Pallet Specifications Guide

Everything you need to know about pallet sizes, grades, and materials

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Standard Pallet Sizes

Common pallet dimensions and their typical applications

Standard North American

48" x 40"

Most common size in North America, ideal for general shipping and warehousing

Common Industries:Retail, Manufacturing, Logistics

Square Pallet

48" x 48"

Better for odd-sized loads and multi-directional handling

Common Industries:Automotive, Heavy Equipment

European Standard

47.2" x 39.4" (1200mm x 1000mm)

Common for international shipping and European markets

Common Industries:Import/Export, International Logistics

Half Pallet

48" x 20"

Space-saving option for smaller loads and retail displays

Common Industries:Retail, Food Service, E-commerce

Quarter Pallet

24" x 20"

Compact size for point-of-sale displays and small shipments

Common Industries:Retail Displays, Small Business

Drum Pallet

48" x 48" or Custom

Reinforced design for drums, barrels, and cylindrical containers

Common Industries:Chemical, Oil & Gas, Food Processing

Custom Sizes Available

Need a non-standard size? We can build custom pallets to your exact specifications for unique products or special applications.

Pallet Grades Explained

Understanding quality grades helps you choose the right pallet for your budget and needs

Grade A

Premium Quality

Like-new or gently used pallets in excellent condition with minimal wear

Best Uses:High-visibility applications, export shipping, clean room environments
Uniform appearance
No stains or damage
Tight board spacing
Suitable for food contact

Grade B

Good Quality

Structurally sound pallets with some cosmetic wear but fully functional

Best Uses:General warehousing, domestic shipping, standard operations
Sturdy construction
Minor cosmetic flaws
Repaired as needed
Cost-effective

Grade C

Economy Grade

Functional pallets with visible wear, ideal for single-use or light duty

Best Uses:One-way shipping, DIY projects, temporary storage, outdoor use
Budget-friendly
May have repairs
Rustic appearance
Environmentally conscious

Pallet Materials

Different wood types offer different benefits

Hardwood

Made from oak, maple, or other hardwoods. Extremely durable and long-lasting, ideal for heavy loads.

Advantages:

High load capacity, excellent durability, heat-treated options available

Considerations:

Heavier weight, higher cost

Softwood

Typically pine or spruce. Lightweight and cost-effective for general use.

Advantages:

Lightweight, affordable, readily available, easy to repair

Considerations:

Less durable than hardwood, lower weight capacity

Composite/Pressed Wood

Engineered wood products made from wood particles and adhesives.

Advantages:

Consistent quality, no nail pops, moisture resistant, no splinters

Considerations:

Not repairable, limited recycling options

Load Capacity Guidelines

Static Load

5,500 lbs

Maximum weight when pallet is stationary on the ground with weight evenly distributed

Dynamic Load

2,500 lbs

Maximum weight when pallet is lifted and moved by forklift or pallet jack

Racked Load

2,000 lbs

Maximum weight when pallet is placed on warehouse racking with support at edges

Important: Load capacities vary based on pallet condition, wood type, and construction. Always verify capacity requirements with our team before use.

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