There are many standard pallet sizes, varying between countries and industries. A review of these standard pallet dimensions are found in Packaging Revolution’s article Standard Pallet Sizes in Inches and Centimeters; The Strategic Importance of Choosing the Right Size.
Six ISO Standard Pallet Dimensions
Six pallet sizes are sanctioned by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), which are listed below in inches (length by width) along with the region in which they are predominately found:
48 x 40 – North America
47.24 x 39.37 – Europe, Asia
45.9 x 45.9 – Australia
42 x 42 – North America, Europe, Asia
43.3 x 43.3 – Asia
47.24 x 31.5 – Europe
Standard Pallet Sizes in North America
According to Packaging Revolution’s article, “When people think about the standard dimensions in North America, they rightfully think of the 48×40-inch pallet, which became popular in the 1960s.”
The 48×40 pallet is still the most popular pallet today, making up 35% of pallets produced. An article by the NWPCA points out that, while the 48×40 pallet is the most popular dimensional pallet by a wide margin, “the predominant pallet size is the ‘other’ category, indicating that custom pallets (39% of pallets) are the most widely used pallets in the U.S.”
Packaging Revolution lists some of the other common pallet sizes used in the U.S., and the industries in which each size is used. A few popular sizes include 42×42 (telecommunications, paint), 48×48 (drums), and 40×48 (military, cement).
Why are Standard Pallets Important?
Packaging Revolution gives multiple answers to this question. Standard pallet sizes:
- Enhance efficiency as it relates to the use of material handling equipment designed to support a particular pallet size
- Enhance flexibility regarding ease of engaging alternate supply chain partners who all use the standard pallet
- Allow for scale and competition
- Promote recovery and reuse
Bizfluent’s article on Typical Wood Pallet Sizes points out that, “While pallets may be any size, standard sizes have been developed in consideration of the places that full pallets are stored.” Because standard pallet sizes typically fit in trucks and shipping containers and in warehouse bays and racking systems, they:
- Enhance efficiency in transportation by enabling the maximum amount of goods to be shipped without wasting space
- Enhance efficiency in storage by saving warehouse space and preventing accidents
General Pallets offers standard GMA 48×40 pallets as well as many other pallet options. Custom designs are our specialty, so we can meet your shipping needs no matter how complicated they are. Contact General Pallets today!
