LOGISTICS 101
When preparing a shipment, much of the focus goes on correctly preparing the goods themselves, but the foundation of the entire consignment—the pallet—is just as important. Choosing the right base for your items is the first step to a successful delivery.
For customers shipping to, from, or within the UK and Europe, the choice generally comes down to two options: the Standard pallet or the Euro pallet. But does it really make a difference which one you use? The answer is yes, and understanding why will help you ship more efficiently and cost-effectively.
Please note: While we handle Standard and Euro pallets, there is one type we cannot accept through our network, which is the American pallet. If you are new to pallet shipping, please contact our team to ensure your pallet base is suitable for our services.
What are the main differences between a Standard and a Euro pallet?
The single biggest difference is size:
- A Standard Pallet (or UK Standard Pallet) measures 120cm x 100cm. It is the most common size used for domestic shipments within the UK.
- A Euro Pallet measures 120cm x 80cm. As the dimensions suggest, it has a smaller footprint than its UK counterpart.
This size difference is the key factor that influences cost and packing efficiency.
Why would I choose one over the other?
The decision often comes down to packing efficiency. Ideally, you should use a pallet that fits your goods as securely as possible. Here’s some more guidance on how to pick the best size:
- If your products and their packaging fit more neatly onto a Euro pallet, it is likely the more beneficial choice. The smaller footprint means it takes up less space in a vehicle, which can be reflected in the shipping price.
How full your pallet is also determines which service you require. We offer quarter, half, and full pallet options, with specific weight and height limits for each:
- Quarter Pallet: Up to 300kg or 80cm high.
- Half Pallet: Up to 600kg or 110cm high.
- Full Pallet: Up to 1200kg or 220cm high.
Pallets that exceed these standard dimensions are no problem at Pallet2Ship, but they will be classified as oversized and incur an additional fee due to the extra space they require.
How do I measure my pallet correctly?
Providing accurate dimensions is one of the most critical parts of the booking process, as it ensures the carrier allocates the correct space. Follow these rules:
- Always Include the Pallet: Your measurements for length, width, height, and weight must include the pallet base itself.
- Measure from the Ground Up: The height measurement should start from the floor and go to the highest point of your goods.
- Declare the Pallet Size: If your goods are smaller than the pallet base, you must still declare the full dimensions of the pallet (e.g., 120cm x 100cm for a Standard).
- For Oversized Items: If your goods overhang the pallet, you must provide the dimensions based on the widest points of the goods, not the pallet base.
Are there special requirements for international shipping?
Yes. Certain countries have strict biosecurity rules for wood packaging. If you are sending goods to destinations such as the USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, the wooden pallet base must be fumigated or heat-treated in accordance with ISPM 15 regulations. Both Standard and Euro pallets are available in heat-treated versions.
For additional information on shipping to specific countries, hover over the ‘Popular Destinations’ tab to find your consignment destination, or scroll down to the footer on our website.
Your Partner for Pallet Shipping
While they differ in size, both Standard and Euro pallets are designed for durability and compatibility with all standard handling equipment, such as forklifts and pallet jacks. They are strong, often reusable, and provide a reliable foundation for your shipment.
Choosing the right one simply ensures you are shipping in the most efficient way possible.
If you have an item to ship and are unsure which pallet is the right choice, contact our expert team today. We're here to help you ship anything, anywhere.