Standard, Euro or Oversize: Choosing the Right Pallet for Melbourne Freight

The wrong pallet footprint can waste space or fail to suit the receiving rack. Here’s a no-jargon guide to what to measure and confirm before booking.

Standard Australian pallet (1165 × 1165mm)

This square footprint is common in Australian warehousing and pallet pools. Confirm the pallet type, load dimensions and rated capacity with the sender or pallet provider before requesting transport; the right vehicle and handling plan depend on the complete consignment.

• Best for: domestic distribution, retail DC deliveries, CHEP/Loscam pool exchanges.
• Watch out for: European-built racking or access designed for a different footprint.

Euro pallet / EPAL (1200 × 800mm)

The European standard has a narrower rectangular footprint and an EPAL specification. It is common on imported goods and automotive parts. Check the pallet markings, condition, load dimensions and rated capacity before booking.

• Best for: imported freight already palletised in Europe, narrow-aisle warehouses, anywhere weight matters.
• Watch out for: Australian racking or loading equipment designed for a square pallet footprint.

Oversize / out-of-gauge

Freight outside the standard pallet footprint, or with unusual height, length, weight or handling needs, should be treated as oversize or out-of-gauge until dispatch assesses it. Hypothetical examples: industrial machinery, glass crates, long timber, building panels or gym equipment may require a different vehicle, permits or site equipment.

• Best for: one-off industrial moves, trade fit-outs, plant relocations.
• Watch out for: permits, escort requirements and access limits that depend on the exact dimensions, route and site.

Five rules that reduce avoidable problems

1. Measure, don’t guess. Record length, width and height, including the pallet itself. An incorrect measurement can affect the quote or handling plan.
2. Secure the load. Follow the pallet, packaging and carrier requirements so the load is less likely to shift or be damaged in transit.
3. Label the top. Forklift drivers don’t want to walk around your pallet to find the consignment note.
4. Separate incompatible freight. Glass under heavy items can increase damage risk. Ask dispatch how fragile and heavy freight should be packaged or separated.
5. Tell us about access. Site has no forklift? Tight residential street? Tail-lift required? Provide those details up front so dispatch can assess the vehicle and handling requirements. A change in the details may change the quote or available service.

Not sure what you’ve got?

Drop-X assesses palletised commercial freight across metro Melbourne and regional Victoria. See the next-day regional service, same-day metro service, freight guide and coverage map for service information. Current rates are on the pricing page; any handling or account terms are confirmed for the booking.

Send a photo and dimensions to info@drop-x.com.au or call 1300 973 038. Dispatch can assess the vehicle, access and handling requirements from the information supplied.