Pallet Sizes and Dimensions: Standard U.S. and International Pallets
The common pallet sizes (48×40 GMA, EUR, ISO), weight limits, height limits and how many pallets fit in a trailer or container.
Updated October 25, 2026 · 5 min read
Common pallet sizes
| Pallet | Size | Where used |
|---|---|---|
| GMA / standard U.S. | 48 × 40 in (1219 × 1016 mm) | U.S. grocery and most U.S. warehouses |
| Square | 42 × 42 in or 48 × 48 in | Paint, drums, telecom, some chemicals |
| EUR / EPAL 1 | 1200 × 800 mm (47.2 × 31.5 in) | Europe |
| ISO / “industrial” | 1200 × 1000 mm (47.2 × 39.4 in) | Europe and Asia |
| Asia standard | 1100 × 1100 mm (43.3 × 43.3 in) | Japan, Korea and other Asian markets |
Weight and height limits
Warehouses price and rack pallets by size, weight and height. Many set limits such as a maximum height (often around 60–72 inches including the pallet) and a maximum weight per pallet. Taller or heavier pallets may be charged as more than one position. Always ask the warehouse for its limits before you build your pallets.
How many pallets fit in a truck or container?
| Equipment | 48 × 40 pallets, single-stacked (typical) |
|---|---|
| 53 ft dry van trailer | about 26 (straight) to 30 (turned) |
| 40 ft container | about 20–21 |
| 20 ft container | about 9–10 |
Double-stacking doubles these if the goods and weight allow. For your own numbers, use the pallet & space calculator. Container details are on containers.broker.
Pallet types
- Stringer pallets — forklift entry from 2 sides (or 4 with notches); common and cheap.
- Block pallets — true 4-way entry, stronger; standard for EUR pallets.
- Plastic pallets — clean and long-lasting, used for food and pharma.
- Heat-treated (HT) pallets — required for wooden pallets in most international shipping (ISPM 15).
Find warehouse space near you
Browse warehouses, 3PL and fulfillment companies and cold storage by state and city, then contact them directly. Read our cost guide and use the pallet calculator first.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the most common pallet size in the U.S.?
The 48 × 40 inch pallet, often called the GMA pallet. Most U.S. warehouse racking is designed around it.
Can I use EUR pallets in a U.S. warehouse?
Usually yes, but they are smaller (1200 × 800 mm, about 47.2 × 31.5 in), so they may not sit safely on racking built for 48 × 40 pallets. Ask the warehouse first.
How much does an empty pallet weigh?
A standard wooden 48 × 40 pallet usually weighs roughly 30–50 lb; plastic pallets vary more.
Related guides
- How Much Does Warehouse Space Cost? 2026 Estimates per Pallet and per Square Foot
- How to Choose a 3PL Warehouse: 12 Questions to Ask Before You Sign
- Bonded Warehouses vs Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ): What Importers Need to Know
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules and rates change — confirm permits with your city or county and get written quotes before you buy.