A pallet is a flat transport platform used to stack, store, protect, and move goods with a forklift, pallet jack, or warehouse handling equipment. In logistics, pallets make freight easier to load, unload, count, store, and transport as a single unit. They are commonly made from wood, plastic, or metal and come in standard sizes depending on the country, industry, or carrier. For example, the 48×40 inch GMA pallet is most common in the U.S., while the Euro pallet (1200x800mm) is standard in Europe. Proper palletising helps reduce damage, improve warehouse efficiency, and support safer cargo handling. Where pallets are exchanged between shippers, receivers, and carriers, failing to return enough pallets of the required quality can trigger a pallet exchange fee.
- Enables forklift and pallet jack handling of stacked goods
- Standard U.S. GMA pallet: 48 x 40 inches
- Euro pallet (EUR/EPAL): 1200 x 800 mm
- Pallets must comply with ISPM 15 heat treatment requirements for international shipments
Related terms: Warehousing Services, LTL, CFS.
