Palletization
Palletization is the process of stacking and securing freight onto pallets for efficient handling, transport, and storage. Properly palletized freight protects cargo integrity, facilitates forklift handling, and can affect freight class determination in LTL shipping.
In Depth
Standard pallet sizes are 48x40 inches (GMA pallet) and 42x42 inches (chemical industry). A standard 53-foot trailer fits 26 standard pallets floor-to-ceiling in double-stack configuration — a key metric for calculating cube efficiency.
Palletization quality directly affects cargo claim risk. Freight stacked too high, with weight concentrated on top, or with inadequate stretch wrap is more likely to shift, collapse, or sustain damage in transit. Many cargo insurance claims trace back to inadequate palletization by the shipper.
In LTL, freight density (which drives freight class) is calculated based on the entire pallet dimensions, not just the freight itself. A small item on a large pallet has artificially low density and will class higher than if it were measured alone.
Usage Example
Example: 'The shipper sent 26 pallets at 800 lbs each — a full 53-footer at 20,800 lbs. Well-palletized freight with no shifting issues.'
Related Calculators
Related Terms
Freight Class
Freight class is a standardized classification system defined by the NMFTA (National Motor Freight Traffic Association) that categorizes LTL freight into 18 classes (50–500) based primarily on density, handling, stowability, and liability.
LTL (Less Than Truckload)
LTL (Less Than Truckload) is a freight shipping method where multiple shippers share space on the same truck, each paying for only the portion of the trailer they use. LTL is used for shipments too large for parcel carriers but too small to fill a full trailer.
Pallet Jack
A pallet jack (also called a pallet truck) is a manual or powered tool used to move palletized freight on smooth surfaces. Manual pallet jacks are standard tools many drivers carry; electric powered pallet jacks are typically found in warehouse operations.
Bill of Lading (BOL)
A Bill of Lading (BOL or B/L) is a legal document issued by a carrier to a shipper that serves as a receipt for cargo, a contract of carriage, and a document of title. The BOL must accompany every shipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pallets fit in a 53-foot trailer?
26 standard 48x40 GMA pallets in a single-layer configuration. Double-stacking is possible with appropriate freight height and weight.