Pallets

Load Carriers/ Transport Pallet

Definition:

Pallets Are standardized, reusable charge carrier, which are used to bundle, store and transport goods.
They serve as a stable basis for goods handling between warehouse, production, means of transport and customers. Pallets enable handling with industrial trucks (e.g. forklifts, pallet trucks) and are a central element of modern logistics.

Pallets are divided by material, dimensions, standards and Areas of use.
The most important international standards are:

1. Euro pallet (EPAL/EUR pallet)
   • ‍Measurements: 1,200 × 800 mm‍
   • Norm: DIN EN 13698-1, UIC standard 435-2‍
   • Load capacity: up to 1,500 kg (static up to 4,000 kg)‍
   • Material: mostly wood (certified & exchangeable)‍
   • Special feature: Part of the European pallet exchange system (EPAL/EUR)‍
   • Labeling: EPAL brand, IPPC/ISPM 15 stamp, country and license code

2. ‍Industrial pallet (1,200 × 1,000 mm)
   • Often used in the chemical and consumer goods industries.
   • Offers more space than the euro pallet.
   • Standardised in accordance with DIN EN 13698-2.
   • Not exchangeable everywhere, therefore often in the pooling system (e.g. CHEP, LPR).
3. ‍US pallet (GMA standard)
   • ‍Measurements: 1,219 x 1,016 mm (48 × 40 inches)‍
   • Norm: Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA)
   • Dominant standard in North America.
   • Carries up to 2,200 kg; usually wood or plastic.
   • No Europe-wide exchange system — export only allowed with ISPM 15 treatment.
4. ‍Japanese pallets (JIS standard)
   • ‍Norm: JIS Z 0602‍
   • Main dimensions:
     • 1,100 × 1,100 mm (standard in Asia)
     • 1,100 × 1,400 mm (for container compatibility)
   • Often plastic or metal pallets (due to moisture & hygiene).
   • Japan uses automated warehouse technology (AS/RS), which means precise tolerances.
5. ‍ISO pallets (international standards)
   • Norm: ISO 6780
   • Six internationally accepted pallet formats, including:
     • 1,200 × 1,000 mm (Europe/Asia)
     • 1,219 × 1,016 mm (North America)
     • 1,165 × 1,165 mm (Australia)
     • 1,100 × 1,100 mm (Japan)
   • Objective: worldwide compatibility for intercontinental trade.
6. ‍ISPM-15 standard (wood treatment for export)
   • Regulation: International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15
   • Applies to wooden pallets in international goods traffic‍
   • Requirement: Heat treatment (HT) or gassing to prevent pests.‍
   • Labeling: IPPC logo with country code and treatment code (HT/MB)
   • Purpose: Prevents the introduction of wood pests & ensures exportability.
7. ‍Other types of pallets
   • Plastic pallets: hygienic, moisture-resistant, suitable for food & pharmaceuticals.‍
   • Metal pallets: for heavy-duty and high-temperature environments.
   • Disposable pallets: cost-effective, for one-time shipping.
   • Chemical pallets (CP standard): CP1—CP9 for drums, IBCs, sacks (according to VCI recommendation).

Challenges when using pallets:

1. ‍Different standards & compatibility
   Deviating dimensions and standards lead to problems with the international exchange of goods, in automated warehouses and with container loading.
   _{Sources/further links:
   ISO 6780:2003 — Flat pallets for intercontinental materials handling: ISO 6780:2003 - Flat pallets forintercontinental materials handling — Principal dimensions and tolerances}

2. ‍Traceability & exchange systems
   Faulty markings or faulty pallets lead to disputes in the exchange system (EPAL, CHEP).
   _{Sources/further links:
   EPAL — exchange rules and quality assurance: https://www.epal-pallets.org}

3. ‍Sustainability & recycling
   Loss, damage and inefficient cycles increase costs and carbon footprint.
   _{Sources/further links:
   European Pallet Association — Sustainability Report 2023: https://www.epal-pallets.org}

Loady's solution:

Centrally maintained pallet and packaging requirements
In Loady, you can approved, recommended or prohibited pallet types (e.g. euro pallet, chemical pallet CP1—CP9, plastic pallet, disposable pallet) Site and product specific be deposited.
This means that all parties involved — from shippers to carriers — know in advance which type of pallet is required for transport or loading.

Transparent and consistent communication along the supply chain
All information about Pallet dimensions, exchange conditions, pooling systems and withdrawal requirements About Loady standardized, multilingual and digital provided.
This reduces misunderstandings, prevents incorrect deliveries and saves time during loading and unloading.

Quality Assurance & Compliance Support
By clearly documenting pallet requirements (e.g. ISPM 15 treatment, EPAL exchangeability), Loady ensures that Export requirements, hygiene requirements and legal standards be reliably complied with.