UK Pallet Sizes & Specifications Guide
UK Pallet Sizes Guide
Choosing the right pallet size affects storage efficiency, load stability, transport planning, and overall pallet cost. For UK businesses buying pallets in bulk, the most important decision is usually whether a standard 1200 x 1000 pallet, a Euro 1200 x 800 pallet, or a more specialist format such as a CP pallet is the best fit for the operation.
This guide explains the main pallet sizes relevant to NA Pallets customers, what each size is commonly used for, and how to decide which format best suits warehousing, distribution, export, and industrial handling.
Standard UK Pallet Size: 1200 x 1000mm
The most common standard pallet size used across UK warehousing and domestic distribution is 1200 x 1000mm. This format is widely used in warehouses, retail supply chains, manufacturing sites, and transport operations because it works well for general storage and day-to-day handling.
- Typical use: UK warehouse racking, storage, and domestic distribution
- Main advantage: common size for general-purpose British supply chain use
- Best for: warehouses, retailers, manufacturers, and wholesalers
If you need this size, browse our standard used wooden pallets.
Euro Pallet Size: 1200 x 800mm
The Euro pallet size is 1200 x 800mm. This format is widely used across European logistics and is often the preferred option for export work, container loading, and businesses that need a pallet better suited to tighter transport footprints. Because Euro pallets are narrower than standard UK pallets, they can be more efficient for some freight and storage layouts.
- Typical use: export, container loading, and European logistics
- Main advantage: efficient footprint for international freight and Euro-standard systems
- Best for: exporters, manufacturers, freight operators, and cross-border supply chains
See our Euro used wooden pallets for available stock.
CP Pallet Sizes
CP pallets are chemical-industry pallet formats used in industrial and manufacturing supply chains. They come in multiple standardised sizes, each designed for different load profiles, sectors, and handling requirements. The sizes most relevant to NA Pallets stock include:
- CP1: 1200 x 1000mm
- CP7: 1300 x 1100mm
- CP9: 1140 x 1140mm
CP pallets are commonly used for drums, bagged materials, industrial packaging, and repeat commercial handling where a recognised pallet format matters. Browse the CP used wooden pallets collection for current options.
Plastic Pallet Sizes
Plastic pallets are available in several sizes, but many businesses still choose formats close to standard 1200 x 1000 or Euro 1200 x 800 dimensions. The right size depends on your hygiene requirements, transport system, and whether the pallets are being used for internal repeat handling, export, or washdown environments.
If the main priority is hygiene, moisture resistance, or long-term repeat use, plastic pallets may be a better fit than timber stock. See our plastic pallets range.
Pallet Collars and Compatibility
Pallet collars are not a pallet size themselves, but they depend on the pallet size underneath them. Most pallet collars are matched to either 1200 x 1000 standard pallets or 1200 x 800 Euro pallets. If you need stackable storage boxes or export packing support, the pallet size and the collar size must match correctly.
See our pallet collars range for compatible options.
How to Choose the Right Pallet Size
The best pallet size depends on where and how the pallet will be used. In practice, most buyers choose based on one of four priorities: storage compatibility, transport efficiency, load type, or industry-specific pallet standards.
- Choose 1200 x 1000 if you need a standard UK pallet for general warehousing and distribution
- Choose 1200 x 800 if you need a Euro pallet for export or tighter freight planning
- Choose CP formats if your operation needs industrial or chemical-standard pallet types
- Choose plastic pallets if hygiene, moisture resistance, or repeat-use durability matters most
Common Questions About Pallet Sizes
What is the standard pallet size in the UK?
The standard pallet size commonly used in the UK is 1200 x 1000mm.
What size is a Euro pallet?
A Euro pallet is 1200 x 800mm.
Are CP pallets the same size as standard pallets?
No. Some CP pallets share similar dimensions with standard pallets, but the CP system includes several different sizes such as CP1, CP7, and CP9.
Which pallet size is best for export?
For many export operations, 1200 x 800 Euro pallets are a strong choice because they suit European logistics and container loading well. Some industrial export flows may also use CP pallet formats depending on the load and sector.
Need Help Choosing?
If you are not sure which pallet size is right for your operation, contact NA Pallets with the product type, load size, quantity, and delivery postcode. We can help point you toward the most suitable pallet format from our current stock.
Call 07435 126502 or email info@napallets.co.uk to request a quote.