Pallet calculator: boxes per layer and per pallet
This pallet calculator works out how many boxes you can stack on one pallet. Choose a standard pallet (EUR/EPAL 1,200 × 800 mm, 1,200 × 1,000 mm or the North American 48 × 40 in GMA), enter your box size and weight, set the maximum height and gross weight, and it shows boxes per layer, number of layers, total boxes, loaded height, gross weight and how many pallets a shipment needs.
A top-view drawing shows how the best layer is arranged, with boxes in both orientations when a mixed layout fits more. Everything runs in your browser.
How to use the Pallet Calculator
- Pick the pallet type or choose Custom size. Switch between cm · kg and in · lb at any time.
- Set the maximum stack height including the pallet and the maximum gross weight your carrier, truck or rack allows. Both are editable.
- Enter the box length, width, height and weight. Tick “This side up” if boxes must stay upright.
- Read boxes per layer, layers and the total, then check the drawing. Enter a shipment size to get pallets needed.
Pallet Calculator features
Standard pallet presets
EUR 1,200 × 800, 1,200 × 1,000 and 48 × 40 in, each with a typical pallet height and weight you can change.
Both orientations and mixed layers
Tries each box side as the height and rotates the footprint, including a two-block mix.
Height and weight limits
Reports which limit stops the stack, so you know whether a lighter or shorter pack helps.
Layout drawing
A to-scale top view of one layer, with turned boxes in a second colour.
How the calculation works
Boxes per layer comes from fitting the box footprint on the pallet in whole boxes. For 40 × 30 cm boxes on a 120 × 80 cm pallet, the 30 cm side along the length gives 4 across and 2 deep = 8 per layer, which uses the whole pallet area. The tool also tries a layout split into two blocks, where the second block is rotated, because that sometimes fits one or two more boxes.
Layers = (maximum height − pallet height) ÷ box height, rounded down. With a 180 cm limit and a 14.4 cm pallet, 165.6 cm remain, giving 6 layers of 25 cm.
Total boxes is the smaller of layers × boxes per layer and the weight limit, (maximum gross weight − pallet weight) ÷ box weight. Here 6 × 8 = 48 boxes weigh 384 kg, so gross weight is 409 kg.
Standard pallet sizes
Pallet height and weight vary by maker and wood moisture, so the presets are typical values, not specifications. Sources: EPAL pallet dimensions and the GMA 48 × 40 in standard, as published by pallet suppliers, checked 19 October 2026. For container planning use the container loading calculator, and see volumetric weight for what a carrier will charge.
| Pallet | Size | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| EUR / EPAL 1 | 1,200 × 800 mm (47.2 × 31.5 in) | Europe; 144 mm high, about 25 kg empty |
| ISO 1 / industrial | 1,200 × 1,000 mm (47.2 × 39.4 in) | Europe and export, chemicals and drinks |
| GMA | 48 × 40 in (1,219 × 1,016 mm) | North America; grocery and general freight |
Limits to keep in mind
- It handles one box size per pallet. For mixed sizes, calculate each product on its own pallet or use dedicated palletising software.
- Layers are all the same pattern; real pallets often alternate (interlock) layers for stability, which can change counts slightly.
- No overhang is allowed. Check bottom-box crush strength and the pallet’s rated load before stacking heavy goods.
- Carriers may measure height and weight differently or add their own limits. Their quote is final.
Pallet Calculator FAQ
How many boxes fit on a pallet?
It depends on the box size and your limits. 40 × 30 × 25 cm boxes on a 1,200 × 800 mm pallet with a 180 cm limit give 8 per layer and 48 per pallet.
What is the standard pallet size?
In Europe 1,200 × 800 mm (EUR/EPAL); in North America 48 × 40 inches (GMA); 1,200 × 1,000 mm is also common for industrial and export freight.
What height should a pallet be stacked to?
It depends on the vehicle, rack or carrier. 180 cm is a common planning height in Europe and 72 in or less in the US, but use the limit you were given.
Can I mix box sizes on one pallet?
Not in this calculator. Treat each size separately, or use 3D palletising software for mixed loads.
Does the weight of the pallet count?
Yes. Gross weight includes the empty pallet, and the calculator subtracts it from your weight limit before counting boxes.
Why does turning the box change the answer?
A box standing on a different side has a different footprint and height. A flatter footprint can fit more per layer, but fewer layers.