Pallet height limit guide
How tall a pallet can be stacked depends on where it's going. Use the reference table below, or calculate your own max layers.
| Context | Typical max total height |
|---|---|
| Standard warehouse rack beam level | 1500 - 1830mm (60-72in) |
| 53ft dry van trailer (US road) | ~2690mm (106in) interior |
| 40ft High Cube ocean container | ~2698mm (106in) interior |
| Standard dock door | ~2440mm (96in) |
| Air ULD (LD3 / PMC) | ~1626mm (64in) |
These are common reference figures, not universal rules — always confirm against the specific carrier, warehouse or container you're using.
Max layers calculator
Available load height–
Max layers–
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard maximum pallet height?
There is no single legal maximum — it depends on the transport mode and destination. Road freight in the US commonly caps around 96in (2440mm) total height for standard trailers, ocean containers allow more (see the container capacity pages), and warehouse racking is limited by beam clearance, often 60-72in.
Does pallet height include the pallet itself?
Yes — 'total height' means measured from the floor, including the pallet's own height (typically 120-150mm), not just the load stacked on top of it.