Shipping Pallets Frequently Asked Questions

If you are shipping freight, knowing how to use pallets is a must. Shipping pallets protect your cargo, makes loading and unloading efficient, and maximizes space in a shipping truck. how to use pallets for shipping freight, you probably have several questions. If you don't have much experience using pallets to prepare freight for shipment, you likely have a lot of questions. Below are answers to common questions that we get asked about using pallets to ship freight.

What's the standard pallet size used for shipping?

When we are talking about pallet dimensions, we always talk about the length first and then the width. The standard size of most wood pallets is 48 inches by 40 inches.

When to use a pallet for shipping?

If you have a large number of boxes that are all being shipped to the same destination, or you are shipping large items, then it is recommended to ship in the form of a pallet.

What are the different pallet sizes?

The most common standard pallet dimensions are:

  • 48 inches by 40 inches
  • 42 inches by 42 inches
  • 48 inches by 48 inches

How much weight can a shipping pallet hold?

A standard wood pallet can hold up to 4,600 pounds.

What is the maximum shipping pallet size for air cargo?

The maximum pallet size for air cargo is usually 96 inches x 125 inches; however, this may depend on the air cargo line.

How much does pallet shipping cost?

The cost of pallet shipping is going to depend on the size of the pallet, the weight of the pallet, the final destination, and the freight class of the shipment Click here to learn how to class your freight.

How many shipping pallets in a container?

It depends on the size of the pallet and the size of the container. The most common container sizes are 20 feet and 40 feet. Per 20 feet, the average container can hold about 10 standard pallets.

How tall can a pallet be for shipping?

In general, a pallet should be no taller than 60 inches for shipping.

How much does a pallet weigh?

A typical 48×40 wood pallet will weigh about 40 pounds.

What are the types of shipping pallets?

There are several different types of shipping pallets. Block pallets are among the sturdiest pallets because they had them made with parallel and perpendicular stringers. Stringer pallets are 2 inches by 4 inches and have two-way forklift openings. Four-way pallets have forklift openings on four sides while two-way pallets have openings on two sides and are also called "unnotched."

What is pallet strength?

The pallet strength is a reference to how much weight a pallet can hold before it breaks. In general, every pallet is a sign of strength that is the equivalent of 2 1/2 times less than the average breaking point. For example, if a pallet is going to break at 6,000 pounds, then it will have a strength capacity of roughly 2,400 pounds.

Why are there slots in the sides of shipping pallets?

A lot of pallets are going to be lifted by a forklift. If there are slots in the pallets, this makes it easier for forklifts to lift them quickly and safely. If you want to make the loading and unloading process as easy as possible, you need to use pallets that have slots of them.

What does the ISPM-15 stamp mean?

This stamp indicates that the pallet meets international shipping requirements. Usually, it means that these shipping pallets have been treated specifically to prevent the accumulation of insects, bacteria, and viruses. This also reduces the chances of causing damage to a local environment.

How do I ship a pallet of freight?

If you are going to ship a pallet of freight, then you should follow the National Motor Freight Classification Guidelines. Unishippers can help you with all of your freight shipping needs. We invite you to request a quote for your next shipment here by completing the short quote form. Unishippers works with more than 75+ LTL carriers, including UPS, to offer you the most competitive rates. As a leading 3PL shipping company, we provide an extensive range of freight shipping options to nearly 125,000+ clients. Unishippers looks forward to receiving your quote and providing you with outstanding customer service.

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