Pallet Calculator
How many pallets fit in a truck or container, how many boxes fit on a pallet, and whether a liquidation pallet will make money.
Pallets per truck or container
Boxes per pallet (TI × HI)
Liquidation pallet profit calculator
Tip: manifested pallets often contain damaged or missing items. Use a conservative sell-through rate. The default 13.6% + $0.40 matches eBay's most-category fee (see our reseller fee calculator).
Standard pallet & trailer dimensions
| Equipment | Interior L × W × H (in) | 48×40 pallets (floor) |
|---|
The North American standard (GMA) pallet is 48 × 40 in, about 5.5 in tall. A 53 ft dry van fits 26 pallets loaded straight or 30 turned, single-stacked. Federal rules generally cap trucks at 80,000 lb gross on Interstates, so heavy freight often hits the weight limit before the floor is full.
Dimensions last checked: October 16, 2026. Container interiors are Maersk published specs (via RapidShips). Trailer interiors are from Pallet Design and Warp. The pallet standard is from Pallet Broker. The weight limit is 23 CFR 658.17. Real equipment varies by manufacturer.
FAQ
How many pallets fit in a 53 ft trailer?
26 standard 48x40 pallets loaded straight, or 30 turned, in a single layer. Double-stacking can double that if height and weight allow.
How many pallets fit in a 40 ft container?
18 standard 48x40 pallets in a simple straight pattern; about 20 with mixed orientation.
How many pallets fit in a 20 ft container?
8 standard 48x40 pallets in a straight pattern; about 9-10 with mixed orientation.
What size is a standard pallet?
In North America, the GMA pallet is 48 x 40 inches and about 5.5 inches tall.
Are liquidation pallets profitable?
They can be, but only if your realistic sell-through and resale prices cover the pallet price, freight and marketplace fees. Use the break-even sell-through figure above.