Types of Pallets and Their Dimensions in Transportation

Large-scale goods transportation requires efficient logistics solutions, and one of the key elements is the pallet. Pallets enable effective storage, loading, and transportation of goods, taking into account the different types and sizes of pallets.

In this article, we will cover euro pallet dimensions as well as other types, including wooden, plastic, metal, and transport pallets used globally.

What Are Pallets and When Are They Used?

Pallets are platforms with a rigid base that allow for stable and safe transport of various goods. They are most commonly made from wood, plastic, or metal. Their main purpose is to facilitate the handling of cargo using internal transport equipment such as forklifts, reach trucks, or pallet jacks.

Pallets are used across nearly all industries: food, automotive, chemical, and pharmaceutical. They allow smaller packages to be placed on a stable base, reducing the risk of product damage during transport.

Why Are Pallets So Useful in Transport?

Using pallets in logistics offers several key benefits:

• Logistics efficiency – faster loading and unloading,

• Transport safety – reduced risk of damage,

• Optimal space usage – e.g. euro pallets fit perfectly in trailers and containers,

• Standardization – easier planning and storage.

Their dimensions directly influence how many units can be loaded into a vehicle, affecting transport costs. They also help optimize warehouse space and reduce packaging material usage.

Materials and Features of Pallet Construction

Pallet types vary not only in dimensions but also in material, which impacts their usage, weight, and durability:

• Wooden pallets – the most common, economical, and repairable; weigh around 23.5 kg; ideal for the logistics industry where standard solutions are essential; compatible with all forklift types.

• Plastic pallets – lighter, moisture-resistant, commonly used in the food and pharmaceutical industries; made from durable plastics, easy to clean, but more expensive than wooden ones.

• Metal pallets – more durable, designed for heavy loads; used in the chemical and automotive industries; perfect for transporting heavy, non-standard cargo.

Most Popular Pallet Types – Types and Dimensions

There are many pallet types differing in dimensions, construction, and use. The most commonly used include:

• Euro pallets – standard size 1200 x 800 mm; widely used in Europe and compliant with EPAL standards,

• American pallets (stringer pallets) – 1200 x 1000 mm; popular in North America,

• Industrial pallets – larger than euro pallets, mainly used in industrial sectors,

• One-way pallets – lightweight, designed for single use, often in the food industry,

• Special pallets – custom-designed for transporting non-standard goods.

American vs. European Pallets

These are the two most widely used pallet standards in logistics. Each has its distinct characteristics:

• American pallets – larger (1200 x 1000 mm), more durable, ideal for international shipping; useful in automotive and chemical sectors due to their construction.

• Euro pallets – smaller (1200 x 800 mm), more universal and easier to store in space-limited warehouses; compliant with EPAL standards ensuring quality and durability.

Features of Euro Pallets

The euro pallet (also known as the EPAL pallet) is the most common pallet type in Europe. It is compatible with most warehouse systems and forklifts. Made from wood, its construction ensures strength and longevity, even under intensive use.

Key features:

• Standardization – strict manufacturing standards guarantee quality,

• Versatility – suitable for various industries including food and pharma,

• Durability – supports loads up to 1500 kg.

Features of American Pallets

American (stringer) pallets are popular in North America and play a key role in global logistics. Their standard size is 1200 x 1000 mm, making them larger than euro pallets. They're often used for heavy or oversized cargo.

Main characteristics:

• Larger dimensions – more surface area for large or heavy goods,

• High durability – made from high-quality wood or metal, resistant to damage,

• Versatility – suitable for domestic and international transport, especially for exports to the US and Canada.

They are especially suited for the automotive, chemical, and food sectors.

Key Differences Between American and European Pallets

Special Pallets

Special pallets are custom-designed to meet the transport needs of non-standard cargo. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and constructions, making them essential for specific logistics needs:

• Metal pallets – for transporting very heavy goods,

• Plastic pallets – for high-hygiene industries like food,

• One-way pallets – light and cost-effective, commonly used in international transport when returns are not required.

These pallets enable the safe handling of delicate, non-standard, or heavy products like industrial machinery, chemicals, or pharmaceuticals.

How Pallet Dimensions Affect Transport Costs and Efficiency

Pallet dimensions are crucial to logistics efficiency and cost control. Euro pallets allow optimal use of space in transport vehicles and warehouses. Standard-sized pallets streamline loading processes, reducing the number of required vehicles. Properly sized pallets improve product safety and handling by forklifts or automated systems.

