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What Is the Most Common Pallet Type?

The most common pallet type in US distribution is the GMA 48x40 inch stringer pallet, accounting for roughly 80% of US grocery and retail distribution.

Resource: AnswerSources: 4

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Quick Answer: The most common pallet type in US distribution is the GMA 48x40 inch stringer pallet, accounting for roughly 80% of US grocery and retail distribution.

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Detailed Answer

The GMA 48x40 inch wood pallet originated from the Grocery Manufacturers Association specifications in the 1960s. It's the dominant unit-load device across US distribution: grocery, retail, food service, beverage, consumer packaged goods, and most B2B logistics. Construction: 7 top deck boards (5/8" thick), 5 bottom deck boards, 3 stringers (1.5" thick with 9" fork notches). Weight: 30-40 lbs. Capacity: 4,600 lbs static / 2,800 lbs racked per ASTM D1185. Major retail DCs (Walmart, Target, Costco, Home Depot, Lowe's) all standardize on this specification.

Authoritative Sources

GMA spec
NWPCA Uniform Standard
RILA
Consumer Brands Association

Companion Resources

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