Standard Pallet Sizes and How to Estimate Cartons per Pallet
Packaging · 4 min read
Palletizing significantly reduces handling damage, but pallet standards are far from universal. Knowing the common sizes and a simple estimating formula helps you plan storage charges and shipment layout.
The Two Main Pallet Types
- Stringer pallets: three longer stringers support the sides and middle of the boards; forklifts can pick them up two ways (2-way).
- Block pallets: blocks support the boards at the edges and middles; accessible from all four sides (4-way) and sturdier for heavier shipments.
Common Pallet Sizes
- 40″ × 48″ (≈1016×1219 mm, often quoted as 1000×1200 mm): most common worldwide.
- 42″ × 42″ (≈1067×1067 mm): common in North America, Europe and Asia.
- 45.9″ × 45.9″ (≈1166×1166 mm): common in Australia.
- 43.3″ × 43.3″ (≈1100×1100 mm): common in Asia.
How Many Cartons Fit on a Pallet?
A rough formula: number of pallets ≈ shipment volume (CBM) ÷ 1.5.
- Example: a 15 CBM shipment ≈ 10 pallets.
- Useful for estimating storage charges or how many pallets you'll ship if palletizing at origin.
- The actual count is only certain once cartons are palletized — treat this as an estimate.
Shipping tip: confirm pallet dimensions with your supplier against destination warehouse and racking requirements; choose block (4-way) pallets for heavy cargo for easier handling.
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