Pallet variations – dimensions, materials, and surface finish

When you hear the word pallet, you probably think of a simple wooden product of crude construction used to transport goods. But the reality is not so straight-forward.

Did you know that there is far from just one size of pallet, or that materials other than wood can be used for pallet production, or even that there are completely atypical pallets that can be adapted to specific goods in terms of load capacity and dimensions?

There are no limits to the dimensions

When manufacturing certain types of pallets, it is necessary to comply with the exact dimensions specified in the standard. A typical example is the Euro pallet with the dimensions 120 x 80 cm, which must comply with the European Pallet Association (EPAL) regulations in terms of appearance and the number of boards and nails used. It has the advantage of a high load capacity, in some cases up to 2,000 kg. If you would like to learn more about the Euro pallet, please check out the separate article HERE.

The most frequently requested pallet dimensions:

• 120 x 80 cm (europallet)
• 80 x 60 (half pallet)
• 60 x 40 (quarter pallet)
• 120 x 100 (“industrial” pallet)
• 80 x 80 cm
• 100 x 70 cm
• 120 x 120 cm
• 200 x 80 cm

Our automatic palletising lines can produce any size product up to large pallets, with dimensions of 200 x 140 cm. The dimensions can be really different, and this creates a whole range of atypical pallets which our company specialises in producing.

Types of pallets

Types of palettes according to the material used:

• Wooden
• Plastic (usually thermoplastic polymers)
• Metal (usually sheet steel)
• Moulded (from recycled sawdust)

Types of palettes by construction:

• Open pallets (EUR)
• Block pallets
• Oblong pallets
• Closed pallets
• Roller pallets

Selection of materials and special features

The wooden palette is an all-time classic that has worked reliably for many decades. The timber itself can be supplemented with added cardboard, creating a new specific space for transporting goods.

The composition of the palette is variable. Our company produces pallets both with gaps between boards and in combination with large-area material.

Most frequently used on surfaces are:

• OSB
• chipboard
• plywood

Pallets are also surface treated and always depend on the customer’s requirements.

Finishing of wooden pallets:

• Planing
• Sanding
• Anti-rot treatment
• Drying (e.g. according to requirements of IPPC certification or according to customer requirements)

Plastic pallets

Recently, plastic has also become an increasingly popular material for pallet production. Plastic pallets have the advantage of low weight, good load capacity, long service life, and also resistance to temperature range and weather conditions. They are washable and not subject to rot or pest attack. In addition, they can be recycled, and the recycled plastic can be used to make other products. Plastic pallets are used mainly from a hygienic point of view, especially in the food industry.

The right pallet for the right goods

New pallets accompany a wide variety of goods, allowing products from manufacturers to reach all around the world. And since every product is unique, you also need to choose the right palette to go with it. CP pallets are specially developed for the chemical industry. Pallets with added cardboard are suitable for transporting spare car parts, for example. Plastic has proven its suitability for the food industry. But the life of a pallet doesn’t just end with the transport of goods. Machined, planed and sanded pallets can be used, for example, for the production of popular pallet furniture. Are you tempted to recycle used pallets and beautify your home with them? Then take a look at our article on pallet furniture HERE and let us know if we’ve inspired you.