How Much Does a Pallet Weigh?
An empty standard wooden pallet weighs about 30–48 lb (14–22 kg). Euro pallets are heavier at ~55 lb (25 kg), and plastic pallets run 7–40 lb. A loaded pallet usually weighs 1,500–2,500 lb total. Here's the full breakdown.
Empty pallet weight by type
| Pallet type | lb | kg | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood GMA (48 × 40 in) | 30–48 lb | 14–22 kg | The standard North American pallet |
| Euro / EPAL (1200 × 800) | 44–55 lb | 20–25 kg | Heavier hardwood block pallet |
| Plastic (nestable) | 7–15 lb | 3–7 kg | Light, one-way / export |
| Plastic (rackable) | 30–40 lb | 14–18 kg | Reusable, heavy-duty |
| Presswood / moulded | 30–40 lb | 14–18 kg | Lightweight, nestable, export |
| Block pallet (heavy duty) | 45–70 lb | 20–32 kg | Four-way, high capacity |
Wood pallet weight varies with species and moisture — a damp hardwood pallet can weigh significantly more than a dry one.
Loaded pallet weight & capacity
For shipping, what matters is total weight — cargo plus the pallet. A standard GMA pallet is rated to roughly 2,800 lb dynamic (while being moved) and several times that static (sitting still). In practice, LTL carriers prefer individual pallets under about 2,200–2,500 lb, and a typical loaded pallet runs 1,500–2,500 lb. Spread weight evenly and keep the load stable and within the footprint.
Pallet weight and your freight cost
Total weight divided by volume is your shipment's density, and density sets your freight class — a major LTL rate factor. Always include the pallet's own weight. Knowing the pallet's size helps too: see standard pallet sizes.
Get your class in seconds
Enter dimensions and total weight (including the pallet).
Open the Freight Class CalculatorFrequently asked questions
How much does an empty pallet weigh?
A standard empty wooden GMA pallet (48 × 40 in) weighs about 30–48 lb (14–22 kg). Euro EPAL pallets are heavier at roughly 55 lb (25 kg), while plastic pallets range from 7 to 40 lb depending on type.
How much does a loaded pallet weigh?
A loaded pallet typically weighs 1,500–2,500 lb total for LTL freight. Standard GMA pallets are rated to around 2,800 lb in motion (dynamic load) and far more static, but most carriers cap individual pallets near 2,200–2,500 lb.
How much does a wooden pallet weigh in kg?
A standard wooden GMA pallet weighs roughly 14–22 kg empty. A Euro EPAL pallet is about 25 kg.
Why does pallet weight matter for shipping?
Total weight (cargo + pallet) sets your shipment's density, which determines its freight class and therefore its LTL rate. Include the pallet's own weight when you calculate density.