What you need to know about pallets
Pallets are still the most common load carrier for goods transport with forklifts. Available in different sizes and material, they allow for storing your loads in an efficient way.
What is a pallet?
Carrier of goods
A pallet is a flat structure that is used for shipping and transport of goods, and also makes it possible to move unit loads more cost-effectively, safely and ergonomically.
The use of the pallet, as we know it today, was developed during the Second World War. Pallets are usually made of wood, plastic or metal and the choice of pallet usually depends on the load and the environment it is being used in.
A BT invention
The original Euro-pallet was developed by BT, SJ (Svenska Järnvägar), and Gyllsjö Träindustri to move goods on railways. The measurement 800 x 1200 mm, was standardised and the Euro-pallet is the most commonly used pallet in Europe today.
Is there a standard pallet size?
Varies from country to country
International standard sizes don’t really exist because pallet definitions, construction standards and terminologies vary enormously from country to country. However national standards and unofficial branch standard sizes are common so contact your local association or organisation for more information.
Not all industrial forklift truck types are compatible with all types of pallets – be sure to check pallet dimensions and load size (including overhang) before specifying your requirements on forks. The weight and content of unit loads affect the centre of gravity, and the residual capacity of the industrial forklift truck required for stacking.
Sizes of wooden pallets often vary from country to country, depending on usage. However, the most common pallet size used in Europe is 1200 x 800 mm.
What are the common pallets?
Open pallet
Open Pallet
Also known as a Euro pallet, 4-way entry pallet, block pallet
Consists of a block construction with bottom boards on 2 sides and the centre. 2-way open entry and 2-way entry across bottom boards which give possibility to a 4-way entry.
Makes handling easy with virtually all types of forklift trucks on the open entry sides and shaped corners and bottom boards to make it easier to enter the pallet.
This type of pallet is a very common pallet type in Europe (except in the UK)
Bottom boarded pallet
Bottom Boarded Pallet
Also known as a Chep pallet, 4-way entry pallet, block pallet, bottom board pallet or GKN pallet.
Consists of a block construction with bottom boards on all 4 sides and centre. 4-way entry is possible, all across the bottom boards.
Makes handling easy with virtually all types of forklift trucks although it is not possible to use a fork-over-support arm stacker. Shaped bottom boards make it easier for the truck forks to enter the pallet.
This type of pallet is a very common pallet type in the UK.
Stringer pallet
Stringer Pallet
Also known as a 4-way entry pallet, block & bearer pallet, bottom board pallet, grocery pallet, GMA pallet (USA) or CPC pallet (CDA)
This is a block and side bearer (with fork cut-outs) construction. 2-way open entry and 2-way entry across bottom boards which give possibility to a 4-way entry. Hand- and powered pallet trucks and support arms stackers with elevating support arms can be used for horizontal transport.
Hand pallet trucks (low fork height), reach trucks, straddle or counterbalanced trucks need to pick this pallet up from the bearer side. Shaped bottom boards make it easier for the truck forks to enter the pallet.
This type of pallet is a very common pallet type in North America, Africa and Asia.
Bearer pallet
Bearer Pallet
Also known as a 2-way entry pallet, block & bearer pallet or bottom board pallet
This is a block construction with side and centre bearers and with the possibility of 2-way entry only. Makes handling easy with virtually all types of forklift trucks although it is not possible to use a fork-over-support arm stacker. Shaped bottom boards make it easier for the truck forks to enter the pallet.
This is a very common pallet type in Africa and Asia.
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