48×40 Pallet Weight and Weight Capacity – Complete Guide
48×40 is the most common size for pallets in North America. It is also referred to as GMA (Grocery Manufacturers
Knowing pallet weight is important for freight cost calculations, warehouse storage planning, load distribution, and compliance with industry regulations. Accurate weight can help you prevent overloading, reduce fuel expense, and ensure proper equipment selection.
The average pallet weight is 30 lbs. to 70 lbs (13.61 kg to 31.75 kg.) with an average pallet size of 48″ x 40″ x 6″. However, the weight will vary depending on pallet size, materials, and location.
Different size pallets weigh differently. Wood, plastic, metal, and Presswood Pallets weigh differently as well. The weights of North American and European pallets are different due to shape differences. Here you learn how much does a pallet weighs? Know Before You Ship!
The pallet weight varies a lot with the size. A small pallet weighs less than a large pallet. Here is the chart for pallet weight by size.
| Size (inches) | Pallet Weight (lbs) | Load Capacity (lbs) |
| 24″ x 24″ | 14 | 1,000 |
| 30″ x 30″ | 22 | 1,200 |
| 36″ x 36″ | 32 | 2200-3500 |
| 40″ x 40″ | 28 | 2,500 |
| 40″ x 48″ | 40 | 4600 |
| 42″ x 31″ | 31 | 6,585 |
| 42″ x 42″ | 35 | 3700 |
| 47″ x 32″ | 32 | 5000 |
| 48″ x 36″ | 35 | 3500-5000 |
| 48″ x 40″ | 35-40 | 2,500 – 4,600 |
| 48″ x 42″ | 42 | 2000-5000 |
| 48″ x 45″ | 44 | Small loads |
| 48″ x 48″ | 40 | 3,700 – 4,600 |
Most of the pallets are wood-made. Their weight range is between 30 – 70 lbs (13 – 32 kg). However, the weight will vary depending on the size, wood type, and structure. These pallets come in two types – Hardwood and softwood.
Hardwood pallets are made from Oak, Maple, and Hickory wood. They are stronger, denser, and ideal for heavy loads. Due to that, they weigh more than softwood. The average weight of hardwood pallets is 40–70 lbs (18–32 kg) with a 3,000 – 4,500 lbs load capacity.
Softwood pallets are made of pine, cedar, Spruce, and Fir and weigh between 30 and 50 lbs (13–23 kg) with a 2,000 – 3,000 lbs weight capacity. They are lighter and more affordable, suitable for general purposes.
Plastic pallets are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene. Due to that, they are lightweight, durable, and resistant to moisture and chemicals. The average weight of plastic pallets is 15–50 lbs (7–23 kg). However, the weight varies with design. For example, nestable designs are lighter with 15–25 lbs weight whereas reinforced/heavy-duty pallets can go up to 50 lbs.
Metal pallets are constructed from aluminum, steel, and other metals. These are highly durable and used for heavy-duty or specialized applications such as automotive or chemical industries. Due to their construction and materials, they are heavy with a weight range of 100–200 lbs (45–90 kg). Steel pallets are heavier with 150–200 lbs, than aluminum, with 100–130 lbs weight. The weight also varies with solid vs. open-grid designs.
Presswood pallets are made from compressed wood fibers and resin. These pallets are eco-friendly and lightweight, making them a great alternative to traditional wooden pallets. People use these for export (ISPM 15 compliant). The average weight of a presswood pallet is 10–25 lbs (4.5–11 kg). However, it varies with compressed density and size. Higher density results in heavier weight.Pallet Weight by zone
The type of materials used to make pallets determines the pallet weight. Plastic pallets are the lightest and metal pallets are the heaviest. There is variation in wooden pallets since softwood pallets weigh less than hardwood pallets.
The structure and design play a vital role in determining the pallet weight. Single-face/one-deck pallets are lighter than double-face/two-deck pallets. Besides, stringer pallets with longitudinal supports use less material, leading to lighter weights of 30-40 lbs. On the other hand, block pallets with corner supports are heavier, with a 40-60 lbs weight. Open decks reduce weight whereas solid decks increase the weight. Nestable designs weigh less (15–25 lbs) than stackable reinforced designs (up to 50 lbs).
The current physical state of the pallets influences the weight. For example, a new pallet is heavier than a used pallet due to intact materials. Dry pallets are lighter than wet pallets due to moisture content. A broken or damaged pallet is lighter as well.
The inherent material density also impacts the pallet weight per unit volume. Hardwoods are denser and heavier than softwoods, leading to more weight in pallets. Plastic is lighter than reinforced composites. Steel is denser than aluminum. The denser the material, the heavier the pallets.
The amount of moisture absorbed by pallets adds weight. That’s why dry wood with 10-12% moisture is lighter than wet wood with 20-50% moisture. Plastic pallets are lighter since they do not absorb any moisture.
Industry or regional standards also determine material use and construction, impacting the weight. For example, GMA Standard (USA) with a 48×40-inch size weighs 35–50 lbs for grocery use, whereas ISO Standards European pallets with 1200 x 800 mm size weigh 40–60 lbs. Customized specifications for specific industries also increase or decrease pallet weight.
Finally, the geographic and environmental factors influence pallet weight. North America favors softwood (lighter), whereas Europe often uses hardwood (heavier). Humid conditions increase moisture content, leading to heavier pallets.
You need to pay freight costs based on weight. Carriers charge costs based on the combined weight of pallets and materials. Pallet weight also impacts air freight. Even though it impacts the fuel efficiency in long-haul trucking or air transport. There are some restrictions in different shipping modes. It even affects warehouse optimization.
Why does the weight of a wood pallet change over time?
Pallet weight changes over time due to moisture absorption, damage, and broken pieces.
How big is a standard pallet
A standard pallet dimension can go up to 48″x40” in size.
Can I use presswood pallets for international shipping?
Yes, you can use Presswood pallets for shipping. However, these have to be ISPM 15 compliant.
Are hardwood pallets worth the extra weight for general use?
We do not recommend using hardwood pallets for general uses. These pallets are suitable for heavy loads.
48×40 is the most common size for pallets in North America. It is also referred to as GMA (Grocery Manufacturers
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