Logistics 101: A Comprehensive Guide to the European Pallet (EPAL/EUR Pallet)
The European Pallet, commonly referred to as the EPAL pallet or EUR pallet, is the most widely used standardized wooden pallet across Europe. Its design, dimensions, and load-bearing capacity are all governed by the European Pallet Association (EPAL) to ensure seamless compatibility across the continent’s logistics network.
📏 1. Standard Dimensions
The official EUR pallet measures 1200mm × 800mm (47.2 in × 31.5 in).
This size fits perfectly in European trucks, shipping containers, and warehouse racking systems, making it the most common pallet size across the EU.
- Amazon Guidelines:
When used for FBA shipments, Amazon limits the palletized height (including the pallet) to 180 cm.- Therefore, maximum load height on a EUR pallet = 165 cm.
- For commercial addresses, the max height may go up to 200 cm, pallet included.
Other Common EU Pallet Sizes:
- 1200 mm × 1000 mm (Industrial pallet)
- 800 mm × 600 mm (Half pallet)
Note: The term “European pallet” strictly refers to the 1200 × 800 mm standard.
🪵 2. Key Features
- Material: Typically made from pine or spruce, treated for pests and mold (heat-treated to meet ISPM 15 standards).
- Construction:
- 5 top boards (3 wide center boards, 2 narrower side boards)
- 3 bottom runners or 9 wood blocks
- Rounded corners for four-way forklift access
- Markings:
- EPAL logo and EUR mark on the sides
- Unique manufacturer number, inspection stamp, and IPPC certification mark
🏋️♂️ 3. Load Capacities
| Load Type | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Dynamic Load | 1,500 kg |
| Static Load | 4,000 kg |
| Racking Load | ≤ 1,000 kg |
- Dynamic Load: When the pallet is in motion (e.g., on a forklift)
- Static Load: When stacked and stationary
- Racking Load: When used on a warehouse racking system
🚚 4. Applications
- Transportation:
Fully compatible with EU road, rail, and sea logistics networks - Warehousing:
Designed to fit seamlessly into automated racking systems - Pallet Pooling Systems:
Widely used in closed-loop rental or exchange programs such as CHEP or LPR, improving sustainability and efficiency
🧾 5. Certifications & Standards
- EPAL Certified: Ensures quality control and compliance across Europe
- ISPM 15 Compliant: Approved for international shipping (heat-treated for pest control)
- UIC 435-2: Rail transport compatibility under International Union of Railways standards
🔍 6. EUR Pallet vs. Other Pallet Types
| Type | Dimensions | Reusability | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/EPAL Pallet | 1200×800 mm | High | Yes (EPAL/IPPC) |
| US Standard Pallet | 48×40 inches (1219×1016 mm) | Medium | No EPAL marking |
| One-way Pallet | Varies | Low | No |
🌱 7. Sustainability
- Reusable and repairable for 5–10 years
- Can be recycled into wood chips or biomass fuel
- Standardization reduces pallet waste and improves return logistics
✅ How to Identify a Genuine EPAL Pallet
Look for:
- EPAL logo
- EUR steel branding
- IPPC/HT stamp for international compliance
Using standardized pallets like EPAL improves supply chain compatibility, cost efficiency, and environmental performance across Europe.
