Canada PalletRecycling

Pallet Size Guide

Everything you need to know about pallet dimensions. Find the right size for your application.

Need a Specific Size?

We can provide any standard size or build custom pallets to your specifications.

Standard Pallet Sizes

These are the most commonly used pallet sizes in North America and internationally.

Most Popular

GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association)

Imperial48" x 40"
Metric1219 x 1016 mm

Most common in North America. Standard for retail and grocery.

RetailGroceryGeneral Warehousing

ISO Standard

Imperial42" x 42"
Metric1067 x 1067 mm

Square design for paint and telecommunications.

PaintTelecommunicationsSquare Containers

Automotive

Imperial48" x 45"
Metric1219 x 1143 mm

Common in automotive industry.

AutomotiveManufacturing

Drum

Imperial48" x 48"
Metric1219 x 1219 mm

Square design for drums and bulk containers.

ChemicalOil & GasBulk Products

Chemical/Beverage

Imperial48" x 36"
Metric1219 x 914 mm

Common in chemical and beverage industries.

ChemicalBeverageFood Processing
Most Popular

Euro Pallet

Imperial47.24" x 31.50"
Metric1200 x 800 mm

European standard. Required for EU trade.

Import/ExportEuropean TradeInternational

Half Pallet

Imperial48" x 20"
Metric1219 x 508 mm

Compact size for retail displays.

Retail DisplaysLimited SpaceSmall Loads

Quarter Pallet

Imperial24" x 20"
Metric610 x 508 mm

Very compact for point-of-sale displays.

Point of SaleRetail DisplaysSampling

Visual Size Comparison

48x40
48x48
Euro
Half

Relative size comparison (not to scale)

Standard Specifications

Deck Board Width

3.5" - 5.5"

Wider boards provide more support

Deck Board Thickness

5/8" - 3/4"

Thicker for heavier loads

Stringer Dimensions

1.5" x 3.5"

Standard 2x4 lumber

Block Dimensions

3.5" x 3.5" x 3.5"

Standard block size

Overall Height

5" - 6"

Allows fork entry

Fork Entry Opening

3" - 3.5"

Must accommodate standard forks

Load Capacity Guide

Load capacity depends on pallet type, condition, and how load is distributed.

Pallet TypeStatic LoadDynamic LoadRacking Load
Stringer (Grade A)2,500 lbs2,200 lbs1,800 lbs
Block Pallet3,000 lbs2,500 lbs2,200 lbs
Heavy Duty4,000 lbs3,500 lbs3,000 lbs
Static Load:

Weight supported while stationary on floor

Dynamic Load:

Weight supported while being moved by forklift

Racking Load:

Weight supported when stored on rack beams

Need Custom Dimensions?

We can build pallets to any size. Contact us with your requirements.