Palletized Delivery: Should You Ship Using Standard Pallets or Euro Pallets?

Maximising space and minimising damage when palletizing goods is the first rule of shipping. So it's no surprise that choosing the right pallet size for your products is a step that can significantly benefit efficiency and overall cost-effectiveness. In this article, we will dive into the process of palletizing goods and guide you on how to choose the perfect pallet.

Whether you are dealing with small or bulky items, finding the ideal pallet size is crucial. Utilising the right-sized pallets not only allows for better organisation and stackability but also ensures the safety of your products during transportation and storage.

We will also explain the importance of understanding the dimensions and weight of your goods so you can determine the most suitable pallet size to accommodate your items effectively.

So, let's explore the art of palletizing and uncover the key strategies to maximising pallet compatibility.

Types of goods suitable for different pallet sizes

To find the right pallet size for your goods, it's important to have a thorough understanding of your products. As mentioned, analyse their dimensions, weight, and fragility. Are they small items that can be easily stacked or larger, bulkier items that require more space? Consider the shape and stability of your goods as well, as some items may require additional support or special handling.

By categorising your goods based on their characteristics, you can determine the most suitable pallet size for each category. This will allow you to maximise space and minimise the risk of damage during storage and transportation.

Different types of goods require different pallet sizes to ensure optimal palletization. Let's explore some examples:

Small items

If you are dealing with small items such as electronic components or cosmetics, a smaller pallet size, such as the Euro pallet, may be more suitable. This allows for better organisation and stackability of these smaller items.

Bulky items

For larger and bulkier items, such as furniture or machinery, a larger pallet size, such as the standard pallet, would be more appropriate. This provides enough surface area to accommodate these items without compromising stability.

Irregularly shaped items

Some goods may have irregular shapes or dimensions, making it challenging to find the perfect pallet size. In such cases, a standard pallet size is recommended to ensure a higher level of safety and stability for the items on the pallet.

As an industry professional owning a pallet business, the choice between standard-sized pallets (120cm by 100cm) and Euro pallets (120cm by 80cm) depends on various factors, and each type has its advantages and considerations.

Which is better, standard pallets or Euro pallets?

It's common to wonder if one pallet size is superior to the other. The truth is that neither outperforms the other; it's all about what suits your needs best.

It's important to note that both standard-sized pallets and Euro pallets are widely used in logistics and supply chain management. The suitability of one over the other just depends on the goods you intend to ship.

Both pallet types are recognised internationally and are both incredibly reliable and cost-effective choices for shipping goods.

Useful tools and equipment for palletizing

To make the palletizing process more efficient, consider investing in the following tools and equipment:

Pallet jacks

Pallet jacks are manual or electric devices used to lift and move pallets. They can help streamline the process of loading and unloading goods onto pallets.

Shrink wrap

Shrink wrap is used to secure goods on pallets using a type of film that secures goods by stretching around them. This material helps to ensure that goods are properly wrapped and secured, minimising the risk of damage during transportation.

Click here to watch how to shrink wrap a pallet.

Pallet racking systems

Pallet racking systems are storage systems designed specifically for palletized goods. They provide efficient use of vertical space and easy access to stored goods.