Standard Pallet Sizes Explained: A Complete Guide for Businesses
Pallets may look simple, but the size you choose has a major impact on your supply chain. From how products fit in a trailer to how they’re stored in a warehouse, pallet dimensions affect efficiency, cost, and safety every step of the way.
For many businesses, “standard pallet sizes” can be confusing. Which one is right for your shipments? In this guide, we’ll break down the most common pallet sizes, why they matter, and how they’re used in different industries across the U.S. and around the world.
Why Pallet Size Matters
The right pallet size isn’t just about convenience, it’s about performance.
Shipping Efficiency: Using the correct pallet size allows you to maximize space inside trucks, containers, or warehouses. That means more products per load and fewer wasted dollars on shipping empty space.
Product Protection: When goods fit properly, they’re less likely to shift, topple, or sustain damage during transit.
Industry Compliance: Many industries have standard sizes for safety and compatibility. If you’re exporting, international standards and ISPM-15 heat treatment are critical to avoid delays.
Choosing the right dimensions helps ensure smoother logistics and better bottom-line results.
The Most Common Standard Pallet Sizes in the U.S.
In North America, several pallet sizes dominate shipping and warehousing. Each has its place depending on the industry and product type.
48” x 40” (GMA Pallet): The most widely used pallet in the U.S., approved by the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA). It’s common in retail, food, and consumer goods, and is considered the default “standard.”
42” x 42”: Popular for telecommunications, beverages, and packaged paints. This square format provides stability for stacked goods.
48” x 48”: Used for large, heavy products such as drums, bulk liquids, and chemicals. It offers even weight distribution across wider loads.
40” x 48”: Common in groceries and retail, this slight variation is widely accepted across many industries.
36” x 36”: Smaller but sturdy, often chosen in the beverage industry for soda and beer distribution.
Each of these sizes is widely available and designed to meet the needs of specific industries, which is why knowing your sector’s standard matters.
International Pallet Sizes
If your supply chain extends beyond the U.S., it’s important to understand international standards.
Europe (EUR/EPAL Pallet: 1200mm x 800mm): The most common size in Europe, also called the “Euro Pallet.” It’s used in nearly all EU countries for compatibility in trucks and storage systems.
Asia (1100mm x 1100mm): Widely used in China, Japan, and other Asian markets. Its square design provides stability and makes it versatile for various cargo types.
Australia (1165mm x 1165mm): The Australian standard, built specifically to fit in shipping containers without wasted space.
For all international shipments, pallets must meet ISPM-15 heat treatment regulations to prevent the spread of pests and ensure smooth border crossings.
Choosing the Right Pallet Size for Your Business
Not every business needs the same pallet. The “right” size depends on what you’re shipping, how it’s being transported, and where it’s going.
Match size to product type and weight: Heavy or bulky items may require wider pallets like 48” x 48”, while lighter, packaged goods often fit best on 48” x 40”.
Consider your industry standards: Many sectors, like groceries, beverages, or chemicals, already rely on specific pallet sizes for consistency. Aligning with those standards helps your supply chain run more smoothly.
Factor in transportation mode: A pallet that fits perfectly in a truck trailer may not optimize space in a shipping container. Always think ahead to your mode of transport.
Plan for international compliance: If you’re exporting, make sure pallets meet ISPM-15 standards and match destination country requirements.
The key is working with a supplier who can guide you to the right fit for your operations, whether that’s a widely used GMA pallet or a custom build designed for your product.
Hallwood’s Expertise in Pallet Sizing
At Hallwood, we’ve spent over four decades helping businesses match the right pallets to their supply chain needs.
Full Range of Solutions: From GMA-standard 48” x 40” pallets to custom sizes, recycled options, and specialty crates, we provide products built for every industry.
Nationwide Reach: With partnerships in 30+ states, we deliver pallets where and when you need them consistently and reliably.
Sustainability First: Our recycled pallet program and tree-planting initiatives ensure that performance doesn’t come at the cost of the environment.
Trusted by Industry Leaders: From Fortune 500s to family-owned businesses, companies count on Hallwood for the right pallets at the right time.
With Hallwood, you don’t just get pallets, you get a partner who understands your industry, your products, and the standards that keep your shipments moving.
Pallet size isn’t one-size-fits-all. Choosing the right dimensions protects your products, reduces costs, and keeps your supply chain running efficiently. From the widely used GMA standard to custom solutions, the right pallet makes all the difference.
Hallwood delivers more than pallets. We deliver confidence, sustainability, and peace of mind so your business can keep moving forward.
📞 Prefer to talk now? Call us at (757) 357-3113 or request a quote today to find the pallet size that’s right for your business.
