How to Find the Right Pallet Size for Your Company’s Needs
Choosing the correct pallet size is a crucial step for any business that relies on the movement and storage of goods. The correct pallet size has a direct impact on shipping costs, warehouse efficiency, and product safety.
If a pallet is too small, it may not adequately support your load, which can lead to product damage and safety issues. On the other hand, oversized pallets can occupy valuable space in trucks and warehouses, resulting in higher costs.
This guide will help you understand the importance of pallet sizing, standard options, when to consider custom pallets, and how to work with a trusted supplier like Olympic Forest Products to find the perfect fit for your operation.
Why Pallet Size Matters in Logistics
Pallets are the foundation of modern logistics. They keep goods secure and make it easier to move products through every stage of the supply chain — from manufacturing to shipping to retail.
When pallet sizes are mismatched to products or storage systems, it can create inefficiencies like:
Increased transportation costs due to wasted space in trucks and containers.
Difficulty storing products in warehouse racking systems.
A higher likelihood of product damage during transit.
Slower loading and unloading times.
“The right pallet size is like having the right tool for the job — it helps everything run more smoothly, safely, and cost-effectively.”
Pallet Size Standards: What’s Common?
Most businesses rely on standard pallet sizes because they’re readily available and cost-efficient to produce. In the United States, the most common pallet size is the 48 x 40-inch GMA pallet, widely used across the retail, grocery, and consumer goods industries.
Some other common pallet sizes include:
42 x 42 inches – often used for telecommunications and paint products.
48 x 48 inches – popular in the chemical and beverage industries.
36 x 36 inches – frequently used for beverage or packaged goods.
Euro pallets – typically 800 x 1200 mm, a standard for international shipments.
Using standard sizes helps simplify storage and shipping, especially when moving goods through national or global networks.
When to Consider Custom Pallet Size
Standard pallets work for many applications, but there are situations where a custom pallet size is the better choice. Custom pallets are ideal for:
Irregularly shaped products that don’t fit standard dimensions.
Heavy loads that need additional structural support.
Fragile or high-value goods that require extra stabilization or protective features.
Specialized industries, such as aerospace, automotive, or industrial manufacturing.
While custom pallets typically cost more, they often reduce product damage and improve efficiency, making them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
“A custom pallet can be tailored to your exact needs, preventing costly waste and maximizing every inch of space.”
5 Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pallet Size
1. Product Dimensions and Weight
The pallet should match the footprint of your product or unit load as closely as possible. Consider both the dimensions and the total weight, ensuring even distribution across the pallet.
2. Storage Environment
Warehouse racking systems and shelving dictate certain pallet size requirements. Oversized pallets may not fit within certain racks or automated systems.
3. Transportation Requirements
Shipping containers, trucks, and forklifts all have their own space and handling limits. Choosing the wrong size can lead to inefficiencies or safety risks during transport.
4. Industry Standards and Compliance
Certain industries, like food and pharmaceuticals, have strict guidelines for pallet size and handling. For example, export shipments may require heat-treated pallets with ISPM-15 compliance.
5. Cost and Long-Term Use
Smaller or lighter pallets may cost less upfront but wear out faster. Heavier-duty pallets may be more expensive but offer a longer lifespan and lower total cost of ownership.
Pallet Size is The Foundation of an Efficient Supply Chain
Finding the right pallet size is a strategic investment in your business’s success. After all, the right fit reduces costs, protects products, and ensures smooth operations from start to finish.
If you’re unsure which pallet size is best for your needs, Olympic Forest Products is here to help.
How Olympic Forest Products Helps Determine the Right Pallet Size and Fit
We employ a consultative approach to help businesses select the ideal pallet size. Our process includes:
Detailed audits of current pallet usage to identify inefficiencies.
Unit load analysis to ensure pallets meet safety and performance standards.
Custom design services when standard pallets won’t suffice.
Ongoing support to adjust pallet solutions as your business grows and changes.
By leveraging decades of experience and advanced design tools, we help customers optimize their pallet strategy for better efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a smarter, more efficient pallet strategy.