AsstrA: Comprehensive Logistics Support for Your Business

AsstrA specializes in end-to-end logistics and transportation services. We offer a wide range of solutions tailored to your needs, including transport using various pallet types. Our industry expertise and market knowledge allow us to optimize logistics processes, saving you time and costs. Whether you use euro pallets, American pallets, or custom solutions, we ensure your cargo arrives safely and on time.

Logistic Pallets FAQ: Types, Materials, and Applications in Modern Supply Chains

What are the different types of pallets used in logistics?

There are several types of pallets used in logistics operations, each designed for specific applications. The most common are wooden pallets, plastic pallet, metal pallets, paper pallets, block pallets, stringer pallets, flat pallets, solid deck pallets, double face pallets, and double wing pallets. Each type of pallet offers unique features in terms of load bearing capacity, weight capacity, and compatibility with pallet jacks and pallet trucks.

For example, block pallets and stringer pallets are often used across different industries due to their stability and ease of handling. When choosing the right pallet, it is essential to consider your unit load, handling equipment, and logistics operations.

Why are wooden pallets still the most widely used?

Wooden pallets, also known as wood pallets, remain dominant due to their cost effectiveness, availability, and flexibility in pallet designs. Hardwood pallets offer greater strength and are ideal for heavy loads, while softwood options are lighter and cheaper.

The use of wood packaging material complies with international standards, especially when treated using an appropriate treatment method such as heat treatment or fumigation. In North America, wooden pallets are preferred for their balance of load capacity and initial investment.

What is the difference between plastic and metal pallets?

Plastic pallet options, often made of high density polyethylene, are ideal for cleanroom environments and international trade. They are resistant to moisture, pests, and chemical spills, making them excellent for pharmaceutical and food industries.

Metal pallets, especially steel pallets, provide the highest weight capacity and are perfect for heavy loads in industrial settings. They are highly durable and long-lasting but come with a higher initial investment. Metal pallets are especially suited to rural and regional areas where durability outweighs cost.

How do pallet designs impact logistics operations?

Pallet designs directly impact logistics operations and shipping costs. Features such as top deck, bottom deck, deck boards, and entry points determine how pallets can be lifted, stacked, and transported. Four way pallets allow access from all sides, making them ideal for modern warehouse staff and transport goods more efficiently.

Solid deck pallets are often used in automated systems to ensure smooth operation, while double wing pallets provide extended surface area for bulky loads. The right design improves operational efficiency and reduces hidden costs.

What are the most common pallet sizes?

The most common pallet sizes vary by region and application. In North America, the standard size is 48” x 40”, which supports efficient use of space in shipping containers and trucks. Common pallet sizes are also influenced by international standards to facilitate international trade and reduce shipping costs.

Understanding pallet measurements and matching them with your load weight and load capacity ensures optimal usage. Whether you're using two way pallet, four way pallets, or deck pallets, selecting the right standard sizes minimizes damage and improves stability.

How does pallet material affect logistics and cost?

Pallet material significantly influences the cost effectiveness and sustainability of your supply chain. Wood, plastic pallet, metal pallets, and paper pallets all serve specific purposes. For instance, paper pallets are lightweight and recyclable, often used for air freight.

Other materials, including composites, offer high strength with reduced initial investment. The choice of pallet material depends on environmental conditions, shipping industry standards, and handling equipment. Ensuring the right material is selected helps reduce shipping costs, maintain unit load stability, and improve load bearing capacity.

What handling equipment is compatible with pallets?

Pallet jacks and pallet trucks are the primary handling equipment used to move pallets within warehouses and shipping facilities. They are designed to handle flat pallets, block pallets, and deck pallets efficiently. Compatibility with entry points and bottom deck design is crucial for seamless operation.

Warehouse staff should be trained to match the pallet designs with the correct tools to avoid accidents and ensure operational efficiency. This is especially important when transporting heavy loads or delicate goods in international trade.

How do pallets affect shipping costs?

Pallets play a vital role in determining shipping costs. Poorly chosen or oversized pallets can increase load weight, decrease truck capacity, and lead to additional costs in transportation. Two pallets of incorrect dimensions may take more space than one optimally chosen solid deck pallet with the same unit load.

Using the right pallet sizes, materials, and pallet designs contributes to efficient transport goods planning, reduces additional costs, and ensures compliance with international standards. In sectors like the shipping industry, optimizing pallet usage can significantly reduce expenses and streamline logistics workflows.