What pallet do I need?

PalletChecker / What pallet do I need?

Start with the goods you are moving, the size and weight of the load, and where the pallet is going. The right pallet must fit your goods, work with your handling equipment and meet the receiving site's requirements.

How do I know what type of pallet I need?

1. Ask the receiving site. A warehouse, retailer or customer may specify a footprint, design or pallet scheme. Find this out before choosing by price.
2. Measure the load. Record its length and width in millimetres, including packaging. Choose a footprint that supports the goods without unwanted overhang.
3. Weigh it and describe the weight distribution. A box spread across the deck is different from machinery resting on a few feet. The total weight alone does not establish suitability.
4. Describe the handling. Will it be moved with forks, stored on a flat floor or supported on rack beams? Check the rating for that condition.
5. Check the journey and environment. Export requirements, cleaning, moisture, repeated reuse and retail display can change the design you need.

What pallet should I use for ordinary boxes?

A used UK-standard 1200 × 1000 mm or Euro-size 1200 × 800 mm wooden pallet is a useful starting point for ordinary boxed distribution where the receiving site accepts used pallets. Check which footprint the customer accepts, then compare the exact construction and condition. A used pallet can suit routine movements; a new pallet may be chosen when consistency and presentation matter.

Compare used wooden pallets · Used UK-standard pallets · Used Euro-size pallets

What pallet do I need for a heavy load?

Look for a published load rating for the correct support condition. A static rating is for a load supported on the floor; it is not permission to put that same load on rack beams. Concentrated machinery loads can require a designed base, fixing points and an agreed lifting method.

What pallet do I need for export?

Confirm the destination and customer requirements. Where solid timber packaging needs treatment and marking, check the actual pallet and its marks. Presswood, paper or plastic may be alternatives, but they still need to meet the shipment and receiving requirements.

What if I do not know the pallet's name?

You do not need it. Use the guided checker with your application, footprint and load weight. It will help you shortlist types and distinguish published ratings from information that needs confirmation.

Check pallet requirements