Packaging sizes: pallets, modules and boxes
In European logistics, almost everything revolves around the Euro pallet at 1200 × 800 mm. Boxes, crates and displays are sized to fit on it without gaps. The basis is the 600 × 400 mm module, a quarter of the pallet.
Contents of this page
What paper sizes and packaging have in common
At first glance, A4 and the Euro pallet have little to do with each other. In practice they meet all the time: copy paper is packed five reams to a box, catalogues and brochures leave the printer by the pallet, and online retailers look for boxes that fit an A4 ring binder exactly. If you know the pallet dimensions, you can plan packaging that wastes no space in transport.
All pages on packaging
- Euro palletEPAL Euro pallet dimensions, weight, load capacity and how many fit in a lorry, plus industrial, half and quarter pallets compared.
- 600 × 400 moduleHow the ISO 3394 module links boxes and pallets, which sub-modules exist and how to plan boxes for A4 and A3 products.
- FEFCO codesWhat the FEFCO code system is, the common box styles with their numbers and uses, and how to use them when ordering boxes.
The key dimensions at a glance
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Euro pallet (EPAL) | 1200 × 800 × 144 mm |
| Industrial pallet, UK standard pallet | 1200 × 1000 mm |
| North American pallet (GMA) | 48 × 40 in (1219 × 1016 mm) |
| Half pallet | 800 × 600 mm |
| Quarter pallet | 600 × 400 mm |
| Base module under ISO 3394 | 600 × 400 mm |
| Euro pallets per articulated trailer (13.6 m) | 33 |
| Royal Mail Large Letter | up to 353 × 250 × 25 mm |
Frequently asked questions
How big is a Euro pallet?
1200 × 800 mm, and 144 mm high.
What is the 600 × 400 module?
The base size for packaging under ISO 3394. Four modules fill a Euro pallet without gaps.
How many Euro pallets fit in a lorry?
33 fit in an articulated trailer with a loading length of 13.6 m.