euro-and-export

What is the difference between Euro pallets and export pallets?

John van Boesschoten 24-02-2026 at 16:17 hour

At Q-Pall, we exclusively manufacture plastic pallets that are not only durable and lightweight but also fully recyclable. Based on our experience, we know that choosing the right pallet solution creates long-term benefits throughout the entire supply chain.

Export Pallet or Euro Pallet – Which is the Right Fit for You?

The decision depends on how you intend to use the pallet. A Euro pallet – standardized and widely used – is an essential element for multiple uses in pan-European transport. It is robust, exchangeable, and reusable for years.

The export pallet, on the other hand, makes the most sense when intended for a single transport route. Its typical use is in exports outside the EU or for deliveries where returning the pallet is not planned.

As a manufacturer of plastic pallets, we know both areas of application thoroughly. Our solutions combine the benefits of both variants. They are lightweight, resilient, and support your operational efficiency – whether for a single export shipment or within a circular system.

Focus on Export Pallets: Features and Applications

Export pallets are cost-efficient, readily available, and designed for one-way transport. They are frequently found in the construction industry, for special deliveries, or in global exports. When a return process makes no economic sense, this type of pallet is the most pragmatic solution.

However, our plastic export pallets perform significantly better than one might expect. With proper handling, they can be used multiple times. They are impervious to moisture, absorb shocks better than wood, and are highly hygienic. This makes them perfectly suited for the food or pharmaceutical industries.

Export Requirements and the Advantages of Export Pallets

For exports outside Europe, there are clear advantages. Export pallets do not need to be returned, which simplifies the entire logistics process. They reduce customs clearance efforts and save transport costs. In addition, wooden pallets usually require special treatment according to ISPM 15 – with plastic, this requirement is entirely eliminated.

Our plastic pallets meet all typical export requirements. They contain no organic residues, are resistant to fungi, and are easy to clean. Especially for sensitive goods, they are the preferred alternative – stable enough for loads up to 1000 kg or more (depending on the pallet model) and safe to handle.

Direct Comparison: Export Pallets vs. Euro Pallets

Export pallets and Euro pallets differ in several respects. Euro pallets are made of wood or plastic. The former is standardized, often exchangeable, and highly durable. These options are subject to the strict guidelines of the European Pallet Association (EPAL) and are easily recognizable by the EPAL stamp.

With their standard dimensions of 1200 × 800 mm, they are ideal for seamless integration into logistics and warehousing. The export pallet in this size dispenses with the stamp. It is often more cost-efficient and flexible. Export pallets are not returned but remain with the recipient.

As a result, they are particularly well-suited for one-off deliveries or global exports. Plastic pallets in the Euro pallet size combine many advantages: they offer compatibility with existing systems, are lightweight, robust, and often reusable – yet without being part of the EPAL exchange system.

Pallets in Euro pallet dimensions can certainly be designed as export pallets. These are not genuine Euro pallets in the sense of the EPAL standard, but transport pallets that simply share the same dimensions of 1200 × 800 mm.

These pallets – for example, made of plastic or simple wooden designs – are specifically designed for export. They are ideal when goods are shipped without planning for return transport or exchange in the pallet pool. Thus, they combine the practical standard size with the flexibility of an export shipment.

At Q-Pall, we combine the best of both worlds: our plastic pallets meet the standard dimensions of the Euro pallet while simultaneously offering the practical benefits of an export pallet. They are lightweight, stable, and contribute to your sustainability strategy – without compromising on quality or eco-friendliness.

The Euro Pallet as a Standardized Solution in Everyday Logistics

Hardly any component in the supply chain is as familiar as the Euro pallet. It is an essential element of everyday logistics, recognized as reliable, resilient, and dimensionally accurate. In many warehouses and fleets, it is simply indispensable. Its dimensions are tailored to the European market, and its load capacity is exceptional.

Furthermore, it is accessible from all sides by forklifts, which simplifies handling. Although we do not manufacture wooden pallets, we at Q-Pall have developed plastic alternatives that are identical in size and function. Yet, they offer additional advantages: no rotting, no splinters, and no moisture absorption.

This ensures your goods remain protected and your processes stay highly hygienic.

The Europool Pallet and Its Role in the Pallet Exchange System

The open exchange system in Europe is based on the Europool pallet. Companies that regularly exchange pallets benefit from constant availability and decreasing costs. If a pallet gets damaged, it can be repaired and reused. This is a substantial contribution to the circular economy and sustainability.

Our plastic pallets can be seamlessly integrated into this system. They conform to standardized dimensions, are highly durable, and require minimal maintenance. They do not splinter, are easier to clean, and retain their precise shape even under heavy loads. This allows you to leverage the benefits of the classic pallet exchange system – with less operational effort and vastly superior hygiene.

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