How many pallets fit in a container: 20ft & 40ft [+find containers at best prices]

Pallets provide a stable platform for transporting cargo. This blog explains how many pallets fit in a container and offers 5 tips for packing pallets efficiently.  

Pallets play a key role in efficiently loading cargo into shipping containers. Whether you’re using Euro or American pallets, the right container can maximize space and minimize your shipping costs.

While it’s easy to get your hands on standard containers through your local sourcing channel, there’s no guarantee you’re paying the right price for them. And let’s not forget the container scams and the commission brokers charge for finding you a deal. 

Using Container xChange trading marketplace, you can avoid all this and keep your container procurement costs to a minimum. 

Browse, compare, and choose container offers directly from sellers. We have 100,000+ containers available in 2,500+ locations globally. Find great container deals at 0% commission using the public search below!

How many pallets fit in a container?

The number of pallets that fit into a shipping container largely depends on the container type and size. Different containers, such as 20-foot or 40-foot containers, have varying capacities, and the kind of pallet also affects the number of pallets that can be loaded. 

Pallets play a crucial role in logistics by providing a stable platform for stacking and transporting goods, making container loading, unloading, and storage more efficient. They also protect cargo from damage and simplify cargo handling with equipment like forklifts and pallet jacks. Let’s understand this in detail below.

What are the different types of pallets? 

Pallets come in several standard sizes, each designed for specific regions and industries. The most common pallet types include Euro pallets, American pallets, and Australian pallets.

Euro Pallet Size

The Euro pallet, or EUR-pallet, measures 47.2 inches x 31.5 inches (1,200 mm x 800 mm). It’s widely used across Europe, particularly for transporting goods within the European Union. A euro-pallet weighs around 55 lbs and withstands up to 1.5 tonnes of load.

American Pallet Size

The American pallet, often called the GMA or standard pallet, is slightly larger than the Euro pallet, measuring 48 inches x 40 inches (1,219 mm x 1,016 mm). The pallet can typically carry up to 4,600 lbs of weight and weighs 37 lbs apiece.
This pallet is commonly used in America and Canada and is standard in retail, food, and beverage industries. 

Australian Pallet Size

The Australian pallet measures 45.9 inches x 45.9 inches (1,165 mm x 1,165 mm) This pallet is unique to Australia and thus is not commonly used in other countries. 

Now let’s look at how many Euro and American pallets fit into standard shipping containers, as these are the most commonly used pallet sizes worldwide.

How many pallets fit in a 20’ container? 

A standard 20-foot container can fit around 11 Euro pallets or 9-10 American pallets. The compact size of this container makes it ideal for smaller shipments and space-conscious logistics.

If you’re looking for great offers on 20ft containers for your business, explore them on our online marketplace below.

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How many pallets fit in a 40’ container?

A 40-foot container offers more space, fitting up to 23-24 Euro pallets or 20-21 American pallets. This size is commonly used for larger shipments, offering ample room for bulk goods.

Need a 40ft container for your shipments? Choose from 100,000+ containers at wholesale prices below.

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How many pallets fit in a 45’ container?

A 45-foot container can accommodate around 27 Euro pallets or 24 American pallets, making it the largest standard container option. It’s typically used for shipping high-volume cargo and offers extended length for extra pallet space.

Looking for wholesale prices for a 45-foot container? Find the best offers on the xChange marketplace.

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If you want to optimize pallet arrangement further, opt for pallet-wide containers. These special containers are designed to maximize space and accommodate more pallets than standard containers. Read on to know more. 

How many pallets fit in a pallet-wide container?

Pallet-wide containers are specially designed to maximize the number of pallets that can be loaded, eliminating wasted space between pallets and the container walls. Here’s how many pallets you can fit in different pallet-wide containers:

20-foot pallet-wide container:

• 15 Euro pallets 
• 12 American pallets 

40-foot pallet-wide container:

• 30 Euro pallets
• 24 American pallets

Check out our detailed blog on pallet-wide containers to learn more about them and how you can buy them at the best prices. 

5 tips for packing pallets for optimal container shipping

Packing your pallets efficiently is crucial for the safe arrival of goods and maximizing container space. Follow these 5 tips to ensure the best pallet arrangement.

1. Know your pallet dimensions:
Before calculating how many pallets can fit in a container, it’s essential to know the dimensions of the pallets you plan to ship. American and Euro pallets have different sizes.

Euro pallets are smaller (47.2 inches x 31.5 inches), while American pallets are slightly larger (48 inches x 40 inches), affecting how they fit into containers. Refer to the dimensions discussed earlier in the blog to ensure accuracy.

2. Determine available space

Check the internal dimensions of the container to figure out the available space. This will help you decide how many pallets can be efficiently loaded. Read our detailed blog on container dimensions and sizes to know the volume of each container type.

3. Consider the space between pallets:
Leave a small gap between pallets to facilitate easy loading and unloading. Make sure that no part of the cargo or boxes extends beyond the edges of the pallet, as this can interfere with proper pallet arrangement.

4. Stack your cargo properly:
Improperly stacked goods on a pallet can lead to damage when the pallets are handled or tightly packed together. Ensure your cargo is evenly distributed and stacked to avoid issues during transport.

5. Secure shipment with cling wrap or plastic straps:
Using cling wrap or plastic straps can prevent your goods from shifting or getting damaged during transportation. 

By following these packing tips, you’ll not only protect your goods but also make the most of the container space. Now that you’re prepared to pack efficiently, let’s explore how you can find the best container deals for shipping your pallets.

Find containers at the best prices for shipping pallets 

When it comes to shipping pallets efficiently, finding the right container at the best price is key. Here’s how you can use the xChange marketplace to find containers at wholesale prices.

Step 1: Define your requirements

First of all, you’ll need to define your container requirements. You can choose between standard containers, or if you’re looking for more space for pallets, select pallet-wide containers on our platform.

Step 2: Browse 100,000+ containers

Once you select the requirements and your desired location, you’ll get multiple offers to choose from. Browse through these deals to select the best offer. 

Step 3: Negotiate a deal

As soon as a good offer catches your eye, reach out to the supplier directly to negotiate the price, terms, and conditions. You read that right—on xChange there are no middlemen—just you and the partner finalizing the deal together.

Step 4: Make safe payments

Once you finalize the deal, pay for your containers directly on the platform using the xChange Wallet. Here, manage your finances in one place and make secure payments. 

Here’s what Andres Valencia, CEO of E-Containers, has to say about using the xChange marketplace:

“Container xChange holds immense growth potential. It’s a game changer for safely facilitating transactions within minutes.” 

xChange makes it easy for you to buy shipping containers for your business. Click on the banner below to find your ideal container at competitive prices. Choose from 100,000+ containers today! 

How many pallets fit in a container: Common FAQs

How many pallets fit in a 53ft container?

A 53-foot shipping container can typically fit 33 Euro pallets and 30 American pallets.

How many pallets fit in a 40ft high cube container?

A 40-foot-high cube container is one foot taller than a standard 40ft container, allowing for more vertical space. It can fit up to 25 Euro pallets and approximately 21 American pallets.

How many pallets fit in a 20ft container?

A standard 20-foot container has enough floor space to hold up to 11 Euro pallets and around 10 American pallets. Shippers stack pallets to hold the maximum number of pallets.