When it comes to moving stock safely and efficiently, nothing is more important than choosing the right pallet. In Australia, the most widely used option is the Australian Standard Pallet – a durable, reusable and reliable solution designed to suit our unique freight and warehousing systems in mind.
At Export Pallets, we supply high-quality timber and plastic pallets built to meet Australian Standards, ensuring your business can store, transport and export goods with confidence.
What Is an Australian Standard Pallet?
An Australian Standard Pallet is a pallet designed to the nationally recognised size of 1165mm × 1165mm. This square shape is unique to Australia and is specifically designed to fit the racking systems, trucks and containers commonly used in the country. These are perfect for moving stock around the country, but you will need to adjust pallets used when and if you begin to move stock internationally.
Pallets are available in timber, plastic or steel, but timber remains the most common due to its cost-effectiveness, strength, and repairability, so most Australian businesses stick with this.
Why Australian Businesses Use Standard Pallets
Using standard pallets provides a range of benefits, including:
- Perfect compatibility with Australian racking and forklifts – everyone can pick up and move these pallets with ease and there is no surprises at the other end.
- Strength and reliability for heavy-duty loads – while all pallets are designed to carry loads – the Australian standard pallet can be reliably used by Aussie businesses who trust that it can work with their stock as needed.
- Compliance with Australian and international shipping requirements – when moving stock around it’s best to get it right the first time to avoid costly re-packing! Speak with our experienced team if you need some advice on the correct pallet choice for your export needs.
- Sustainability, A benefit of using a standard sized pallet means they will be able to go back into the pallet ecosystem and be reused again! They can also likely be repaired as needed.
Industry Applications
Australian Standard Pallets are used across a wide range of industries, including:
- Warehousing and logistics
- Retail and fast-moving consumer goods
- Industrial and manufacturing
- Import and export businesses
Specifications You Need to Know
Australian standard pallets have the below characteristics:
- Size: 1165mm x 1165mm
- Load capacity: Up to 2000kg (depending on construction)
- Standards: Designed in accordance with AS 4068-1993
- Export compliance: Must meet ISPM-15 requirements when shipped overseas
Australian vs International Pallets
Unlike Euro pallets (1200 × 800mm) and US pallets (1219 × 1016mm), Australian Standard Pallets are square. This difference means international pallets often don’t fit Australian racking, creating storage inefficiencies. For Australian businesses, sticking with the national standard ensures smoother operations and better compatibility.
When importing stock, asking your supplier to ship goods to you on Australian standard pallets would be the most efficient move to reduce storage issues and enable better movement between Australian warehouses if required.
Buying or Renting Pallets
Depending on your needs, you can:
- Buy new pallets for long-term use
- Buy recycled pallets for a cost-effective option
- Rent pooled pallets, which is another option that we don’t offer here at Export pallets – however we can purchase your pallets back off you to make it a more cost-effective exercise!
At Export Pallets, we offer both new and recycled Australian Standard Pallets, giving you flexible options for your business.
Are Australian Standard Pallets sustainable and eco-friendly?
As Australian Standard Pallets are a set size, this makes them more sustainable as they can easily re-enter the market for repurpose by a huge range of Australian businesses. Typically, they are timber, which means they are recyclable, repairable and can be heat-treated to kill any pests or bugs and keep the pallets in use for a longer duration.
FAQs
Q: What size is an Australian Standard Pallet?
A: 1165mm x 1165mm.
Q: Can they be used for export?
A: Yes, provided they are ISPM-15 heat treated or fumigated.
Q: How much weight can they hold?
A: Up to 2000kg depending on the pallet’s construction.
Q: Can I use Euro or US pallets in Australia?
A: While possible, they often don’t fit Australian storage and transport systems as well as Australian ones do.
Australian Standard Pallets are the backbone of supply chains across the country. With their unique sizing, strength, and reliability, they are essential for any Australian business that values efficiency and compliance.
At Export Pallets, we supply both new and recycled Australian Standard Pallets to businesses across Australia. Whether you need bulk supply, export-ready pallets, or sustainable solutions, our team can help.
👉 Contact Export Pallets today to discuss your pallet needs.