UK Pallet Sizes Explained: Euro, Standard & Oversized

The standard UK pallet measures 1200mm × 1000mm, and the Euro pallet measures 1200mm × 800mm. Those two footprints cover most freight moving around the UK. Half, quarter and oversized pallets are defined mainly by how tall and heavy the load is, and those limits vary between carriers — so it is always worth checking before you book.

Getting the size and weight right matters because it decides which vehicle a carrier sends, whether a tail lift is needed, and what you pay. This guide explains the common UK pallet sizes and what they mean for your delivery.

Common UK pallet sizes at a glance

The base of a typical wooden pallet is around 140mm to 160mm tall and weighs roughly 20kg to 30kg empty, which counts towards the total weight of your consignment.

The UK standard pallet (1200 × 1000mm)

Sometimes called the UK pallet or ISO pallet, the 1200mm × 1000mm base is the default for UK warehousing and road freight. Racking, forklifts and most pallet networks are built around it. If you are unsure what you have, measure the base: if it is 1.2m by 1m, it is a standard UK pallet.

The Euro pallet (1200 × 800mm)

The Euro pallet is narrower at 1200mm × 800mm. Genuine EPAL pallets carry a stamp on the corner blocks. They are common on goods imported from Europe and in retail distribution. Because they are narrower, more Euro pallets can fit across a vehicle's floor than standard UK pallets, although most UK carriers price the two similarly for single-pallet jobs.

Half, quarter and mini pallets

UK pallet networks usually define smaller pallet services by height and weight rather than by a different base. A half pallet might mean a standard base loaded to around half the full height with a lower weight limit; a quarter or mini pallet is lower and lighter again. Each network sets its own limits, so check the exact figures with your carrier before booking — a pallet that is slightly too tall or heavy for its category is usually re-charged at the next size up.

Pallet weight limits

A well-made wooden pallet can carry well over a tonne, but the limit that matters is usually set by the carrier and the vehicle, not the pallet itself:

• Pallet networks commonly cap a full pallet at around 1,000kg to 1,200kg, with lower limits for half and quarter pallets.
• Tail lifts on Luton vans are typically rated around 500kg, so a heavier pallet may need a forklift at both ends or a larger vehicle.
• Vehicle payload limits the total weight on board — a Luton van typically carries around 1,000kg in total, which is why several heavy pallets may need a 7.5 tonne truck.

This is why Triple ACS quotes guide prices on a standard pallet of up to 500kg — it fits safely on a tail-lift Luton, which covers most single-pallet same day jobs.

How pallet size and weight affect your quote

1. Vehicle choice. One or two light pallets can go in a large van; heavier or multiple pallets need a Luton or a 7.5 tonne truck.
2. Tail lift or forklift. If there is no forklift at collection or delivery, the pallet must be light enough for a tail lift.
3. Height and stacking. Tall or non-stackable pallets take up more of the vehicle, which can affect the price on shared loads.
4. Oversize. Goods overhanging the base may need a larger vehicle or extra securing, and should always be mentioned when booking.

For a dedicated same day vehicle, distance is still the main driver of cost. At Triple ACS a single standard pallet typically costs £180 – £260 for local runs up to 50 miles, rising to £520 – £650+ for runs over 300 miles. See our same day pallet delivery prices or the full breakdown in how much same day pallet delivery costs.

What to tell us when you book

• Pallet footprint (standard, Euro or other) and the total height including the base.
• Approximate total weight of each pallet.
• How many pallets, and whether they can be stacked.
• Whether there is a forklift or loading dock at collection and delivery.
• Anything fragile, overhanging or unusually shaped.

With those details we can send the right vehicle first time and give you an accurate price. Call 07585 733622, message us on WhatsApp, or request a quote online — we reply within 1 hour.