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How much does a euro pallet weigh? A new standard EPAL or UIC euro pallet weighs about 25 kg; the actual euro pallet weight varies by a few kilograms depending on the moisture content and type of timber. It measures 1200×800×144 mm and can carry roughly 1000–1500 kg of evenly distributed load when moved by forklift or pallet truck. Below we’ve collected all the key specifications of the standard EPAL and UIC euro pallet 1200×800 – useful when you’re planning a load, racking or a truck, or simply want to check whether your pallets are genuine euro pallets. If you need pallets rather than just data, call +359 877 166 555 for today’s price.
Euro pallet dimensions
- Length: 1200 mm
- Width: 800 mm
- Height: 144 mm
The 1200×800 mm size is what makes euro pallets so practical: they fit neatly across the width of a standard trailer, and warehouse racking is designed around them. That’s why you’ll often hear “120 by 80” used as another name for a euro pallet. The euro-size skid 120×80 has the same outer dimensions, but it’s a lighter construction and isn’t part of the exchange system.
Euro pallet weight
A new euro pallet weighs about 25 kg. The actual weight varies by a few kilograms depending on the moisture content of the timber and the type of wood. A dry pallet weighs less, while a pallet that has stood in the rain can be noticeably heavier. Used pallets are usually slightly lighter than new ones because the wood has dried out – unless they’ve been stored outdoors.
Why does the weight matter? In transport, the gross weight of a shipment includes the pallets. On a full truckload of empty pallets, their weight is also significant when planning the trip.
Construction
A standard euro pallet consists of:
- top deck boards – the surface the load sits on;
- stringer boards – connecting the top deck to the blocks;
- 9 blocks – three rows of three, which give the pallet its height and let the forks in;
- bottom deck boards – the base that rests on the ground;
- 78 nails of a special type, arranged in a set pattern.
The design lets forklift or pallet truck forks enter from all four sides (from the long sides, pallet trucks are restricted by the bottom boards). The exact number and placement of the nails is part of the standard and is one of the signs used to check whether a pallet has been made or repaired correctly.
Load capacity
Load capacity depends on how the pallet is loaded and used. As a rough guide:
- when moving (by forklift or pallet truck) – about 1000–1500 kg of evenly distributed load;
- in static storage on a level surface – considerably more, up to several tonnes, when the load is evenly distributed and the pallet is at the bottom of the stack;
- on racking, where the pallet rests on just two beams – less than on the floor.
These figures are indicative and apply to a sound pallet with an even load. With a concentrated load (for example a machine resting on a single point), or with a damaged or wet pallet, the load capacity drops. For heavy and non-standard loads it’s better to order a custom skid with a suitable design.
Markings: how to recognise a euro pallet
EPAL
An EPAL euro pallet carries the EPAL logo in an oval on the corner blocks. The centre block usually carries additional information, including the phytosanitary treatment mark. Repaired EPAL pallets carry a special nail or repair mark from a licensed repairer. G-PAL repairs euro pallets under EPAL licence BG-308, an official licence issued by EPAL.
UIC
UIC euro pallets carry the UIC marking, which is associated with the railway standard. The size is the same – 1200×800 mm. In practice, many companies use them on a par with EPAL. See the new UIC euro pallet and the new EPAL euro pallet.
ISPM 15
The ISPM 15 mark shows that wood packaging material has been treated in line with the international phytosanitary standard. It’s mandatory when exporting goods on wooden pallets outside the EU. We work with manufacturers certified under ISPM 15.
How many euro pallets fit in a truck
A standard trailer measuring about 13.6 × 2.45 m usually takes 33 loaded euro pallets on the floor (single layer, not stacked). Empty pallets are stacked on top of each other, so far more fit in one truck. The exact number for a delivery depends on the vehicle – call us and we’ll tell you how many pallets we can bring to your address in a single trip. More about transport: Pallet delivery.
Euro pallet, skid or pallet collar – which to use when
- EPAL/UIC euro pallet – for exchange, for freight forwarders and retail chains, for heavy loads and repeated use.
- Euro-size skid 120×80 – for lighter loads and one-way shipments; better value.
- Pallet collar 1200×800 – turns a pallet into a box for bulk goods.
- Non-standard skid – when the load doesn’t fit 1200×800.
New or used
Dimensions and construction are identical. The difference lies in condition and price. New pallets have clean timber and a full service life. Used pallets come in two grades – light (less worn and more expensive) and dark (better value). See New euro pallets and Used pallets. For pricing, see Euro pallet price today.
How to check a used euro pallet
When you buy or accept used pallets, check a few things. First, the marking: is the logo on the corner blocks legible? Second, integrity: are there any broken or missing boards, split blocks or protruding nails? Third, moisture and cleanliness: a wet pallet is heavier and can develop mould, and one contaminated with oil or chemicals isn’t suitable for food. Fourth, flatness: a warped pallet is hard to stack and dangerous on racking.
At our yard we carry out this check on every pallet we buy back. Pallets are sorted into light and dark, and damaged ones are repaired under our licence or set aside. So when you buy used pallets from us, you get goods that have already been checked. If you have pallets that don’t meet your requirements, we can buy them back.
The euro pallet and other standards
Besides the 1200×800 euro pallet, logistics also uses other sizes – for example 1200×1000 mm pallets, often called industrial pallets, and 800×600 mm half pallets. They aren’t euro pallets in the sense of EPAL 1200×800 and aren’t exchanged for them. If you need a pallet in a size other than 1200×800, we can make a non-standard skid to order.
Enquiry
Have a question about size, load or marking, or do you need pallets? Write to us.
Frequently asked questions about euro pallet dimensions and weight
What are the dimensions of a euro pallet?
1200×800 mm, with a height of 144 mm. The dimensions are the same for EPAL and UIC.
How much does a euro pallet weigh?
About 25 kg. The weight varies by a few kilograms depending on the moisture content and type of timber.
How many nails does a euro pallet have?
78 nails, arranged in a pattern set by the standard. The pallet has 9 blocks.
How much weight can a euro pallet hold?
Roughly 1000–1500 kg when moved with an even load, and considerably more in static storage on a level floor. On racking and with a concentrated load, less.
Is a euro-size skid the same size?
Yes, 1200×800 mm, but it’s a lighter construction without EPAL/UIC marking and with a lower load capacity.
How can I tell whether a pallet is a genuine EPAL?
Look for the EPAL logo in an oval on the corner blocks and the marking on the centre block. If you’re not sure, send us a photo via Viber.
