Optimising pallet types for safe and efficient transport

Ensuring the safe and efficient transport of alcoholic beverages requires careful consideration of pallet types, loading configurations and container capacity. Selecting the right pallet type not only helps prevent breakages but also maximises the payload of a container while adhering to road weight restrictions. Understanding the best approach for palletising shipments is crucial for both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) services. It’s also important to understand that regulations can differ between countries and even states, so checking local rules is key to a successfully delivered shipment.

Pallet types explained - sizes and loading configurations

The number of pallets that can be loaded in a container depends on several factors, including pallet size, loading configuration and the available floor space in the shipping container. Different pallet configurations and container types can also influence how many pallets fit into a container. Additionally, road weight limits play a significant role in determining the total allowable weight that can actually travel.

It’s also important to note that wine packaging formats vary globally, which impacts logistics planning. Differences in case sizes and bottle formats affect how shipments are stacked, optimised and transported, making it essential to tailor loading configurations to regional standards. In the EU, wine is typically packed in 6-bottle cases of 750ml bottles, whereas in the US, the standard is often 12-bottle cases. This impacts how cases are stacked and loaded onto pallets. Let’s have a closer look at different pallet types and their capacity.

Euro pallets

A standard Euro pallet measures 120 x 80 cm (31.5 x 47.24 in) and has an empty weight of 25 kg (55 lbs). The following table provides a guideline for the number of Euro pallets that can be loaded into different container types:

VMF block pallets

One pallet type you may consider is a VMF pallet. It was originally created in France specifically for glass bottle transport. A pallet of this type measures 120 x 100 cm (39.37 x 47.24 in) and has an empty weight of 28 to 30 kg (62-66 lbs), depending on wood type and size. The capacity per container is slightly lower due to its larger footprint:

GMA pallets

GMA pallets were designed by the Grocery Manufacturers Association for the food industry. Each pallet is 48 x 40 in in size, and has an empty weight of ≥16 kg (≥35 lbs), but this varies by wood size and type. They are mainly used in North America.

10 pallets in a 20 foot dry container

9 pallets in a 20 foot reefer container

21 pallets in a 40 foot dry container

20 pallets in a 40 foot reefer container

Pallet height considerations to be aware of

The height of a loaded pallet should generally not exceed 1.7 metres. This limit is set due to health and safety regulations and is widely considered best practice for safe handling and stacking.

Maximising payload while adhering to weight restrictions

The goal of palletising alcoholic beverages is to maximise the use of container space without exceeding legal weight limits. The maximum payload of a shipping container varies by region and transport regulations, so it is essential to balance pallet height and bottle weight with the total allowable limit. Overloading can lead to fines or transport delays, making precise planning essential.

Some shippers choose to load shipments without pallets to optimise space. While this method increases the number of cases that fit within a container, it requires specialised handling equipment for loading and unloading. Using slip sheets instead of pallets can increase the number of cases loaded per container. Slip sheets are thin plastic or cardboard sheets placed between layers of stacked cases, allowing for more efficient use of space while still maintaining stability.

Shipping pallets and associated regulations

When using wooden pallets, it is critical to ensure compliance with ISPM 15 regulations. These international standards apply to wooden packaging materials used in global trade, requiring that wood be treated to prevent the spread of pests. ISPM 15-compliant pallets are heat-treated or chemically fumigated and marked accordingly.

Certain pallet types are exempt from ISPM 15 regulations, including:

• Presswood pallets
• Plastic pallets
• Euroblock pallet blocks

For more details, visit  www.ispm15.com or in our article here.

Wooden barrels and phytosanitary measures

Phytosanitary regulations also apply to wooden barrels, particularly those made from North American (US or Canadian) sawn timber, as this timber is subject to stricter controls to prevent the spread of pests. If these barrels are processed in the EU before being imported into the UK, they must be heat-treated to clear customs. However, barrels manufactured in the US/Canada and then shipped to the EU before moving to the UK must meet the same heat treatment requirements for compliance.

Looking for a logistics partner

Hillebrand Gori specialises in the transport of wine, beer and spirits, offering expert guidance on pallet selection, container loading and compliance with global transport regulations. With extensive experience in optimising shipments, our team can help you get every container filled efficiently while adhering to road weight limits and international standards.

For more information on how we can assist with your shipments, contact us today.

Reviewed by Hillebrand Gori