How many cartons fit on a standard pallet?

A standard EUR pallet (1200 x 800 mm) can fit approximately 20-30 medium cartons (400 x 300 mm) in a single layer, depending on carton orientation. A standard US pallet (48 x 40 inches) fits approximately 15-20 similar cartons per layer. The total count depends on how many layers you can stack, which is limited by pallet height and weight capacity.

What is the maximum pallet height for shipping?

Standard pallet height limits are: LTL truck shipping — 60 inches (152 cm) including pallet; air freight — typically 160 cm (63 inches); sea freight container — 110 cm for 20ft, varies for 40ft; warehouse racking — depends on rack spacing, typically 150-200 cm. Always check with your carrier for specific limits.

What are the standard pallet sizes?

The most common pallet sizes are: EUR/EPAL (1200 x 800 mm / 47.2 x 31.5 in) used in Europe; US Standard (48 x 40 inches / 1219 x 1016 mm); ISO Standard (1200 x 1000 mm / 47.2 x 39.4 in); Australian (1165 x 1165 mm). The standard pallet height (deck) is typically 12-15 cm (4.7-5.9 in).

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Calculate how many cartons fit on a pallet. Optimize stacking for LTL, FCL, and warehouse storage with visual layout.

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Standard Pallet Sizes

EUR / EPAL (1200 × 800 mm): The most common pallet in Europe. Designed to fit perfectly in EU truck trailers (2400mm width = 2 EUR pallets side by side). Weight capacity: 2000-2500 kg dynamic, 1500 kg static.
US Standard (48 × 40 in / 1219 × 1016 mm): The standard GMA pallet used across North America. Fits well in 53ft truck trailers. Weight capacity: up to 4600 lbs (2086 kg).
ISO (1200 × 1000 mm): International standard used in Asia-Pacific and some European countries. Versatile for both truck and container shipping.
Australian (1165 × 1165 mm): Standard in Australia and New Zealand. Square format works well for container loading.

Pallet Stacking Tips

Interlocking pattern: Rotate alternate layers 90° for stability — reduces cartons per layer slightly but prevents toppling
Column stacking: Align all layers the same way — maximum cartons but less stable
Weight distribution: Heaviest cartons on bottom, lightest on top
Overhang: Cartons should never overhang the pallet by more than 25mm (1") — overhang reduces load capacity by up to 40%
Corner boards: Use cardboard corner protectors for loads over 1 meter high

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