Pallets are the most used base when handling products and their storage in rack units. Pallets made of wood dominate product palletization. Lately, though, plastic pallets are gaining ground and can be made from recycled materials. Finally, certain sectors use metal pallets, which are obviously more resistant. On the downside, they are heavier and cost more.

When choosing the best type of pallet for a warehouse, besides the material it is made of, it is also fundamental to keep pallet size in mind. According to the product type, the storage system and the regulations in each country, one type pallet may be more suitable than another. For example, European countries mostly use a format called the European pallet or Euro pallet. With standardized 47.2 inches long by 31.5 inches wide measurements, this pallet offers large-scale advantages by being combinable with any storage system.

Standardized European pallet sizes lead to pallet load optimization. After all, when product arrives pre-boxed, this makes it easier to stack them on pallets, –provided the box sizes come in 31.5 in x 47.2 in sub-multiples.

A standard pallet

  • Wooden pallets

    The most commonly used pallets are made of wood. There are numerous models on the market, with different sizes and finishes.

  • Metal pallets

    Metal pallets are the mostly used in the automobile industry and in metal works processes.

  • Plastic pallets

    When comparing pallets made of plastic over those made of wood, plastic ones have certain advantages (lighter weight, easier to clean, etc.). However, there are also disadvantages to think about.