Pallet Sizes in Malaysia: Measuring Loaded Dimensions for Racking

Pallets used in Malaysian warehouses come in more than one size. Before ordering racking, measure the actual pallets you handle, including their loaded dimensions, not just the bare footprint. This guide explains documented pallet types, what to measure and how loaded pallets differ from empty ones.

Documented pallet types

GS1’s platform-type code list identifies both ISO 1 (1200 x 800 mm) and ISO 2 (1200 x 1000 mm) as standard pallet types used internationally. These are two documented types; they are not the only sizes in circulation and GS1 does not establish which type is more common in any particular country or region.

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As a named Malaysian example, CHEP Malaysia’s ECR pallet has a 1200 x 1000 mm footprint and is described for use in the Malaysian market. Its product sheet is published at chep.com/my. This is one specific product from one supplier. Other pallet suppliers, custom sizes and reconditioned pallets are also in use.

If your warehouse receives pallets from multiple suppliers or countries, you may handle both sizes and possibly non-standard sizes. Always measure your actual pallets rather than assuming a single type.

What to measure: empty pallet

Record these dimensions for each pallet type you use:

• Footprint: overall length and width of the deck, measured at the widest point
• Height: from the floor to the top of the deck boards (unloaded)
• Entry: which sides the forklift tines can enter (two-way or four-way entry)
• Condition: note any damage (boards, blocks, warping) and follow the pallet manufacturer’s or your site’s condition assessment procedure before loading or racking a damaged pallet

Why loaded dimensions differ from the footprint

An empty pallet’s footprint is not the space it occupies in a rack. Once goods are loaded, the total size changes in three ways:

Overhang

Cartons or goods may extend beyond the pallet edge. Measure the loaded pallet at its widest and longest points, not just the pallet deck. Even 50 mm of overhang on each side adds 100 mm to the effective width.

Total loaded height

Loaded height is one of the inputs the racking supplier uses alongside the rack structure, equipment clearances and safety requirements to determine beam spacing. Measure from the floor to the top of the highest item on the pallet, including any wrapping or cap.

Total loaded weight

Record the typical and maximum weight of a loaded pallet. This is the total of the goods, packaging and the pallet itself. Provide this complete loaded mass to the racking supplier so they can determine the appropriate rack specification. A pallet supplier’s load rating describes what the pallet can carry; the rack’s rated capacity is a separate figure determined by the rack manufacturer for a specific configuration. Do not transfer one to the other.

Measurement worksheet

Copy this table for each pallet type you handle. Fill in measured values and note anything you have estimated.

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Worked example: loaded pallet versus bare footprint

This is an illustrative example using hypothetical numbers to show how the entries relate. It is not a specification for your warehouse, and the pallet dimensions here are not drawn from any particular product’s data sheet.

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The racking supplier uses the loaded outer dimensions, total height and total weight alongside the rack structure, handling equipment and required clearances to propose a configuration. The bare 1200 x 1000 mm footprint alone is not enough information.

What to do with these measurements

Include the completed worksheet when requesting a racking quotation. The supplier uses loaded pallet measurements, your handling equipment type and floor/space details together to propose a layout.

For pallet racking options, see Hyperack’s selective pallet racking and double deep pallet racking product pages. If you have already measured your stockroom, the stockroom measurement guide explains what spatial information to prepare alongside pallet data. If you are also comparing quotations from multiple suppliers, the quotation comparison guide and the load label guide may help.

For help collecting all the information a supplier needs, download the Hyperack Racking Quotation Brief (PDF).

Confirm your measurements with the pallet manufacturer or supplier if any value is estimated. The racking design depends on accurate loaded dimensions, not nominal pallet catalogue sizes.

Frequently asked questions

Is there one standard pallet size in Malaysia?

No. GS1 documents both 1200 x 1000 mm and 1200 x 800 mm types among its international standards. Other sizes are also in use depending on the industry and supply chain. Measure the pallets you actually receive and handle.

Can I use the pallet supplier’s load capacity to choose a rack?

No. A pallet’s rated static or dynamic load describes what the pallet itself can carry. The rack’s rated capacity is a separate figure determined by the rack manufacturer for the specific beam and frame configuration. Provide your loaded pallet weight to the racking supplier; they determine the appropriate rack specification.

What if my goods overhang the pallet?

Record the loaded outer dimensions including any overhang. The supplier needs these to set the correct bay width and ensure the load fits with adequate clearance. Overhanging goods that extend into the aisle or adjacent bay create handling and safety problems.

How do I send my measurements to Hyperack?

Use Hyperack’s contact page with your completed worksheet, photographs of the pallets and stored goods, and any stockroom measurements you have. The team will advise what additional information is needed.