For a freight quotation, a pallet's loaded dimensions and gross weight matter more than its name. Measure the goods, pallet, wrapping and any overhang together. Include the pallet in the overall height and weight.
Common footprints used in UK supply chains
Footprints are shown with the longer side first. Orientation does not change the size. Dimensions are millimetres; empty-pallet height is not the permitted loaded height.
| Pallet description | Footprint (mm) | Empty height | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK standard footprint | 1,200 × 1,000 | Varies by design | Construction, condition and rated load |
| Euro / EPAL 1 | 1,200 × 800 | 144 mm | Genuine markings and exchange requirements |
| EPAL 2 industrial pallet | 1,200 × 1,000 | 162 mm | Different construction from EPAL 1 despite a familiar footprint |
| CHEP UK wooden pallet | 1,200 × 1,000 | Depends on the specified model | Pool account, authorised use and return arrangements |
| Half Euro footprint | 800 × 600 | Varies by design | Handling and receiving-site acceptance |
Sources: EPAL Euro pallet, EPAL 2, EPAL range and CHEP UK products. Specifications checked on 8 November 2026.
CHEP is a pooling system, not a single pallet size. Its range includes UK and Euro footprints and different materials. Blue CHEP pallets remain CHEP property and need appropriate pooling/return arrangements; do not assume they can be sold, discarded or used as unrestricted one-way packaging. See CHEP's guidance on blue pallets.
Materials and construction
Timber pallets
Timber pallets are widely used for general freight. Check for damage, loose boards, projecting nails, contamination and the suitability of the construction for the load. Block and stringer designs, and two-way or four-way fork entry, can affect handling. A pallet suitable for a forklift is not automatically suitable for every pallet truck, conveyor or racking system.
Plastic pallets
Plastic pallets can suit reusable handling systems and applications where cleanability is important. Designs may be nestable, stackable or rackable; these terms are not interchangeable. Confirm the model's rating and compatibility with the destination's equipment. Do not assume every plastic pallet is suitable for food contact or unsupported racking.
One-way and reusable pallets
One-way describes the intended movement or commercial arrangement, not a standard size or load rating. A one-way pallet may be timber, plastic or another material. It still needs to support the goods throughout transport and handling.
Reusable, exchange and pooled pallets have different ownership and return arrangements. Agree whether the receiver will retain, exchange or return the pallets, and whether an account transfer or charge applies. Merely matching a footprint does not make pallets exchangeable.
Pressed-wood, cardboard and specialist pallets
Alternative materials can be useful for particular products or one-way movements. Check moisture exposure, support requirements, handling access and the manufacturer's load specification rather than assuming they perform like a conventional timber pallet. Discuss unusual bases, skids, stillages or pallet boxes before booking.
Load ratings and packing
Static loading, dynamic handling and racking ratings describe different conditions. Use the pallet manufacturer's specification for your actual load and support arrangement; there is no universal safe weight for all UK or Euro-sized pallets. Carrier and tail-lift limits may be lower than the pallet's rating.
Keep the load stable, distribute weight appropriately and secure goods to the pallet. Avoid overhang where possible. Tell AJF about non-stackable goods, top-heavy loads, fragile contents, protrusions or any restriction on placing freight above the pallet. A nominal pallet booking is not permission to exceed the agreed size or weight.
Timber packaging on international routes
Solid-wood pallets and other wood packaging may need ISPM 15 treatment and compliant markings, depending on the movement. Great Britain, Northern Ireland and overseas destinations must not be treated as one identical regime. Processed-wood packaging can fall under different rules; check the material and route before shipment. See GOV.UK wood packaging import/export guidance.
Information to send AJF
Provide the pallet count, loaded dimensions, gross weight of each pallet, stackability, goods description and collection/delivery access details. State any tail-lift requirement and pallet pooling or exchange instructions. Measure in millimetres or centimetres and clearly identify the units.
See container sizes and UK trailer sizes, or contact AJF for help planning your shipment.