What is a pallet?

A pallet is a standardized loading aid used in logistics and goods transport to transport, store, and pick goods safely, efficiently, and in a space-saving manner. It forms the basis for internal and inter-company goods transport using industrial trucks such as forklifts or pallet trucks.

Functions and benefits

Pallets are used to bundle goods into loading units that are easier to handle and transport. As they are standardized for automated storage systems, conveyor technology, and transport systems, they enable the efficient handling of logistics processes. In addition, they improve the utilization of storage and transport volumes, facilitate handling, and contribute to the stability and safety of goods.

Common types of pallets

The best known and most widely used type of pallet is the Euro pallet (EUR pallet). It is standardized (dimensions: 1,200 x 800 mm) and exchangeable in the international pallet pool. In addition, there are:

• Disposable pallets (often made of wood, plastic, or cardboard, not exchangeable),
• Plastic pallets (durable and hygienic, often used in the food or pharmaceutical industry),
• Chemical pallets (CP): standardized for the chemical industry,
• Industrial pallets with a larger format (e.g., 1,200 x 1,000 mm), and
• Special pallets (tailor-made for specific products or requirements).

Materials

Pallets are mainly made of wood, plastic, metal, or cardboard. Wooden pallets are particularly common because they are robust, inexpensive, and easy to repair. Plastic pallets score points for hygiene, low weight, and long service life. Metal pallets, on the other hand, are mostly used for special transports or high-bay warehouses.

Pallet logistics and return systems

An important issue in connection with pallets is pallet exchange, which is particularly significant in the case of Euro pallets. In open pool systems (e.g., EPAL), pallets are exchanged between manufacturers, distributors, and logistics service providers to prevent bottlenecks. Tracking, repair, and sorting also play a central role in this process.

The use of reusable pallets makes an important contribution to conserving resources and avoiding waste. Euro pallets can often remain in circulation for many years and are therefore an important part of sustainable supply chains.