This article systematically summarizes the compliance standards and data calculation methods for pallet packaging in European road transportation, helping readers achieve compliant packaging and ensure safe transportation.
Pallet packaging is one of the core packaging requirements for European road transport. Whether it is Groupage, Less-than-Truckload (LTL) or Full-Truckload (FTL), the vast majority of goods must be loaded, unloaded and transported in palletized form.
Proper palletizing not only significantly improves transport stability, but also serves as the key to avoiding cargo rejection, denial of damage claims and delivery delays.
I. Pallet Size and Quality Requirements
The most common type is the European standard pallet (EUR/EPAL) with dimensions of 120×80cm. Disposable pallets of other sizes are also acceptable, but all pallets are subject to size restrictions—exceeding these limits will result in cargo rejection by the carrier.
Most carriers restrict pallet length to no more than 2.4 meters, while a few accept a maximum length of 3 meters. Please refer to the specific product instructions for details.
Pallets must be intact, sturdy and free from damage. Wet, cracked or corner-damaged pallets are prohibited. They must also be compatible with forklift front or side forks; otherwise, additional fees will be incurred and the cargo will be rejected.
The recommended weight per pallet is no more than 500–1000kg. For heavy cargo (≥500kg), reinforced pallets or wooden crate bases must be used, and the number of strapping bands should be increased (at least 4) to ensure the pallet feet are structurally sound. Wooden frames or metal fasteners may be used for reinforcement if necessary. Heavy cargo has high inertia, and insufficient reinforcement can easily lead to tipping or damage during transportation.
II. Cargo Stacking Requirements
Goods must be completely placed on the top surface of the pallet, with no overhang beyond the edges (i.e., the pallet dimensions must be greater than or equal to the base area of the goods). The recommended stacking height of pallets is no more than 180–220cm, depending on the carrier's requirements.
Pallets with cargo overhangs beyond the surface edges may cause the following problems: mutual extrusion during loading, damage from forklift operation collisions, rejection by transshipment warehouses due to inability to stack, and cargo falling due to braking impact during transportation.
III. Packaging Fixation Specifications
Stretch film fixation: Wrap 3–5 circles starting from the bottom of the pallet, then wrap layer by layer upward to the top and seal to ensure overall tightness. For fragile goods, additional protective film or cardboard can be used. Key point: Wrapping must be done "from bottom to top" to form an integrated supporting structure.
Strapping reinforcement: Use 2–4 strapping bands according to the cargo weight; vertical strapping bands can be added to enhance stability. Using corner posts (corner protectors) together can prevent cargo deformation during strapping.
Center of gravity fixation: Place heavy goods at the bottom and light goods on top; avoid overhead or protruding items on the top. The goods should remain stable without shaking. If necessary, use corner posts, corner protectors or pressure plates to strengthen the structure.
Acceptance criteria: Goods should not sway or slide when lifted by a forklift.
IV. Pallet Labeling Requirements
Labels should be affixed to the front and both sides of the pallet, with at least 2 copies, and the information must be consistent with the order.
In addition, it is recommended to attach the following labels according to the cargo attributes:
Fragile
Do Not Stack
This Side Up
Heavy (Heavy Cargo Warning)
V. Cargo Data Calculation Method
The length and width of a single piece of cargo shall be based on the pallet dimensions (overhanging is prohibited), and the weight shall be the sum of the gross weight of the goods and the self-weight of the pallet.
One-sentence summary: Pallets must be strong and durable, goods must be firmly fixed, and the whole must be able to withstand the tests of stacking and forklift loading/unloading.