Reference Guide
Pallet Size Guide
The complete reference for pallet dimensions, weight capacities, and industry applications.
North American Standards
Standard Pallet Sizes
48" x 40"
1219 x 1016 mm
GMA / Grocery
ISO 1 (North America)(30% of all pallets in the US)Most common pallet size in North America. Standard for GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association). Compatible with most racking systems and automated equipment.
Weight
33-48 lbs (15-22 kg)
Dynamic Load
2,500 lbs (1,134 kg)
Static Load
5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
Rack Load
2,000 lbs (907 kg)
42" x 42"
1067 x 1067 mm
Telecom / Paint
(~5% of US pallets)Square shape optimizes space in ocean containers and intermodal equipment. Widely adopted by telecom and paint industries for its versatility.
Weight
35-45 lbs (16-20 kg)
Dynamic Load
2,200 lbs (998 kg)
Static Load
4,500 lbs (2,041 kg)
Rack Load
1,800 lbs (816 kg)
48" x 48"
1219 x 1219 mm
Drum / Industrial
(~5% of US pallets)Designed for 55-gallon drums (four per pallet). Extra-strong construction for heavy industrial loads. Square shape maximizes container utilization.
Weight
40-55 lbs (18-25 kg)
Dynamic Load
2,800 lbs (1,270 kg)
Static Load
6,000 lbs (2,722 kg)
Rack Load
2,200 lbs (998 kg)
48" x 42"
1219 x 1067 mm
Automotive
(~3% of US pallets)Adopted by the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG). Slightly wider than GMA to accommodate automotive parts containers and totes.
Weight
36-50 lbs (16-23 kg)
Dynamic Load
2,500 lbs (1,134 kg)
Static Load
5,500 lbs (2,495 kg)
Rack Load
2,000 lbs (907 kg)
40" x 48"
1016 x 1219 mm
Military (Reverse GMA)
(~2% of US pallets)Same dimensions as GMA but loaded from the 40" side (the stringer side). Standard for US military and Department of Defense logistics.
Weight
33-48 lbs (15-22 kg)
Dynamic Load
2,500 lbs (1,134 kg)
Static Load
5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
Rack Load
2,000 lbs (907 kg)
48" x 36"
1219 x 914 mm
Beverage
(~3% of US pallets)Narrower depth optimizes space for beverage cases and cans. Commonly used by major bottlers and beverage distributors.
Weight
30-42 lbs (14-19 kg)
Dynamic Load
2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Static Load
4,000 lbs (1,814 kg)
Rack Load
1,600 lbs (726 kg)
Global Standards
International Pallet Sizes
If you're shipping internationally, you may encounter these common global pallet standards.
1200 x 800 mm
EUR Pallet (Euro)
1200 x 1000 mm
EUR 2 Pallet
1140 x 1140 mm
Australian Standard
1067 x 1067 mm
Square Standard
1100 x 1100 mm
Asian Standard
Understanding Load Ratings
Dynamic Load
The maximum weight a pallet can carry while being moved by a forklift or pallet jack. This is the most commonly referenced capacity and applies to pallets being transported.
Static Load
The maximum weight a pallet can support when sitting stationary on a flat, solid surface. Typically 2x the dynamic load rating since forces are distributed evenly.
Rack Load
The maximum weight a pallet can hold when supported only at its edges in a racking system. Lower than dynamic load because the pallet must span the gap between rack beams.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common pallet size?
The 48 x 40 inch GMA pallet is the most common size in North America, used by grocery, retail, and general freight industries. It is compatible with standard racking and handling equipment.
How do I choose the right pallet size for my products?
Consider your product dimensions, weight, storage system compatibility, and shipping requirements. Our team can recommend the optimal pallet size based on your specific application and industry.
What is the weight capacity of a standard pallet?
A standard 48x40 GMA pallet has a dynamic load capacity of approximately 2,800 lbs and a static load capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. Capacity varies by construction type and wood species.
Do you carry international standard pallet sizes?
Yes, we carry and can build pallets in all major international sizes including EUR pallets (800x1200mm), Australian pallets (1165x1165mm), and other ISO standard dimensions.
Can you build custom-sized pallets not listed in the size guide?
Absolutely. We build custom pallets to any dimension. Contact us with your size requirements and we will provide a quote for custom-built pallets tailored to your exact specifications.