Direct Supply, Inc. offers a wide selection of EURO pallets and block pallets in a variety of sizes. In the shipping world, how do these two types of pallet differ?
WHAT EXACTLY ARE WE TALKING ABOUT?
EURO Pallets and EPAL Pallets
EURO pallets, also called EPAL-pallets and EUR-pallets, meet the specifications of the European Pallet Association (EPAL). This designation lands pallets in the European Pallet Pool (EPP) which allows for exchange, replacement or repair. Derivatives of the EPAL pallet meet specific needs such as retail use or matching the standard American pallet dimensions.
EUR-1 Pallet
Measuring approximately 31 inches by 47.25 inches, the basic EUR-pallet offers convenient four-way entry. 78 nails in a specific pattern secure the wood. In addition, the type of wood used must meet EPAL standards for strength, durability and mold prevention.
EURO pallet specifications. Image by WhiteTimberwolf Pil56: GIF version: CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Due to its narrow width, EPAL-pallets allow for access through standard doors. Unfortunately, EUR-pallets fail to fit into traditional ISO containers. Derivative storage, also known as pallet-wide containers, can accommodate the dimensions of the EURO-pallet.
EUR-2 and EUR-3 Pallets
Two other popular EURO pallet sizes are closer to the standard American pallet size of 40 inches by 48 inches:
- EPAL-2 Industrial Pallet: 1200 x 1000mm
- EPAL-3 Industrial Pallet: 1000 x 1200mm
For more information on the various sizes of EPAL pallets, visit the European Pallet Association’s website.
Block Pallets
In contrast to EURO pallets, block pallets fall under less stringent guidelines. The wood type, nail choice and nail pattern can vary with this style of pallet. Therefore, no standard of quality can be assumed.
Standard block pallets measure 39 inches by 47 inches and permit four-way entry in terms of handling. The layout of the lumber in both parallel and perpendicular directions adds strength. The bottom deck board offers uni-directional, perimeter or overlapping base options.
EURO or Block Pallets?
In determining the best pallet, each given application must be considered in light of the following:
1. Weight of the load
The construction and specifications of the pallet must adequately support your product. EURO pallets tend to use a slightly thicker boards. This increases strength over traditional block pallets.
For further examples, a board thickness of 16 millimeters bears 700 kilograms while 20 millimeters supports 1500 kilograms. Matching product weight against board strength helps determine the right pallet. Plus, choosing the correct board strength delivers product and worker safety.
2. Transport specifications
The dimensions of a given pallet must fit the mode of transport as well as storage at a customer’s site. For example, as mentioned, EUR-pallets do not typically fit standard ISO containers. A pallet arriving on site will be returned if storage proves an impossibility.
Traditionally, European pallets run slightly smaller than block pallets. For example, 18 EURO pallets versus 14 block pallets fit national transport standards, while 33 EURO pallets or 26 block pallets make an international transport load.
Stringent specifications ensure the quality of EURO pallets marked by the EPAL and EUR logos along with a verifier’s signature. However, generally speaking, these two types of pallets prove quite similar.
We have block and EURO pallets for sale!
Contact Direct Supply, Inc. to determine the pallet that best fits your needs.
