Selecting the correct pallet size is a key part of protecting your products and optimizing transportation costs. The right size pallet for your shipment improves stability, maximizes space, and ensures compatibility with handling equipment throughout the supply chain.
In this blog, we’ll break down common pallet sizes and explain how choosing the right option can support safer, more efficient shipping.
What is a Pallet?
A pallet is a flat transport platform designed to support goods during storage, handling, and transportation. Most pallets are made of wood, though plastic and metal options are also available. Wood pallets remain the most widely used due to their strength, versatility, and cost-effectiveness.
Pallets provide a stable base so you can easily move products using forklifts, pallet jacks, and automated handling systems—making them a key part of modern logistics operations.
Common Standard Pallet Sizes
While pallets can be built to custom specifications, we also offer several standard sizes. Each serves a different purpose depending on load requirements and product dimensions.
48 x 40 Inch Pallet
The 48 x 40 pallet is the most common size in North America and the industry standard for freight shipments. It’s well-suited for heavy or high-volume loads and integrates easily with transportation and warehouse systems. This pallet size is commonly used for:
- Industrial goods
- Manufacturing materials
- Bulk shipments.
42 x 42 Inch Pallet
The 42 x 42 pallet is often used for lighter products or shipments where space efficiency is a priority. Its smaller footprint can help reduce shipping costs while still providing reliable support for boxed or packaged goods.
48 x 48 Inch Pallet
Designed for oversized or bulky loads, the 48 x 48 pallet offers increased surface area and stability. It is commonly used for:
- Large machinery
- Wide products
- Shipments that require additional support during transport
How to Choose the Right Pallet Size
Selecting the right pallet depends on several factors, including:
- The total weight of your load
- Product dimensions and shape
- Whether the items are fragile, bulky, or irregularly sized
- Handling requirements during loading and unloading
- Shipping destination and transportation method
Using a pallet that is too small can compromise load stability and increase the risk of damage. Oversized pallets, on the other hand, may waste space and drive up transportation costs. The right balance ensures safety, efficiency, and cost control.
Custom Pallet Solutions from Alberta Pallet
While standard pallet sizes work well for a number of applications, not every shipment fits a one-size-fits-all solution. At Alberta Pallet, we provide custom pallet design and manufacturing to meet your exact specifications. Whether you need specialized dimensions, increased load capacity, or pallets engineered for specific handling conditions, our team delivers solutions built around your products and supply chain needs.
Get the Right Pallet for Your Operation
Choosing the right pallet size is critical to protecting your goods and improving logistics efficiency. As a top pallet supplier of standard and custom wood pallet options, Alberta Pallet helps businesses move products safely, reliably, and cost-effectively.
Contact Alberta Pallet today to discuss your requirements or request a quote for a pallet solution designed to support your operation.