Pallets are the backbone of efficient cargo transport. Whether shipping boxes of electronics or using spill containment pallets for liquids, smart pallet packing can significantly reduce shipping costs. Today’s blog will explore container pallet capacity by size and share seven expert tips to help maximize every inch of your shipping container.
Understanding container dimensions
Before diving into how many pallets fit in a container, it’s essential to understand the space you’re working with.
A standard 20-foot container offers around 33 cubic meters of internal volume, while a 40-foot container provides approximately 67 cubic meters. Depending on the shipping line and equipment used, their internal dimensions are:
- 20-foot container: 90 meters (19 feet 4 inches) in length x 2.35 meters (7 feet 8 inches) in width x 2.39 meters (7 feet 10 inches) in height.
- 40-foot container: 03 meters (39 feet 5 inches) in length x 2.35 meters (7 feet 8 inches) in width x 2.39 meters (7 feet 10 inches) in height.
For more detailed measurements of shipping containers, you can check this article for a complete breakdown.
However, not all that space is usable, especially when loading pallets. It is where container pallet sizing becomes essential. Pallet dimensions vary by region, and these differences directly impact how efficiently you can load your cargo. Keep reading!
Standard container pallet sizes
Euro pallet (EUR1): 1200mm x 800mm (47.2" x 31.5")
Widely used in Europe, Latin America, India, New Zealand, and the UK, the Euro pallet is a top choice for efficient container loading. It fits seamlessly in a pallet-wide container, allowing for tight packing and minimal wasted space.
UK standard pallet: 1200mm x 1000mm (47.2" x 39.4")
This pallet is commonly used for domestic and export shipments across the UK and is especially favored in industrial applications.
US GMA pallet: 1219mm x 1016mm (48" x 40")
It is the go-to container pallet in North America, particularly in the retail, food, and beverage industries. Each pallet typically holds up to 4,600 lbs and weighs about 37 lbs.
Australian pallet: 1165mm x 1165mm (45.9" x 45.9")
Australian warehouses use this square pallet frequently for racking and storage. Teams can transfer it directly from transport to shelving. However, its non-standard size limits its use in international shipping.
How many pallets fit in a 20ft container?
When loading a 20ft container with Euro pallets, you can typically fit 11 pallets in a single-stacking layout. In contrast, UK standard pallets have a wider footprint, which reduces capacity slightly. You can usually fit 9 to 10 pallets.
On the other hand, a 20-foot container holds up to 10 US GMA pallets. However, this layout often leaves narrow gaps at the edges, so you may need dunnage or corner bracing to stabilize the load during transit.
As for Australian pallets, their square shape makes them less container-friendly. You might squeeze in 9 pallets but expect more unused floor space.
How many pallets fit in a 40ft container?
When loading Euro pallets, you can typically fit 23 to 24 pallets in a single stack. For UK standard pallets, the slightly wider footprint reduces the total count, so you can usually load 20 to 21 pallets.
With US GMA pallets, depending on your loading pattern, you can expect to fit around 20 pallets per 40ft container. In addition, you’ll fit 18 to 20 pallets if you’re using Australian pallets.
Container Pallet load considerations
While pallet count matters, weight capacity is just as critical, especially when loading a full container pallet setup. A standard 20ft container can handle up to 62,016 lbs, and a 40ft container accommodates 63,383 pounds of cargo. However, you can’t stack indiscriminately.
For example, a single Euro pallet has a recommended working load of around 3,300 lbs, while a standard pallet supports about 2,750 lbs before stacking becomes risky. Overloading can compromise safety and also cause shipment delays or rejections at ports.
Need help optimizing your container space? Our experts can create a customized plan to ensure every inch of your pallet-wide container is used efficiently, making global shipping faster and safer.
Tips to maximize container space
Plan ahead
Before loading, assess your cargo weight, dimensions, and stacking needs. Create a loading plan that minimizes space and ensures cargo stability.
Choose the right pallet type
Select the ideal container pallet size and type for your shipments. Arrange goods to maximize both height and floor coverage without exceeding weight limits.
Floor load irregular cargo
For irregularly shaped or loose items, skip the pallets. Load them directly onto the container floor, filling gaps with smaller items or padding material to prevent movement.
Double stack when possible
Stack pallets or cargo vertically to utilize the full height of the container.
Optimize packaging design
Use a uniform, stackable packaging that fits well with the pallet and container dimensions, eliminating gaps and maximizing load density.
Distribute weight evenly
Ensure even weight distribution across the container floor, placing heavier items at the bottom. It maintains stability and ensures compliance with weight regulations at ports and during transit.
Use vertical space
Consider installing temporary shelving or racks for smaller items to free up floor space and take full advantage of the container’s height.
Why choose ASLG for your container shipping?
We offer tailored solutions for shipping pallets and a variety of cargo types, including batteries, vape products, and more. We aim to optimize your load to reduce costs and improve transit times. Additionally, we provide various services, including freight forwarding, customs brokerage, Amazon FBA shipping, and warehousing.
