What is meant by an euro pallet?

A euro pallet is a standardized wooden pallet with dimensions of 800 mm (width) x 1200 mm (depth). It typically weighs between 20 and 25 kilograms, consists of 11 boards and nine blocks, and costs approximately 10 euros. Euro pallets are standardized under EN 13698-1 and comply with the guidelines of EPAL (European Pallet Association). All models from this organization can be identified by a branded EPAL marking on the side. The central blocks of a Euro pallet contain important information such as company identification, country of origin, production data, quality inspection stamps, repair history, and treatment methods.

Thanks to its construction, a Euro pallet allows easy handling with pallet trucks, forklifts, or similar industrial trucks. It can be accessed from all four sides, minimizing the risk of it getting stuck in tight warehouse aisles. Additional attachments, such as collapsible frames or metal cages, can expand the pallet for special goods and allow pressure-free stacking.

To ensure durability, various production and treatment methods are used. For example, pallets entering the EU from non-EU countries must be heat-treated to eliminate bacteria and pests. This reduces moisture content and prevents mold, decay, and splintering.

The history of the Euro pallet dates back to the 1960s, when railway companies collaborated to make freight transport more efficient. They introduced a pooling system, which allowed access to a shared pallet inventory, under the condition of careful handling and repairs. In the 1970s, the Deutsche Bundesbahn transferred all rights to EPAL, which still oversees Euro pallet manufacturing and repairs today. Other players in pallet pooling include WORLD, CHEP, and LPR. Until 2013, the marking EUR was used; today, EPAL is the recognized standard. The annual market value of Euro pallets produced in Germany alone approaches one billion euros. Due to high demand, used pallets were unavailable at one point, prompting a massive increase in new production.