Step 1: Unit Information
Carton Box / Bag DataStandard pallet sizes
| Pallet | Size (mm) | Size (inches) | Where it is used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Euro pallet (EPAL 1) | 1200 × 800 | 47.2 × 31.5 | Europe; the most common pallet in European logistics |
| Industrial / ISO (EPAL 2) | 1200 × 1000 | 47.2 × 39.4 | Europe, Middle East, Africa, chemicals and bulk bags |
| North American (GMA) | 1219 × 1016 | 48 × 40 | United States and Canada |
| Asia / Australia | 1100 × 1100 and 1165 × 1165 | 43.3 × 43.3 / 45.9 × 45.9 | Japan, Korea and Australia |
| Half pallet | 800 × 600 | 31.5 × 23.6 | Retail and display |
ISO 6780 recognises six pallet sizes, including the 1200 × 800, 1200 × 1000 and 48 × 40 inch pallets above. Always confirm the pallet standard your customer or warehouse accepts.
How a pallet load is calculated (TI × HI)
Warehouses describe pallet loads as TI × HI. TI is the number of cartons in one layer and HI is the number of layers. A pattern of 10 cartons per layer stacked 5 high is a 10 × 5 load of 50 cartons.
- Height limit — most distribution centres accept loaded pallets up to about 1.8–2.0 m, including the pallet itself; container door height is about 2.28 m in a standard box and 2.58 m in a high cube.
- Weight limit — check both the pallet's rated load and your racking; a Euro pallet is commonly rated around 1,500 kg for an evenly spread load.
- Overhang — cartons hanging over the pallet edge get crushed; aim for zero overhang.
- Interlocking layers — rotating alternate layers makes the load more stable, at the cost of some cartons per layer.
Pallets per container
| Container | Euro pallets (1200 × 800) | Standard pallets (1200 × 1000) |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft standard | about 11 | 9–10 |
| 40ft standard / high cube | about 23–24 | 20–21 |
Single-stacked, floor-loaded figures. Double-stacking is possible when the load is stable and the goods can bear the weight. For exact container fits use the CBM and container loading calculator and the container dimensions library.
Export rules for wooden pallets (ISPM 15)
Most countries require solid-wood packaging, including pallets and crates, to meet the international standard ISPM 15. The wood must be heat treated (marked HT) or fumigated (MB) and carry the IPPC stamp. Plastic pallets and pallets made of processed wood such as plywood or OSB are exempt. Unmarked wood can be refused, treated or destroyed at the border at the shipper's cost.
Frequently asked questions
What is the size of a Euro pallet?
A Euro pallet (EPAL 1) is 1200 × 800 mm and 144 mm high.
What is the standard pallet size in the USA?
The GMA pallet, 48 × 40 inches (1219 × 1016 mm), is the most common pallet in the United States.
What does TI HI mean on a pallet?
TI is the number of cartons per layer and HI is the number of layers. TI × HI gives the total cartons on the pallet.
How many pallets fit in a 40ft container?
About 23–24 Euro pallets or 20–21 standard 1200 × 1000 pallets, single-stacked.
Do plastic pallets need ISPM 15 treatment?
No. ISPM 15 applies to solid wood packaging. Plastic, metal and processed-wood pallets such as plywood are exempt.