Standard pallet FAQ · Updated
What Are the Dimensions of a Standard Pallet?
In logistics, “standard pallet” usually means the 48×40 in (1219×1016 mm) Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) pallet in North America or the 1200×800×144 mm Euro pallet (EPAL 1) in Europe. Both offer four-way entry, standardised tolerances, and published load ratings for safe intermodal moves.
What counts as a standard pallet?
The answer changes with geography:
- 48×40 GMA pallet: Common across US and Canada grocery, CPG, and retail supply chains. Typically three stringers, seven top boards, and four-way entry.
- 1200×800 EPAL 1: Mandated dimensions within the EPAL exchange pool, including HT treatment, 78 nails, and nine blocks.
Other formats (1200×1000, 1067×1067, 1100×1100 mm) remain “standard” for specific sectors but are not the default choice when buyers say “standard pallet” without qualifiers.
Dimensions & tolerances
| Spec | GMA 48×40 | Euro EPAL 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Footprint | 1219 × 1016 mm (48 × 40 in) | 1200 × 800 mm (47.2 × 31.5 in) |
| Height | ≈140–165 mm (5.5–6.5 in) | 144 mm (5.7 in) |
| Nominal weight | ≈15.9 kg (35 lb) | ≈25 kg (55 lb) |
| Dynamic load | ≈1,134 kg (2,500 lb) | 1,500 kg (3,307 lb) |
| Tolerances | ±3 mm width, ±4 mm length (typical pooled spec) | ±3 mm width, ±4 mm length (per EPAL) |
Download standard pallet dimensions for offline use.
Load and compliance tips
Plan stack height
Combine pallet height and carton HI inside the TI‑HI calculator to avoid sprinkler or trailer clearance issues.
Verify treatments
Export loads need heat-treated (HT) marks. EPAL pallets ship with HT baked in. For North America, request ISPM 15 HT pallets or consider plastic pallets for ISPM-free moves.
Double-check weights
Use the weight calculator to confirm gross pallet weight remains inside the published limits.
FAQ
Are 48×40 and EPAL pallets interchangeable?
Not directly—48×40 pallets are wider than Euro pallets, so choose one footprint per load plan unless your racks support mixed sizes.
Does a standard pallet include overhang?
A pallet’s published dimension excludes any product overhang. Keep at least 25 mm (1 in) clearance from rack uprights.