GMA Pallet Calculator — 48 × 40 in
Estimate cartons per 48 × 40 inch North American pallet footprint using real carton geometry instead of a volume-only ratio.
48 × 40 in is the key footprint assumption
The 48 × 40 inch footprint is the most widely referenced North American grocery/consumer-goods pallet size. PackMize uses that footprint in its GMA preset. Pallet construction, tare and allowable load vary by pool, grade, material and supplier, so the preset load values are planning defaults rather than a universal GMA certification.
Worked example: 16 × 12 × 10 in cartons
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| Pallet footprint | 48 × 40 in |
| Maximum total height | 72 in |
| Carton | 16 × 12 × 10 in |
| Carton weight | 6.8 kg (about 15 lb) |
| Result | 60 cartons · 10/layer · 6 layers |
| Gross planning weight | 428 kg |
The carton footprint can cover the 48 × 40 inch deck completely in the selected pattern. Height rather than payload is the relevant cap in this example.
Why carton orientation matters
A 48 × 40 pallet does not imply one fixed number of cases. A carton that is awkward against one pallet edge may fit efficiently after a 90° in-plane rotation or in a mixed stripe pattern. PackMize compares those deterministic candidates before stacking layers.
Use actual pallet ratings for shipping decisions
Do not infer a safe working load from the GMA name alone. If you know the exact PECO, CHEP, recycled wood or custom pallet specification, enter the real payload/tare values or use a custom pallet profile.
Assumptions and data sources
PackMize separates published reference data from planning assumptions. Always replace a preset with the specification of the pallet, container, sheet or stock you will actually use when operational accuracy matters.
Frequently asked questions
Is every 48 × 40 pallet a GMA pallet?
No. 48 × 40 describes the footprint; construction, grade, material and load rating can differ. Treat the PackMize preset as a planning profile.
Can I calculate in inches?
Yes. The public pallet calculator supports inches while the optimization engine normalizes dimensions internally.
Does PackMize certify rack or dynamic load capacity?
No. It calculates geometric packing and applies the payload value you provide; it does not certify pallet structural performance.