (Solid)
No gaps between boards, plywood or solid board coverage
Best for: Small parts, hardware, bags of powder, maximum support
Open Deck
Wider gaps between boards for maximum weight reduction
Best for: Large containers, drums, applications where gaps are acceptable
Wood Types
The wood type affects durability, weight, cost, and compliance. Here's how to choose.
Softwood (Pine, Spruce)
Advantages
- Most economical option
- Lightweight
- Easy to repair
- Widely available
Considerations
- Less durable than hardwood
- Prone to moisture damage
- May splinter
Best for: General shipping, one-way trips, light loads, export shipments
Lifespan: 3-5 trips or 1-2 years
Hardwood (Oak, Maple)
Advantages
- Very durable construction
- Higher load capacity
- Longer lifespan
- Resists damage
Considerations
- More expensive initially
- Heavier weight
- Harder to repair
Best for: Heavy loads, multiple trips, racking systems, pooling programs
Lifespan: 10-15 trips or 3-5 years
Heat Treated (ISPM-15)
Advantages
- ISPM-15 compliant
- Pest-free certified
- International shipping approved
- No fumigation needed
Considerations
- Higher processing cost
- Must be properly marked
- Requires certification
Best for: International exports, food industry, regulated shipping, EU/Asia markets
Lifespan: Same as wood type base
Combination (Mixed Species)
Advantages
- Cost-effective option
- Uses available materials
- Good strength profile
- Balances cost and durability
Considerations
- Inconsistent appearance
- Variable characteristics
- May have mixed durability
Best for: General purpose, budget-conscious applications, single-use
Lifespan: Varies by construction
Understanding Load Capacity
Pallet load capacity varies based on how the pallet is being used. Always verify the load capacity for your specific application.
Static Load
Maximum weight when pallet is stationary on floor
Typical: 2,500-6,000 lbs
Dynamic Load
Maximum weight when being moved by forklift
Typical: 2,000-4,500 lbs
Racking Load
Maximum weight when supported only at edges in racking
Typical: 1,500-3,000 lbs
Edge Support
Load capacity when edges are fully supported
Typical: Higher than racking
Load Capacity Guidelines
Concentrated loads reduce capacity significantly
Racked loads are typically 50% of static capacity
Use 80% of rated capacity for safety margin
Damaged pallets have reduced capacity
Industry Recommendations
Different industries have different pallet requirements. Here's what we recommend.
| Industry | Recommended Type | Grades | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food & Beverage | GMA 48x40, Heat Treated | Grade A or Grade B | Food-grade quality, clean pallets, no contamination. Heat treatment required for export. |
| Pharmaceutical | Block Pallets, Heat Treated | Grade A only | Clean, pest-free, traceable. Documentation required. GMP compliance. |
| Automotive | Block Pallets, 48x45 | Grade A or B | High load capacity, consistent dimensions. Often requires specific specs. |
| Retail/Grocery | GMA 48x40 | Grade A, B, or C | Standard sizes for store compatibility. Half pallets for displays. |
| Manufacturing | Custom or Block | Based on application | Heavy loads may require custom design. Consider automation requirements. |
| Chemical | 48x48 Drum Pallets | Grade A or B | Spill containment considerations. May require specific construction. |
| Export/International | Heat Treated (Any size) | Must be ISPM-15 compliant | ISPM-15 stamp required. Documentation needed. Consider destination standards. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about pallet types, sizes, and specifications.
What is the most common pallet size?
The 48" x 40" GMA pallet is the most common in North America, accounting for approximately 30% of all pallets in circulation. This size was standardized by the grocery industry and is now used across many sectors.
What is the difference between block and stringer pallets?
Stringer pallets use 2-4 long boards (stringers) running the length of the pallet to support the deck. Block pallets use 9 blocks at corners, edges, and center. Block pallets offer true four-way forklift entry and generally higher load capacity, but cost more. Stringer pallets are more economical and easier to repair.
How much weight can a pallet hold?
Load capacity varies by pallet type, construction, and condition. A standard GMA stringer pallet typically holds 2,500 lbs dynamic load (when being moved). Block pallets can hold 3,500-4,500 lbs or more. Static loads (pallet at rest) are typically higher. Always verify load capacity for your specific pallets.
Do I need heat-treated pallets for shipping?
Heat treatment (ISPM-15 compliance) is required for most international shipments to prevent the spread of pests through wood packaging. Domestic shipments generally do not require heat treatment unless specified by the receiver (common in food and pharmaceutical industries).
How do I choose between pallet grades?
Grade A (premium) pallets look like new with minimal wear, best for food and display applications. Grade B pallets show normal wear but are structurally sound, good for general shipping. Grade C (economy) pallets have more visible wear but meet weight requirements, ideal for one-way or cost-sensitive use.
Can you make custom size pallets?
Yes, we manufacture custom pallets to any specification. Our team can design pallets for unique products, automated systems, or non-standard requirements. We provide CAD drawings and can perform load testing for engineered applications.
Not Sure What You Need?
Our team can help you determine the right pallet type, size, and grade for your specific application. We'll consider your load requirements, shipping methods, and budget.
Ready to Order?
Contact us for pricing on any pallet type or size. We offer volume discounts and custom solutions.
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