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GMA pallet reference

The 48×40 grocery pallet footprint and common cousins — so trailer and warehouse math starts from the right rectangle.

Standard pallet specs

TypeDimensionsNotes
GMA / grocery48″ × 40″North American standard stringer pallet; most common grocery/CPG footprint.
ISO1 (EUR not)48″ × 40″Same footprint class as GMA in US trade usage.
Half pallet48″ × 20″Half of GMA width; retail displays / club packs.
Quarter pallet24″ × 20″Display / endcap units.
Euro EPAL1200 × 800 mm (≈47.2″ × 31.5″)European standard — does not match GMA; watch mixed loads.
Oversize / industrial48×48, 42×42, etc.Non-GMA; confirm trailer math separately.

53′ floor rule of thumb (48×40)

26–30 pallets
Typical single-floor straight load in a 53′ dry van is often quoted around 26 (tight nose/tail) to 30 with clean geometry (e.g. 15 deep × 2 across when length allows). Use the trailer pallet calculator for exact inputs.

Stringer vs block (quick)

StyleWhat it means
StringerParallel stringers run the length; forklift entry often 2-way (or partial 4-way with notches).
BlockBlocks under deck boards; true 4-way entry more common; heavier/stronger designs frequent in pooling.

Source

Industry-standard GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) pallet footprint 48″×40″ as used across North American warehousing, plus common EPAL/Euro dimensions (1200×800 mm). Load ratings vary by construction grade and condition — confirm with the pallet provider.

Reference tool only — not legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. Verify against the linked primary source before you rely on a result.

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