Static and dynamic
| Measure | Meaning | Figure for a standard 48 x 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic load | Moving, on forks or a jack | 2,000 to 2,800 lb (900 to 1,270 kg) |
| Static load | Standing on the floor | 2,500 to 4,600 lb (1,100 to 2,100 kg) |
| Racked load | Supported on beams only at the ends | Lower; ask a racking engineer |
PHS gives a static capacity of three short tons and a dynamic capacity of one short ton, and many pallets are rated to handle 1,000 kg. The published figures differ, so quote a range and never rely on them for a safety decision.
What lowers it
- A cracked stringer.
- Missing or split deck boards.
- Wet wood, which softens.
- Point loads, such as a drum or a steel coil on one board.
- Racking, where the pallet spans a gap between beams.
Grade and capacity
A sound Grade B repaired well can carry what a Grade A does. A pallet with a cracked stringer cannot, whatever its grade is called. Weigh the load, check the stringers, and if you are over the limit, look at custom or block stock.
Can I stack loaded pallets?
That depends on the static rating, the stack height and the goods. Check with your racking or warehouse safety lead.
Is a heat-treated pallet stronger?
No. Heat treatment changes pests, not strength.
Put your load weight in the request; the stack finder uses weight in its answer. Send it through the quote form.
Can I stack loaded pallets on each other?
It depends on the static rating, the stack height and the goods. Ask your warehouse safety lead.
What if my load is heavier than the range?
Ask for a block, reinforced or custom pallet and state the weight in your request.
Do repairs change capacity?
A well-made repair restores strength; a loose plug or cracked stringer does not.
Published ratings side by side
| Pallet | Rating or weight |
|---|---|
| 48 x 40 x 6 in wood, static | 3 short tons |
| 48 x 40 x 6 in wood, dynamic | 1 short ton |
| 48 x 40 x 6 in wood, empty | 33 to 48 lb (15 to 22 kg) |
| GMA pallet, typical weight | 37 lb (17 kg) |
| EUR 1, load limit | 2,490 kg |
| EUR 2, load limit | 1,470 kg |
| EUR 3, load limit | 1,920 kg |
| Lightweight plastic pallet | 3 to 15 lb |
| Heavy plastic pallet | Up to 300 lb (140 kg) |
| Heavy-duty IPPC pallet | About 135 lb (61 kg) |
One source gives a GMA pallet a holding figure of 460 pounds (210 kg), far below the 3 short-ton static rating beside it, and does not explain the gap. That gap is why a rating belongs in a range and a load limit belongs with a racking engineer, who can read the weight, the span and the beam together.