What are the Different Types of Pallets?
Pallets are a fundamental part of modern logistics and warehousing, but not all pallets are designed for the same purpose. Understanding the differences available can help businesses improve efficiency, safety and cost-effectiveness. The type of pallet that is right for your application will depend on factors such as the equipment being used to move it, the weight of the pallet and storage requirements. Pallet technology over the years has evolved and businesses now have far more options than they did previously.
Wooden Pallets
Wooden pallets are the most widely recognised and commonly used pallet. You’ll find these at builders’ merchants, within retail settings and in manufacturing. Wooden pallets are very cheap to make and easy to repair. Most materials handling equipment is compatible with wooden pallets as long as the pallet size is standard.
Common types of wooden pallets:
- Stringer Pallets
- Block Pallets
- Open deck pallets
- Closed deck pallets
- Reversible pallets
- Non-reversible pallets
- Winged pallets
- Flush pallets
- Double-face pallets
- Heavy-Duty Industrial Pallets
- Heat-Treated Export Pallets (ISPM 15)
Wooden pallets are the preferred choice for general freight transportation due to their affordability and widespread acceptance across multiple supply chains.
Plastic Pallets
Plastic pallets are becoming increasingly popular due to their improved durability and resistance to contamination when compared with wooden pallets. They are often made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene. These are a top choice in the pharmaceutical industry and the food and beverage industry with strict cleanliness standards due to them being more hygienic as they can easily be cleaned or sanitised.
Metal Pallets
Metal pallets are typically used in more heavy-duty environments where exceptional strength and durability is required. Typically metal pallets are manufactured from steel or aluminum, allowing them to support significantly heavier loads when compared to wooden pallets. They also often have a much longer lifespan when compared with plastic and wooden pallets.
Although metal pallets are more expensive, their longevity and ability to bear greater loads make them an excellent choice for industries such as heavy engineering, aerospace and automotive manufacturing.
UK vs European Pallets
The key difference between UK and Euro pallets is their dimensions and standardisation requirements.
European pallets commonly known as Euro or EPAL pallets are produced to a strict specification with regulated dimensions, load capacities, markings and quality control. This consistency means these pallets can participate in the pallet exchange network across Europe. UK pallets, however, while largely manufactured to the same dimensions, have largely different specifications depending on the industry they are produced for and their intended use. This means UK pallets must be more stringently checked before use, especially if the business is operating internationally.
Global Standard Pallet Sizes
| Pallet Type | Dimensions (L x W) | Height (Typical) | Common Material | Main Use |
| UK Standard | 1200 x 1000mm | 150mm | Wood/Plastic | UK distribution and warehousing |
| Euro (EU1/EPAL) | 1200 x 800mm | 144mm | Wood/Plastic | European logistics |
| EUR2 | 1200 x 1000mm | 144mm | Wood/Plastic | UK, Scandinavia, Europe |
| Half Pallet | 800 x 600mm | 140-144mm | Wood/Plastic | Retail displays |
| Quarter Pallet | 600 x 400mm | 140mm | Plastic/Cardboard | Retail and POS displays |
| North America (GMA) | 1219 x 1016mm (48″x40”) | 150mm | Wood/Plastic | USA & Canada |
| Australian Standard | 1165 x 1165mm | 150mm | Wood/Plastic | Australia & New Zealand |
| Asian Standard | 1100x1100mm | 150mm | Wood/Plastic | Asia-Pacific logistics |
Pallet Material Comparison
| Material | Typical Weight | Advantages | Disadvantages | Typical Uses |
| Wooden Pallets | 20-35kg | Lowest cost, easy repair, widely accepted | Can splinter, absorbs moisture | General freight |
| Plastic Pallets | 10-25 kg | Hygienic, washable, durable | Higher purchase cost | Food, pharmaceuticals, export |
| Metal Pallets (Steel/Aluminium) | 30-80+ kg | Extremely strong, fire-resistant, long lifespan | Expensive, heavier | Automotive, aerospace, heavy industry |
Choosing the Right Pallet for Your Business
Choosing the right pallet depends on your industry and handling equipment. Whether you require cost-effective wooden pallets, hygienic plastic pallets or heavy-duty metal pallets, understanding the benefits of each option will help optimise your materials handling operations.
FAQs
How many types of pallets are there?
Most pallets fall into three primary material categories: wooden, plastic and metal. There are, however, dozens of variations of pallets.
What type of pallets are safe to use?
The safest pallet to use depends on the application. Plastic pallets may be the preferred choice in the food & beverage industry whilst metal pallets would be a better option in heavy-duty industrial applications.
What type of wood are pallets made from?
Most wooden pallets are manufactured from softwoods such as pine or spruce. Hard wood such as oak is sometime used to increase the durability and load capacity of wooden pallets.
What are the different types of pallets available?
The most common pallet types include stringer pallets, block pallets, reversible pallets, winged pallets, open-deck pallets, closed-deck pallets, plastic pallets, and metal pallets. The best option will depend on your handling equipment, load requirements, and operating environment.