A Complete Guide to Standard Pallet Sizes in the U.S.

Choosing the right pallet size isn't just a logistics detail — it's a decision that affects warehouse efficiency, transportation costs, and product safety. Here's a comprehensive look at the most common pallet sizes used in the United States and when to use each one.

The GMA Standard: 48" x 40"

The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) pallet is the workhorse of the American supply chain. At 48 inches by 40 inches, it accounts for roughly 30% of all new pallets produced in the U.S. each year.

This size fits perfectly in standard 53-foot trailers (you can fit 20–21 GMA pallets per truck), works with most racking systems, and is the expected standard for grocery, retail, and consumer goods.

Other Common Sizes

While the GMA dominates, other industries have their own preferred dimensions:

Euro Pallets

If you're shipping internationally, you may encounter the EUR pallet at 1200mm x 800mm (approximately 47.2" x 31.5"). These are the standard in European logistics and are not directly interchangeable with GMA pallets.

How to Choose

Consider these factors when selecting a pallet size:

Custom Sizes

Sometimes standard just doesn't cut it. Maybe you're shipping oversized machinery or oddly shaped components. Custom pallets can be built to exact specifications — and at Stockton Pallet Co., we can source or build custom sizes to match your needs.

Availability of Used Pallets by Size

The 48" x 40" GMA pallet is by far the most available in the used market because of its ubiquity. Other sizes can be harder to find in used condition, but a good supplier maintains diverse inventory. We keep stock of the most popular sizes and can locate specialty dimensions with short lead times.