Pallet Types in B2B Food Trade

Pallet types in B2B food trade

Pallet type choice is a logistics parameter often underestimated by B2B buyers, despite directly determining compatibility with unloading docks, automated warehouses and export regulations. Mastering palletisation standards is essential to avoid delivery refusals, repackaging extra costs or customs blockages.

The EUR-EPAL pallet — the European standard

The EUR-EPAL pallet (1200 x 800 mm) is the essential standard for intra-European trade. Certified by the European Pallet Association, it is recognised throughout the European logistics network and benefits from a standardised exchange system between carriers and warehouses — the empty pallet is swapped for an equivalent full pallet at each delivery, avoiding systematic purchase of new pallets.

The half-pallet (Düsseldorf)

Reduced format (800 x 600 mm), the half-pallet is used for lower-volume products or to optimise space in small retail shelving. Less internationally standardised than EUR-EPAL, it remains widely used in local food distribution.

The one-way pallet

Unlike the deposit-based, reusable EUR-EPAL pallet, the one-way pallet is not meant to be returned to the supplier — it is generally destroyed, recycled or kept by the recipient. More economical per unit but with no trade-in value, it is preferred for long-distance exports where returning the empty pallet would be economically absurd (Africa, Middle East, Asia).

The plastic pallet — the hygienic alternative

For products requiring enhanced hygiene levels (meat, fish, dairy), the plastic pallet offers decisive advantages: no risk of splinter contamination, resistance to humidity and high-pressure washing, longer lifespan (several years versus a few cycles for wood), and simplified compliance with export phytosanitary requirements (no ISPM 15 treatment needed). Its higher purchase cost is generally offset by its longevity.

The CHEP format — pallet rental

CHEP is a blue pallet rental system (often wood or plastic depending on range) managed by the Australian operator of the same name. Widely used in European mass retail, it operates on a pooling principle: the shipper rents the necessary pallets, they circulate through the supply chain, then are recovered and reconditioned by CHEP for re-rental. This system reduces administrative management for distributors working with major retailers requiring this standard.

Stacking and stability of food pallets

Beyond pallet type, the stacking method is decisive for transport safety. Best practices include: multi-layer stretch wrapping (minimum 3 wraps per level), supplementary strapping for heavy loads, cardboard dividers to stabilise light carton levels, and strict compliance with maximum regulatory height (generally 1.80 to 2.20 m depending on transport mode).

What this means for your B2B orders at Martigane

• The EUR-EPAL format is our standard for all France, Belgium and EU deliveries — compatible with nearly all professional warehouses.
• For long-distance export (Africa, Middle East), we systematically use one-way pallets treated with ISPM 15, avoiding any empty pallet return cost.
• On request, we offer plastic pallets for chilled or frozen products requiring enhanced hygiene.
• Wrapping and strapping are systematic on all our shipments, compliant with road and maritime transport standards.