Choosing the right pallet type when exporting goods can save you time, money and hassle. At CM Pallet Services, we’ve helped businesses pick the perfect pallets for over 20 years. Let’s explore which options work best for different export needs.
Why Pallet Choice Matters for International Shipping
When exporting goods, the pallet you choose needs to meet specific requirements for your destination country. Using the wrong pallet type could cause:
- Delays at customs checkpoints
- Damage to your products during transit
- Extra fees for non-compliance
- Problems with your customs agent
Our family-run business helps customers avoid these issues by providing the right advice and products.
Standard Pallets for Different Markets
Wooden Pallets
Wooden pallets remain the most popular choice for exporting goods. We offer several options:
Standard Pallets Our standard sized pallets (1200mm x 1000mm) are ideal for UK and European exports. We offer both Grade A (like new) and Grade B (previously used but strong) options.
Euro Pallet The Euro pallet has specific pallet measurements (800 mm x 1200mm) and is accepted throughout Europe. We offer several types including medium weight and lightweight versions.
American Pallet For exporting goods to North America or the United States, American pallets (40 inches x 48 inches) are the standard. These block pallets can handle heavy loads and fit perfectly in US shipping containers.
Heavy Weight Strapper These extra-strong wooden pallets are designed for heavy loads like machinery or building materials.
Plastic Pallets
Plastic pallets offer several advantages when exporting goods:
- Easy to clean (important for food and medical shipments)
- Not subject to many import regulations
- Longer-lasting in difficult conditions
- Consistent pallet size and quality
Export Regulations: What You Need to Know
When using wooden pallets for exporting goods, you must follow ISPM 15 regulations. This International Organization for Standardization measure prevents pest transfer between countries.
Requirements for Wooden Pallets
All wooden pallets used in international shipping must be:
- Heat-treated to 56°C for at least 30 minutes
- Marked with the official ISPM 15 stamp
This stamp includes:
- Country code (e.g., GB for Great Britain)
- Registration number
- Treatment code (HT for heat treatment)
Your customs agent will check for this mark when processing export declarations.
Plastic Pallets: A Simpler Alternative
Plastic pallets don’t require ISPM 15 compliance, making them easier to use when exporting goods. They can help reduce transport costs by:
- Avoiding inspection delays
- Preventing rejection at borders
- Eliminating treatment expenses
As noted on Business Waste, proper treatment of wooden pallets is crucial for international shipping compliance, while plastic alternatives can offer a regulation-free option for many exporters.
Choosing the Right Pallet Type: A Quick Comparison
| Pallet Type | Best For | Typical Size | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Wooden | General exports | 1200mm x 1000mm | Cost-effective, widely accepted |
| Euro Pallet | European shipments | 800 mm x 1200mm | Standard throughout Europe |
| American Pallet | US/North America | 40 inches x 48 inches | Fits US shipping systems |
| Plastic Pallets | Food, pharmaceuticals | Various sized pallets | Easy to clean, no ISPM 15 requirements |
Environmentally Friendly Options
CM Pallet specialises in recycling wooden pallets that other companies won’t handle. By choosing our recycled pallets, you:
- Reduce waste
- Lower your environmental impact
- Often save money compared to new pallets
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which pallet type should I use when exporting goods to Europe?
For most European exports, a Euro pallet (800 mm x 1200mm) is ideal. These standard sized pallets fit European transport systems perfectly. All wooden pallets must be ISPM 15 treated.
2. What pallet measurements are needed for US exports?
When exporting goods to the United States or North America, use American standard pallets measuring 40 inches x 48 inches. These block pallets are designed to work with US handling equipment.
3. How do pallet types affect transport costs?
Using the wrong pallet size can increase transport costs by wasting space or requiring extra handling. Standard sized pallets designed for your destination country maximise container space and minimise handling issues.
4. Do plastic pallets cost more than wooden ones?
While plastic pallets have a higher initial cost, they can reduce overall expenses when exporting goods by:
- Lasting longer than wooden pallets
- Not requiring ISPM 15 treatment
- Being easier for your customs agent to clear
- Reducing product damage when carrying heavy loads
Ready to Choose the Right Pallet for Your Exports?
With 20+ years of experience, CM Pallet Services can help you select the perfect pallet type for exporting goods to any destination country. Whether you need standard pallets for European shipments, American pallets for the United States, or plastic pallets for specialised cargo, we have options to suit every need.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help make your international shipping more efficient!
