Why Pallet Size Matters
Choosing the wrong pallet size doesn't just waste space — it wastes money. An improperly sized pallet can reduce container utilization by 15–20%, increase product damage, and create safety hazards in warehouses and during transport.
The GMA Standard: 48×40 Inches
The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) pallet, measuring 48 inches by 40 inches, is the workhorse of American logistics. It accounts for approximately 30% of all new pallets produced in the US. This size is specifically designed to:
- Fit standard American truck trailers (two pallets wide)
- Maximize rack storage efficiency
- Support standard stretch-wrapping equipment
- Meet retail receiving requirements at major chains
Load capacity: A well-built 48×40 pallet supports 2,500 lbs in a dynamic (moving) load and up to 2,800 lbs in static (racked) storage.
Common North American Sizes
International Standards
If you ship internationally, you'll encounter the ISO system:
- EUR/EPAL (800 × 1200 mm): The European standard, used across the EU
- Asia Standard (1100 × 1100 mm): Common in Japan, Korea, and Australia
- Australian Standard (1165 × 1165 mm): Optimized for Australian rail and road transport
Choosing the Right Size
Consider these factors:
- What are you shipping? Match pallet dimensions to your product footprint
- Where is it going? International shipments may require specific sizes
- How is it being stored? Rack systems have dimensional requirements
- What does your customer require? Major retailers often mandate GMA pallets
Custom Sizes
When standard won't do, custom pallets fill the gap. Universal Pallet Supply builds custom pallets to your exact specifications. Common custom requests include oversized pallets for machinery, narrow pallets for tight spaces, and reinforced pallets for heavy industrial loads.