Pallet sizes still vary considerably between different countries although much progress has been made in terms of standardization and reusability. This was crucial as increased global trade necessitated the need for standard pallet dimensions which are now reflected in the ISO Pallet list below.
Of the many different pallet sizes available, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has approved six pallet dimension which are now widely used as standard pallet size around the globe.
This information is a good starting point when considering exporting your goods to a different country and don’t want to incur the extra expenses and time delays of transferring your goods to local pallets upon arrival. It also enables you to calculate just how many pallets you can fit into a container for shipping.
In Europe many different pallets have emerged over the years as each country developed its own material handling needs.
In recent times, standardization has occurred to a certain extent and we now have a widely used standard European pallet known as the EUR Pallet, Europallet or EPAL Pallet. Its dimensions are 1200mm×800mm (31.50”×47.24”) and is one of the six approved ISO Pallet sizes.
The two most popular pallet sizes used in Asia are the square 1100mm x 1100mm (43.30″ × 43.30″) pallet and the 1200mm x 1000mm (39.37″ × 47.24″) pallet. Both are included in the approved ISO Pallet list. The 1200mm x 1000mm (39.37″ × 47.24″) pallet is better suited for export from Asia to Europe and the USA as these dimensions integrate nicely into European and US systems.
The most common pallet size in Australia is 1165mm × 1165mm (45.87″ × 45.87″). It is also on the list of approved ISO Pallets.
These dimensions enable two pallets to fit very snugly side by side into the Australian railway RACE container, which is slightly wider than standard ISO containers. Using the Australian pallet in 20′ or 40′ foot ISO containers will mean a loss of some floor space.