Ever walked past a stack of wooden pallets and wondered why they’re all different shapes and sizes? You’re not alone! Let’s dive into the world of wooden pallets together and solve the mystery of pallet size once and for all.
The Short Answer: There’s Not Just One!
Right, let’s get straight to it. The term “standard pallet” in the UK can actually refer to several different sizes. Bit confusing, isn’t it? The most common UK standard size is 1200mm × 1000mm (that’s about 1.2m × 1m if you prefer).
But here’s the thing – there are actually several “standard” sizes used across the supply chain throughout the country. Think of it like trainers – there’s no one-size-fits-all, and different jobs need different pallet types!
The Main UK Pallet Sizes
Let’s break down the most common pallet sizes you’ll spot around Britain. Our delivery services across the UK use a wide range of these sizes:
“Hang on a minute, why are there so many?” I hear you ask. Great question!
| Pallet Type | Dimensions (mm) | Dimensions (inches) | Where You’ll See Them |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK Standard | 1200 × 1000 | 47.2 × 39.4 | General UK logistics, warehouses |
| Euro Pallet | 1200 × 800 | 47.2 × 31.5 | European transport, supermarkets |
| Industrial | 1200 × 1200 | 47.2 × 47.2 | Heavy machinery, construction |
| Half Pallet | 800 × 600 | 31.5 × 23.6 | Retail displays, smaller loads |
| Quarter Pallet | 600 × 400 | 23.6 × 15.7 | In-store promotions, light goods |
Why So Many Sizes?
Different industries have different needs – it’s as simple as that. Just like you wouldn’t wear football boots to a wedding (well, most wouldn’t!), different jobs need different pallets.
The UK standard pallet (1200 × 1000mm) is brilliant for maximising space in UK trucks and warehouses. But if you’re shipping goods to Europe, you’ll want a Euro pallet because that’s what fits their systems best.
The Euro Pallet: Europe’s Favourite
The Euro pallet (or EUR pallet) deserves special mention. At 1200 × 800mm, it’s a bit narrower than the UK standard. This euro pallet size has become the backbone of European logistics. If you’ve ever travelled in Europe, you’ve probably seen thousands of these without even realising!
Euro pallets come in different weight categories too:
- Lightweight Euro pallets for smaller loads
- Medium-weight Euro pallets for everyday use
- Heavy-weight strapper pallets for the big stuff
And if you need Euro pallets without the official EPAL stamp, we offer unstamped Euro pallets too!
What Makes a Standard Pallet “Standard”?
It’s not just about size – quality matters too! When looking for high quality wooden pallets, standard pallets are graded based on their condition:
- Grade A standard pallets are the cream of the crop – clean, strong, and ready for any job
- Grade B standard pallets are still solid but might have a bit more character (think of them as having experience rather than wear and tear!)
You can also find graded Euro pallets if you need European standard sizes with different quality levels.
Beyond Wood: Other Pallet Options
While this blog focuses on wooden pallets, it’s worth mentioning that plastic pallets are becoming more popular. They’re waterproof, don’t splinter, and can be easier to clean – though they’re typically more expensive upfront. For international shipping, many wooden pallets need to be heat treated to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Standard Pallet Construction: The Bits and Bobs
Now let’s look at how these wooden wonders are actually built:
Top Deck
The top deck is what you see first – the flat surface where goods sit. A standard UK pallet typically has 5-7 boards making up this deck. If you only need the top part, we offer pallet tops separately!
Blocks or Stringers
These are the bits that create the gap for forklift tines. UK standard pallets usually have 9 blocks, arranged in a 3×3 pattern.
Bottom Deck
The bottom deck has fewer boards than the top – usually 3-5 on a standard pallet.
Nails and Fasteners
The average standard pallet contains about 70-100 nails! That’s a lot of metal holding your goods safely above ground.
How Much Weight Can a Standard Pallet Hold?
This is where things get impressive! A typical UK standard wooden pallet can support static loads (goods just sitting there) of:
- Grade A: 1,500-2,000 kg
- Grade B: 1,000-1,500 kg
For dynamic loads (when being moved by forklift), reduce these figures by about 30%.
