How Many Pallets Fit on a 26 Foot Box Truck?

The number of pallets that can fit on a 26-foot box truck will depend on numerous factors. Have it in mind that you can load a box truck in many ways, and each arrangement will leverage space a little differently. Pallets are known to come in different shapes, sizes, and materials.

Some are used for particular industries or types of products. The most common standard pallet size is 40-by-48 inches. Pallets are usually flat structures that function as a base for goods during transport and storage.

These structures are very vital in the transportation of goods because they guarantee that the goods will be firmly secured to avoid damage and also ensure that loading and unloading the truck becomes less stressful. According to reports, the standard pallet sizing (40-by-48 inches) was made popular in the 1960s by the currently rebranded Grocery Manufacturers’ Association (GMA).

Note that this standardized size, most often used in North America, still exerts massive influence in pallet dimensions globally. According to the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA), 35% of all freshly manufactured pallets are 40-by-48 inches, the most proportion manufactured in a single size. At a slightly higher margin, 39% are a non-standard size, and this entails that custom sizes are still popular options.

At 48 inches in length per pallet, you can fit two rows of six, for a total of 12 Pallets or 500 medium boxes, single-stacked in a 26-foot box truck. If you double stack, you can fit 24 platforms total. Note that the typical pallet can support anywhere from 3,700 pounds to 4,600 pounds. Pallet strength and load capacity also vary a lot based on construction. Two 40-by-48-inch pallets have different load capacities depending on whether they’re wood, pressed wood, plastic, or another material.

In addition, have it in mind that design and construction play a vital role. A pallet with a bottom deck will usually support heavier loads since the extra deck board guarantees more support. The dimensions and surface area can also determine load capacity.

Therefore, it is vital you look at the specifications of your exact brand and model to ensure they can support the weight you need. A standard empty pallet can weigh anywhere from 30-48 pounds, depending on the material and construction.

Also note that the weight can vary by the pallet’s dimensions, the thickness of the wood, and the material. Lightweight plastic platforms tend to weigh less than 30 pounds, and heavy-duty models may go past 48 pounds. When choosing the type and size of the pallet to use, it is very imperative that you consider the space available in your box truck, the payload capacity of your truck, and the weight of your goods.

Factors that Influence the Number of Pallets that fit on a 26 Foot Box Truck

Pallets are flat, often wooden, structures used as a base while handling transport and storage of goods. They can be used to move all kinds of products ranging from groceries to paper and even automotive parts.

1. Pallet Size

Just like it was noted above, the ideal pallet size will vary based on your industry. Many times, manufacturers require custom-sized pallets made for their goods and products. You want your items to fit perfectly on top of the upper platform without any overhanging portions. A proper fit prevents damage to boxes and gives carriers an evenly shaped, stackable load to work with. Generally, these are the standard pallet sizes available:

• 40-by-48 inches
• 42-by-42 inches
• 48-by-48 inches
• 48-by-42 inches
• 40-by-40 inches
• 48-by-45 inches
• 44-by-44 inches
• 36-by-36 inches
• 48-by-36 inches
• 40-by-24 inches

2. Pallet Width

Note that the pallets’ width determines whether one row or two rows can fit in a box truck. Most 26-foot box trucks have an 8-foot width and the pallets will have to be 48 inches or smaller to fit side-by-side, again making standard sizes helpful. Platforms in non-standard sizes longer than 48 inches in length or width will fit in single rows.

Also, note that the ideal packing height for a pallet is 48 inches. Notably, if you use stackable pallets and the palletized loads measure 48 inches high or lower, you can fit double-stacked pallets on the box truck. If you pack them any higher, it will still hold a single stack.

3. Pallet Material

Globally, wood is the most common material used for manufacturing pallets. Most often, wooden pallets are used for moving goods and also for storage purposes in warehouses. It is popular especially since it is affordable and can be recycled.

However, the strength of the pallet will depend on the type of wood used and how it is made. Metal is another material that is used for building pallets. They are strong, durable, and can be repaired easily. Have it in mind that metal pallets are heavy and tend to add to the weight of the load. Plastic pallets are quite cheaper than the rest but their use is highly discouraged especially since they are not recyclable.

They are also not strong enough to carry heavy loads. Cardboard pallets are most often used inside boxes for packaging owing to their characteristics. They are lightweight, recyclable, inexpensive, and cannot withstand heavyweight.

4. Loading Style

Have it in mind that you can load a box truck in different ways, and each arrangement will surely leverage space a little differently. However, there are certain precautions you can take and also techniques you can leverage while loading your box truck using pallets. Some of these instructions include:

• You have to first ensure you are using the right size pallet for your box truck. For instance, note that 20ft truck will not fit 48×48 sized pallets conveniently.
• It is also important that you avoid placing a load that goes beyond the length and width of your pallet.
• Ensure to ascertain and verify your pallet’s load capacity before placing your goods on it. Maximize the use of your payload capacity by only going for pallets with high load capacity. Broken pallets in transit will make a mess of your shipping.
• For each pallet, make sure the heavy loads are placed first to make a solid base. Many other boxes can then be placed on it. However, while placing your boxes, strive for the cubic shape to maximize your pallet space.

5. Pallet Design

Also, note that each design will accommodate variable weight loads. They can also require special handling or a piece of precise equipment to handle. Each platform type can be manufactured in various sizes, with the most common one being 40-by-48 inches.

A block pallet has a four-way entry by design and is the more durable option. It has nine 4×4 inch wood blocks holding it at all ends and in the middle, ensuring that they maximize the space in your box truck. Stringer pallet remains the most common type of pallet globally. It has three 2×4 boards (stringer) on both sides of the pallet and one running through the middle. A double-face pallet has both a top and bottom deck.

Note that hashing a bottom deck offers the platform extra strength, allowing it to evenly distribute more weight. A solid deck pallet comes with a single, solid sheet as the deck instead of slats. These options eliminate many nooks and crannies, making them easier to arrange and clean.

Conclusion

Using pallets allows a box truck driver to consolidate shipments, as they take up less room in the truck than stacked boxes. A pallet’s standard rectangular or square sizing tends to help carriers maximize space. When a truck can transport more items in a single journey, it saves both time and money. Generally, the number of pallets you can fit on a box truck will surely depend on their sizing, whether you can double stack and the truck’s dimensions.