Logistics Guide
Euro Pallet Dimensions, Weight Limits & Loading Rules for Road Freight 2026
Complete reference for EUR pallet sizes (EPAL), weight limits, stacking rules, and how pallet dimensions affect LTL freight pricing in Europe.
1. EUR Pallet (EPAL) Dimensions
The standard EUR pallet (also called EPAL pallet or Euro pallet) measures 1200 × 800 mm (120 × 80 cm). Height of the empty pallet is 144 mm. Maximum load capacity is 1,500 kg for dynamic loads (on a moving truck) and 5,500 kg for static stacking. The EUR pallet is the dominant format in European road freight — approximately 80% of all palletised LTL shipments in the EU use this size. It is standardised under UIC 435-2 and managed by the European Pallet Association (EPAL).
2. Other Common Pallet Sizes
The half-pallet (EUR 6) measures 800 × 600 mm — used for retail display pallets. The EUR 2 pallet is 1200 × 1000 mm — common in the UK and for heavy industrial goods. The EUR 3 is 1000 × 1200 mm (same dimensions rotated). Industrial pallets at 1200 × 1200 mm are used in chemical and beverage logistics. When booking LTL freight, always specify the exact pallet footprint — non-standard sizes may be charged at the next-larger standard rate.
3. How Pallet Dimensions Affect LTL Pricing
LTL groupage freight in Europe is priced by loading metres (LDM), not just weight. One EUR pallet (120 × 80 cm) occupies 0.4 LDM when loaded crosswise in a standard 2.4m-wide trailer. Two EUR pallets side by side = 0.8 LDM. If your pallet exceeds standard height (typically 180 cm including pallet) or is non-stackable, it is charged as a full vertical slot. Overhanging pallets that exceed the 120 × 80 footprint are charged at the actual footprint rounded up to the next standard size. Weight is also a factor: if a pallet weighs more than 750–1,000 kg, the rate may be adjusted upward even if the physical space is standard.
4. Stacking and Height Rules
Standard trailer internal height is 2.70 m (mega-trailers: 3.00 m). Maximum pallet height including the pallet itself is typically 180 cm for stackable loads. Non-stackable pallets block the full vertical space between the deck and ceiling, effectively doubling their LDM charge. Always shrink-wrap or strap pallets to ensure stability during transit. Fragile or top-heavy loads should be marked as non-stackable on the CMR and booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dimensions of a Euro pallet?
A standard EUR pallet (EPAL) is 1200 × 800 mm (120 × 80 cm) with a height of 144 mm. This is the most widely used pallet in European road freight, standardised under UIC 435-2.
How much weight can a Euro pallet hold?
An EPAL Euro pallet has a dynamic load capacity of 1,500 kg (on a moving truck) and a static stacking capacity of 5,500 kg. In practice, most carriers limit individual pallet weight to 800–1,000 kg for LTL groupage to maintain safe stacking.
What is a loading metre (LDM) and how does it affect pricing?
A loading metre is one linear metre of trailer floor space across the full 2.4m width. One EUR pallet loaded crosswise takes 0.4 LDM. LTL rates in Europe are typically quoted per LDM or per pallet position, with weight-based adjustments for heavy pallets.
What happens if my pallet is non-stackable?
Non-stackable pallets occupy the full vertical space from floor to ceiling. This means they are charged at approximately double the LDM rate of a stackable pallet, since no other cargo can be placed on top. Always indicate stackability when booking.