GMA Pallet Dimensions and Specifications: 48 × 40 Inches

Quick Overview

The common North American GMA pallet footprint is 48 × 40 inches, equivalent to 1,219.2 × 1,016 mm. The footprint alone does not establish the pallet’s height, empty weight, construction or load capacity. Confirm those details for the pallet supplied.

GMA pallet dimensions at a glance

For a specific manufacturer example, PECO publishes a 48 × 40-inch block pallet with a height of 5.56 inches, approximately 141 mm. That height describes PECO’s listed design, not every GMA pallet. PECO pallet specifications.

Does “GMA pallet” guarantee a particular load capacity?

No. Do not choose a pallet using its footprint alone.

Ask the supplier for the pallet specification and confirm that its rating covers how the loaded pallet will be handled and supported. A figure for a pallet resting on a floor should not automatically be used for a pallet supported in a rack.

For example, PECO specifies a capacity for its particular pallet under stated edge-racking conditions. That is a model-specific rating, not a capacity shared by every 48 × 40-inch pallet. PECO design and load specifications.

Before loading, confirm:

• The weight and distribution of the cargo.
• The pallet’s condition and construction.
• Compatibility with the handling equipment.
• Whether the shipment can be stacked.
• The receiver’s pallet requirements.

Are GMA pallets required for every US shipment?

A 48 × 40-inch pallet is a common format, but it should not be presented as the only pallet size permitted in the United States.

Confirm the footprint, construction, loaded height and condition accepted by the receiving warehouse. A pallet suitable for one customer may not meet another customer’s receiving specification.

Pallet dimensions and wood-treatment requirements are separate checks. Meeting the requested footprint does not establish compliance with phytosanitary requirements.

Use the North American pallet-size comparison guide when considering alternative formats.

Calculate the volume of a loaded GMA pallet

Measure the complete packed unit, including the pallet base, wrapping and any projecting packaging.

Hypothetical example: four loaded pallets each measure 1.2192 × 1.016 × 1.50 m.

The 1.50 m measurement includes the pallet base. If packaging extends beyond the nominal footprint, measure the larger outside dimensions.

Use the CBM calculator to total the shipment volume, and provide the gross weight separately.

How many GMA pallets fit in a 40ft container?

Pallet orientation changes the floor layout. Floor positions and double-stacked pallet counts must be calculated separately.

Illustrative single-level layout: assume exact 48 × 40-inch pallet footprints, no overhang and a container with sufficient internal space.

This calculated footprint fits within the 12.032 × 2.352 m internal floor dimensions of Hapag-Lloyd’s 40ft standard container example.

The example demonstrates a possible geometric arrangement. It is not a guaranteed loading plan: pallet tolerances, packaging, door clearance, access for handling equipment, securing materials and weight can change what is practical.

Twenty floor positions do not establish that forty loaded pallets can be carried by double-stacking. The goods and pallets must support the proposed stack, and the combined height and weight must be acceptable.

See the pallet-loading guide and 40ft container specifications for further checks.

Wood-packaging requirements for US imports

Regulated wood packaging entering the United States must meet applicable ISPM 15 treatment and marking requirements. Arrange compliant packaging before shipment and check that the marks are legible.

APHIS identifies alternatives such as plastic pallets and certain processed-wood materials that are outside its regulated wood-packaging scope. Check the actual materials used, including any separate solid-wood supports or dunnage. USDA APHIS wood-packaging guidance.

Do not assume that kiln drying alone proves ISPM 15 compliance. Obtain confirmation of the required treatment and marking from the supplier.

What information is needed for a pallet-shipping quote?

Provide the pallet count, full packed dimensions, gross weight per pallet, commodity and cargo-ready date. Include origin and destination details, stackability and any special pickup or delivery requirements.

Compare FCL and LCL using the same service scope. The pallet count alone does not determine which option offers the better total price.

Compare ocean freight options or read the FCL vs LCL guide.