Definition
The weight of an empty pallet without any cargo. Tare weight is subtracted from gross weight to determine the net weight (payload) of the goods on the pallet. Typical wood GMA pallets weigh between 30 and 70 pounds depending on construction and lumber species. Pallet tare weight directly impacts shipping costs, especially in air freight and weight-sensitive trucking lanes. Lightweight pallets made from plastic, molded wood fiber, or corrugated can significantly reduce tare weight.
Related Terms
Payload
The total weight of the goods placed on a pallet, excluding the weight of the pallet itself. Payload capacity is determined by the lesser of the pallet's load rating and the handling equipment's lifting capacity. Maximizing payload per pallet while staying within weight limits is a key objective in logistics optimization. Payload weight must also be considered in relation to trailer weight limits and road transport regulations.
Pallet
A flat transport structure, typically made of wood, that supports goods in a stable fashion while being lifted by a forklift, pallet jack, or other jacking device. Pallets are the foundation of modern material handling and logistics, enabling efficient storage, stacking, and transportation of goods. The most common pallet size in North America is the 48x40 inch GMA pallet.
Molded Pallet
A pallet manufactured by compressing and molding wood fibers, recycled plastic, or other composite materials into shape under heat and pressure. Molded pallets are lightweight, consistent in dimensions, nestable, and often exempt from ISPM-15 requirements since the manufacturing process eliminates pest risks. They are popular for export shipping, air freight, and applications where pallet weight is a major cost factor.
Corrugated Pallet
A pallet constructed primarily from heavy-duty corrugated fiberboard rather than wood or plastic. Corrugated pallets are lightweight, recyclable, and exempt from ISPM-15 phytosanitary requirements since they are not solid wood. They are suitable for lighter loads and one-way shipping applications, especially in export markets where avoiding wood treatment costs is advantageous. However, they have lower load capacity and moisture resistance than wood pallets.
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