Standard Pallet Size: Dimensions & Weight

Pallets are important for transporting products from point A to point B. After gathering all the products and putting them on a pallet, it is critical to ensure the pallet is secure and protected for product safety. By ensuring the products fit onto the pallet, risks from potential damage or products falling off during transportation are limited. With products in different sizes, it is important to identify which pallet sizes are needed for a comfortable yet secure fit.

It is imperative for future orders and product transportation to know what the standard pallet sizes are.

The typical pallet dimensions of an industry standard pallet are 48” L x 40” W x 6” H.

Wood pallets in the standard or regular pallet size (48” x 40”)  commonly weigh between 32 and 44 pounds. Plastic pallets weights can vary between 13 and 32 pounds.

Typically, pallets are made from wood, plastic, metal, or cardboard.

Standard wood pallets (48" x 40") have a load capacity of 2,500 pounds, while standard plastic pallets have a load capacity ranging from 3,500 to 17,600 pounds.

Pallets are primarily used for the handling, storage, and transport of goods in industrial settings. They serve as a base for loads and allow for easy movement with forklifts and pallet jacks.

The typical dimensions of an industry standard pallet are 48 inches length and 40 inches width, with a standard pallet height of 6 inches. This standard pallet length and height is a popular choice across various industries due to its versatility and ability to hold more products than most pallets. These pallets are also known as GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) or CBA (Consumer Brand Association) pallets, as they are commonly used in grocery stores.

The exact weight of a pallet can change slightly depending on the manufacturer. The Cary Company offers wood pallets in the standard size at weights between 32 and 44 pounds. Alternatively, for standard plastic pallets, weights can vary between 13 and 32 pounds.

Pallets can support different quantities of weight based on their material and dimensions. The amount of weight a pallet can support is called its load capacity.  When looking at our standard pallets (48" x 40"), wood pallets have a load capacity of 2,500 pounds and plastic pallets have a load capacity ranging from 3,500 to 17,600 pounds.

The Cary Company offers classic wood pallets and plastic pallets. Our selection of plastic pallets includes need-based designs,  from industrial and economy to heavy-duty and rackable. 

Sizes can vary based on how many items companies want to move, with pallet lengths ranging from 24 inches to 48 inches.

One well-known option is wood pallets. They are a popular choice for their durability and toughness in various weather and transportation conditions. Wooden pallets are a great economical alternative to plastic or metal pallets, as they are generally cheaper to produce and purchase.

Wood pallets are available in three conditions: new, recycled and heat treated. Recycled wood is known for its sustainability and affordability. Wood pallets that are heat treated have been sterilized to prevent pests and insects from damaging the wood.

A great alternative to wood pallets is plastic pallets. There are distinct plastic pallet options available for in-demand products and industry needs.

Plastic pallets are bacteria resistant, durable, cost-effective and easier to handle in transportation due to their lighter weight.

Industrial plastic pallets are resistant to acids, fats, solvents and odors. They are a great choice for medium duty industrial loads and require less floor space. Industrial pallets work well with forklift and pallet jacks, designed with easy access on all four sides.

Economy plastic pallets are cost-efficient for standard air cargo, export and one-way shipping needs. They are a popular choice as a pallet due to their insect, bacteria and fungi resistant material.

For companies that need a stronger pallet, heavy-duty plastic pallets work to provide block stacking for products. This allows pallets to be safely and securely stacked on top of one another before being transported. Our heavy-duty plastic pallet can hold up to 17,600 lbs.

Rackable plastic pallets work to provide stacking support. They have locking rings that can be used to stack empty pallets. Rackable plastic pallets are easy to handle and prevent liquids, dust or other debris from forming.

There are accessories available that workers can use to secure products onto pallets.

Stretch wrap is a cost-effective method to use on standard or unique pallet sizes. It can be secured onto pallets by hand or by machine, depending on pallet size and facility resources. There are two main types: cast stretch and blown stretch.

For a reusable wrapping option that is easier to install, mesh pallet wraps put less stress on employees in comparison to manual wrapping.

Once the products are secured onto the pallet, a pallet jack makes the transportation process easier and keeps everyone safe loading pallets onto trucks.

Whether you are looking for a wood or plastic pallet, The Cary Company has the durable and reliable pallet options you need to secure products and get them to your customers. Our industry experts offer key insights and resources for how to wrap a pallet, reduce product shipping costs, and beyond!

Need more information on what pallet you would need? We have product specialists available to answer any questions about standard pallet specifications and help you find the perfect pallet. Contact us today! Give us a call at 630-629-6600 or email us at sales@thecarycompany.com!