The shipping container market is dynamic and constantly changing, as new and unique container types are created to fulfil local and international trade demands. Pallet-wide containers are among many types of cargo containers that are actively used in the shipment of ocean freight. They are different from the standard ISO containers as they are more comprehensive in size and specially designed for pallet freight shipment.

This blog will briefly discuss the types of pallets used in pallet-wide containers globally.

What is a pallet? Why do we use Pallets?

A pallet is a base structure used for loading goods for transportation. It is a platform on which items are stacked to create a unit load. The pallet helps in providing a stable and load-bearing foundation for each unit so that it can easily be moved and loaded with a pallet jack, crane forklift, or other handling devices.

Pallets are available in various types, and most of them can efficiently carry a load of more than 1,000 kg (about 2204.62 lb) and are, therefore, well-suited for handling large amounts of cargo to be shipped. The use of pallets can make shipment faster and also allows more effortless movement and loading. For the safety and protection of cargo, pallets are often fastened by stretch wrap, strapping, shrink wrap, glue, and pallet collar.

What is a pallet-wide container?

Pallet-wide containers are particular container types designed to accommodate many pallets, especially Euro pallets. Due to their size and dimensions, they can house pallets more efficiently than a standard container. They are most commonly used in European trade. A famous European pallet is made of 1200 x 800m and is recognized all over Europe. It is a four-way entry pallet commonly made of wood and is nailed with 78 unique nails in a prescribed pattern.

Dimensions of pallet-wide container

Pallet-wide containers are available in three dimensions – 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft high cube containers.

20ft pallet-wide container

• Internal dimension 19’4 x 7’11 x 7’10
• External dimension 19’10 x 8’ x 8’6”
• A 20ft pallet wide container can fit 15 Euro pallets, four more than a standard 20ft container.

40ft pallet-wide container

• Internal dimension 39’5 x 7’11” x 7’10
• External dimension 40’ x 8’ x 8’6”
• A 40ft pallet wide container can fit 30 Euro pallets, five more than a standard 40ft container.

45ft HC pallet-wide container

• Internal dimension 44’5 x 7’11” x 8’10
• External dimension 45’ x 8’ x 9’6”
• A 45ft high cube pallet-wide container can accommodate 33 Euro pallets, six more than a standard 45ft HC pallet-wide container.

Types of Pallets used in pallet-wide containers

Pallets come in various sizes and are widely accessible on the market nowadays.

Out of the many potential sizes, six pallet sizes have been approved by the ISO and are now generally accepted as standard pallet sizes worldwide.

The ISO-recognized standard pallet dimension has several regional adaptations due to its history. For instance, a typical European pallet is 1200 X 800mm, which is small enough to pass through a doorway in a house. Therefore, you must locate the best pallet choice accessible for each nation before exporting your goods. In this manner, only additional expenses and delays will be incurred when moving your cargo to local pallets upon arrival.

ISO recognized pallets

European pallet

European pallets, known as the Euro Pallet or EPAL Pallet, come with the dimension of 1200X800mm and are among the most widely utilized pallets in pallet-wide shipping containers. These pallets are manufactured using hardwoods, softwoods, fiberboard, metals, and plastic. Since wood is the least expensive material, it is most commonly used to make such pallets.

Asian pallets

Asia’s two most famous pallet sizes are dimensions 1100mm x 1100mm and 1200mm x 1000mm. ISO recognizes both dimensions. However, during the shipment of goods from Asia to Europe and the United States, 1200mm x 1000mm is considered a better option for export as these dimensions integrate nicely into US and European systems.

North American pallets

There are a wide variety of pallet dimensions used in North America, but the most widely used are dimensions 40″x48″. Moreover, it is also the size of the GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) approved pallet. Also, such pallets are approved by ISO and are widely seen throughout North America.

Australian pallet

Australia’s most common and ISO-approved pallet size is 1165mm × 1165mm. The dimensions of Australian pallets are very suitable for fitting them in an Australian RACE container. Australian standard pallets are typically made up of square softwood or hardwood, which are not common in any other country.

Advantages of pallet-wide containers

Less friction

The pallet-wide container comes with wooden flooring, ensuring less friction and keeping your goods safe and secure.

Ideal for transportation of Euro pallets

You can transport goods such as raw materials, extensive industrial tools and equipment, tools, and of course, a large number of Euro pallets smoothly.

The best option for storing goods

Pallet-wide containers can also be excellent for keeping your cargo safe and secure. Apart from a secure storage unit, they are also ideal for shipments of goods and commodities.

Less cost of product packaging

Pallet-wide containers are well renowned for being affordable and cost-effective. They can cut the optional cost by 15% because of the shortened shipment time and product packing.

Less damage and slipping of freight

The pallet-wide containers are more extended than the ISO container, which means they have more storage space. Thus, one can be assured that all pallets are stacked without force.

Safety and Security

Pallet-wide containers have a sturdy structure and an excellent blend of strength and functionality. Due to their robust exterior, they are considered wind and watertight, ensuring your cargo is protected from extreme weather conditions.

Nowadays, most shipments are carried using pallet-wide containers as they offer more space than the standard ISO container. The size of pallets differs from country to country, and so far, the ISO has recognized size pallet dimensions all over the globe.

European pallets are amongst the most widely used ISO-approved pallet dimensions. Pallets-wide containers provide plenty of benefits, such as the safety and security of goods, adequate storage capacity, easy transportation of euro pallets and many more.

Hope this information on the types of pallets used in pallet-wide containers helped analyse which one to choose. LOTUS Containers is a leading container supplier that provides different types of containers across various locations. Follow for more.