That means a single wooden pallet can hold the weight of a small car! Not too shabby for something most people don’t give a second glance.
Special Purpose Pallets
While we’ve covered the standard sizes, our wide range of pallet types also includes special purpose pallets for specific industries:
Printer pallets have been designed specifically for the printing industry, with smoother surfaces to protect paper products.
Drum pallets have circular cutouts to secure barrels during transport.
How Long Do Standard Wooden Pallets Last?
With proper care, a standard wooden pallet can last 3-5 years with regular use. Many are repaired along the way to extend their lifespan even further. This durability is part of what makes wooden pallets so valuable in the supply chain.
This reusability is one reason why wooden pallets are considered relatively eco-friendly despite being made from timber. According to the Timber Packaging and Pallet Confederation, over 90% of wooden pallets in the UK are repaired, reused, or recycled!
Choosing the Right Pallet Size for Your Needs
Not sure which pallet size is right for you? Here are some quick tips:
- Consider what you’re transporting (weight, dimensions)
- Think about where it’s going (UK only or international)
- Check what handling equipment you’ll be using (some forklifts have limited tine width)
- Consider storage space constraints
Still not sure? Contact us for expert advice on choosing the perfect pallet!
Did You Know? Fun Pallet Facts
- The first wooden pallets appeared around the 1920s
- There are estimated to be over 250 million pallets in circulation in the UK alone
- Laid end to end, the UK’s pallets would circle the Earth about three times!
- Standard pallets were crucial for supplying troops during World War II
- The biggest wooden pallet ever made was 3.6m × 2.9m – more than twice the size of a UK standard!
The Environmental Angle
Worried about trees? Good news! According to the Forest Stewardship Council, properly managed wooden pallet production can actually be sustainable. Many UK pallet manufacturers use timber from responsibly managed forests where new trees are planted to replace those harvested.
Plus, wooden pallets can be repaired multiple times, then broken down for recycling into mulch, animal bedding, or biomass fuel when they’re beyond repair. Not a splinter wasted!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common pallet size in the UK?
The most common pallet size in the UK is 1200mm × 1000mm, known as the UK standard pallet. However, Euro pallets (1200mm × 800mm) are also very common, especially for goods moving between the UK and Europe. Both sizes are essential components in modern logistics and the supply chain.
How much does a standard wooden pallet weigh?
A typical UK standard wooden pallet weighs between 25-30kg when empty. Euro pallets are slightly lighter, typically weighing 20-25kg.
Can I use UK standard pallets when shipping to Europe?
While you can use UK standard pallets (1200 × 1000mm) when shipping to Europe, be aware that many European warehouses and logistics systems are optimised for Euro pallets (1200 × 800mm). For smoothest operations, Euro pallets are recommended for European shipping.
How can I tell if my pallet is a standard size?
The easiest way is to measure it! If it’s approximately 1200mm × 1000mm, it’s likely a UK standard pallet. If it’s about 1200mm × 800mm, it’s probably a Euro pallet. Most pallets will also have markings stamped on the blocks that indicate their type and origin.
Are wooden pallets waterproof?
Standard wooden pallets are not waterproof. They can absorb moisture, which may lead to mould or weakening over time if consistently exposed to wet conditions. For waterproof solutions, consider plastic pallets or treating wooden pallets with water-resistant sealants. Some high quality wooden pallets are also heat treated, which can provide slight additional resistance to moisture.
Where can I buy standard wooden pallets?
Right here at CM Pallets, of course! Check out our range of Grade A standard pallets, Euro pallets, and more. Not sure what you need? Get in touch and we’ll help you find the perfect pallet for your needs.
Conclusion: Standard Doesn’t Mean One-Size-Fits-All
So there we have it! While the UK standard pallet is 1200mm × 1000mm, the world of wooden pallets is far more diverse than most people realise. From Euro pallets to industrial sizes, from Grade A to Grade B, there’s a perfect pallet for every job.
At CM Pallets, we stock a wide range of pallet types and sizes to meet all your logistics needs. Whether you’re moving goods around the UK through our delivery services or shipping internationally with heat treated options, we’ve got you covered.
Need more information or ready to order? Contact us today – we’re always happy to help you find the right pallet size for your specific requirements!
