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Pallet guide · load capacity

Pallet Load Capacity Chart

How much weight a pallet can hold depends on its type, its condition and how the load is placed and supported. This chart gives the published EPAL figures and explains what they mean in practice.
Request a quotePallet dimensions
  • Safe working load
  • Stacking load
  • Racking tips
Loaded pallets in a warehouse
Euro pallet (EPAL 1)
Safe working load
1,500 kg
Max. stacking load
5,500 kg
Pallet weight
about 25 kg
Size
1200 × 800 mm

Quick answer: A euro pallet (EPAL 1) has a safe working load of 1,500 kg when the load is spread evenly. Stacked on a flat, even floor, the bottom pallet can carry up to 5,500 kg. Industrial pallets are rated at 1,250 kg (EPAL 2) or 1,500 kg (EPAL 3), and the EPAL 6 half pallet at 750 kg.

Load capacity by pallet type

Published EPAL figures for loads spread evenly over the whole deck.
PalletSize (mm)Safe working loadMax. stacking load (bottom pallet)
EPAL 1 euro pallet1200 × 800 × 1441,500 kg5,500 kg
EPAL 2 industrial pallet1200 × 1000 × 1621,250 kg4,250 kg
EPAL 3 industrial pallet1000 × 1200 × 1441,500 kg4,500 kg
EPAL 6 half pallet800 × 600 × 144750 kg1,500 kg
EPAL 7 display pallet800 × 600 × 163500 kg–

Source: EPAL product data. EPAL does not publish a general racking figure: the safe load in racking depends on the rack, beam spacing and pallet orientation. Non-EPAL and custom pallets are rated to their own build.

The three load types explained

Safe working load (dynamic)

The load a pallet can carry while it is moved by forklift or pallet truck. This is the figure most buyers mean by "load capacity". For the euro pallet it is 1,500 kg with an evenly spread load.

Stacking load (static)

The load the bottom pallet can carry when loaded pallets are stacked on top of each other on a flat, even floor. The floor supports the whole bottom deck, so the figure is much higher: up to 5,500 kg for the euro pallet.

Racking load

The load a pallet can carry when it rests on two beams with nothing underneath. This is the most demanding case. It depends on the pallet, the direction it is placed in and the rack design, so check it with your racking supplier.

What reduces a pallet's capacity

  • Point loads: a heavy item on a small area instead of spread over the deck.
  • Uneven loads: weight concentrated on one side or overhanging the edges.
  • Damage: cracked boards, loose nails or missing blocks. Used pallets may carry less than new ones.
  • Moisture: wet wood is weaker and heavier.
  • Wrong support: racking a pallet across the wrong direction or on beams that are too far apart.

For heavy or concentrated loads, a reinforced custom pallet is often the safer choice.

Load capacity questions

How much weight can a euro pallet hold?
EPAL rates the euro pallet at 1,500 kg safe working load. Stacked on a flat floor, the bottom pallet can carry up to 5,500 kg.
How much weight can an industrial pallet hold?
The EPAL 2 industrial pallet (1200 × 1000 mm) is rated at 1,250 kg and the EPAL 3 at 1,500 kg safe working load.
Can a pallet hold 2,000 kg?
Not a standard euro pallet in handling. For loads above the standard ratings, use a reinforced custom pallet designed for the weight.
Do used pallets carry the same weight as new ones?
Only if they are in good condition. Damaged or repaired pallets may carry less, so inspect used pallets before heavy use.

Need pallets for heavy loads?

Tell us the weight and dimensions of your load. We will recommend a standard or reinforced pallet. Minimum order 100 pallets.

Request a quoteCustom pallets