How much does a pallet weigh?
A standard 48 × 40 in wooden GMA pallet weighs about 35 to 70 lb (16 to 32 kg), often around 48 lb when dry; a EUR / EPAL pallet weighs about 25 kg (55 lb). Plastic pallets range from under 15 lb for light export pallets to over 50 lb for heavy-duty ones.
Typical pallet weights
| Pallet | Size | Typical empty weight |
|---|---|---|
| Wood GMA stringer pallet | 48 × 40 in | 35–70 lb (16–32 kg) |
| EUR / EPAL block pallet | 1200 × 800 mm | about 25 kg (55 lb) |
| UK / ISO wood pallet | 1200 × 1000 mm | about 25–35 kg |
| Plastic export (nestable) | 48 × 40 in or 1200 × 800 mm | about 10–20 lb (5–9 kg) |
| Plastic rackable / heavy duty | 48 × 40 in | about 40–60 lb (18–27 kg) or more |
| Presswood (moulded wood) | 1200 × 800 mm | about 10–15 kg |
| Steel or aluminium | Various | Often 50–100 lb and up |
Figures are typical ranges; a wet, freshly cut or heavily built wood pallet can weigh much more than a dry, light one. Weigh one from your supplier if the weight matters for a limit.
Why the weight varies
- Wood species: hardwood pallets are heavier than softwood.
- Moisture: green wood holds a lot of water, and pallets dry out over weeks.
- Construction: block pallets and pallets with more deck boards weigh more than light stringer pallets.
- Size: a 48 × 48 in pallet weighs more than a 48 × 40.
How much weight can a pallet hold?
Pallets have separate ratings for a static load (on the floor), a dynamic load (moved by forklift) and a racking load. A typical wood 48 × 40 in pallet carries around 2,500 lb dynamic and much more static; an EUR pallet is commonly rated around 1,500 kg moving load. Light export pallets are rated far lower. Use your supplier's rating.
Using pallet weight in shipping
- Gross weight on the packing list and bill of lading includes the pallets.
- Freight class density is measured with the pallet; see the freight class calculator.
- Container VGM includes pallets and dunnage; see container weight.
- Air freight charges every kilogram; a light pallet can pay for itself.
Sources
Tools used in this guide
Related guides
Common questions
How much does a standard pallet weigh?
A standard 48 × 40 in wooden pallet usually weighs 35 to 70 lb (16 to 32 kg), often around 48 lb when dry.
How much does a euro pallet weigh?
About 25 kg (55 lb) for a standard EPAL 1200 × 800 mm pallet.
How much does a plastic pallet weigh?
From under 15 lb for nestable export pallets to 50 lb or more for heavy-duty rackable ones.
Should I include the pallet in the shipping weight?
Yes. Gross weight, freight class density and the container's VGM all include pallets.