At Grotech Production, we handle a huge number of pallets, both with incoming raw materials and packaging and with outgoing products. There are a bewildering range of pallet sizes (and formats, styles and materials) available globally – however, here we will concentrate on the most widely available pallet sizes in the UK and the sizes that we use most at Grotech Production.
How to Measure a Pallet
When quoting pallet sizes, the standard methodology is to use the stringer or stringerboard length as the first measurement and the deckboard length as the second length.
So a pallet measuring 1200 mm x 1000 mm will look different to a pallet measuring 1000 mm x 1200 mm, as you can see in this image.
Standardized Pallet Sizes
There are three pallet sizing systems that are applicable to the manufacturing we do here at Grotech Production –
- The International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) has approved six different pallet sizes which are now widely used as standard around the globe.
- The EUR-pallet is the standard European pallet as specified by the European Pallet Association (EPAL).
- CP pallets are standardized for the chemical and polymer industry – the CP Pallet scheme was started in the early 1990’s by the German Chemicals Industry Association (VCI).
ISO Approved Global Pallet Sizes –
| Region Most Used | Dimensions (mm) |
| Europe (ISO1) | 800 x 1200 |
| Europe, Asia (ISO2) | 1200 x 1000 |
| North America | 1219 x 1016 |
| Australia | 1165 x 1165 |
| North America, Europe, Asia | 1067 x 1067 |
| Asia | 1100 x 1100 |
European Standard Pallet Sizes –
| Dimensions (mm) | |
| Europe Standard Size (EUR, EUR 1) | 800 x 1200 |
| UK Standard Size (EUR 2) | 1200 x 1000 |
| EUR 3 | 1000 x 1200 |
| Half Europe Standard Size (EUR 6) | 800 x 600 |
CP Pallet Sizes –
| Dimensions (mm) | |
| CP1 | 1000 x 1200 |
| CP2 | 800 x 1200 |
| CP3 | 1140 x 1140 |
| CP4 | 1100 x 1300 |
| CP5 | 760 x 1140 |
| CP6 | 1200 x 1000 |
| CP7 | 1300 x 1100 |
| CP8 | 1140 x 1140 |
| CP9 | 1140 x 1140 |
Pallet Considerations for Chemical Products
Selecting the right pallet is straightforward when you’re dealing with light, stable loads. Chemical products are rarely that simple. Weight, packaging format, hazard classification, and storage conditions all influence which pallet is appropriate – and getting it wrong can create safety risks, damage goods in transit, or cause problems at the point of delivery.
Weight & Load Distribution
Bulk liquids are among the heaviest loads a standard pallet will carry. A single IBC (intermediate bulk container) of 1,000 litres can weigh over a tonne when full. Even smaller formats add up quickly — 40 x 25-litre drums on a EUR pallet will approach the maximum safe working load for most standard timber pallets. Always confirm the dynamic and static load ratings of your chosen pallet before loading, and factor in the cumulative weight of packaging as well as product.
Powder products in bulk bags (FIBCs) present a different challenge. The load is central and the bag itself is flexible, which means the pallet needs to support the base evenly. CP9 pallets — with their closed deck design — are often preferred for this reason, preventing the bag base from sagging between deck boards.
Hazardous Goods
Products classified as dangerous goods under ADR regulations require pallets that are structurally sound and free from damage. Broken deck boards, protruding nails, or weakened blocks are not acceptable under ADR, and loads must be secured to prevent movement during transport. If your products carry a UN number, your logistics provider will expect pallets that meet these standards — it is worth confirming pallet condition and compatibility before despatch rather than at the loading bay.
Chemical Storage Considerations
Not all pallets are suitable for chemical storage environments. Timber pallets can absorb spills, which creates contamination risks and potential issues with subsequent use of the pallet. In controlled storage areas, plastic pallets are sometimes preferred for this reason — they are non-absorbent, easier to decontaminate, and more resistant to chemical degradation.
For racked storage, check that your chosen pallet size is compatible with the racking system at your warehouse or your customer’s facility. The EUR 1 (800 x 1200mm) and UK Standard (EUR 2, 1200 x 1000mm) pallets are the most widely supported formats in UK racking systems, which is one reason they remain the dominant choice for chemical distribution.
Pack Format Compatibility
The pack format you are using will often determine your pallet choice as much as the product itself. Drums, cans, bottles, and bulk bags all have different footprints and stacking characteristics. At Grotech Production we routinely advise customers on the most efficient pallet configuration for their specific pack format — if you are unsure, speak to our manufacturing team before committing to a format and volume.
At Grotech Production, the most common pallet sizes we use are the UK Standard size (EUR 2), the European Standard Size (EUR, EUR 1) and the CP Pallet size CP9, but if you would like to discuss the use of other sizes/formats for your packaging, please contact our Helpful Manufacturing People on 01405 761746.
