Pallet Shipping from the UK: International Guide for Businesses

Everything businesses need to know about shipping palletised goods internationally from the UK — methods, costs, and regulations.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need heat-treated pallets for international shipping?

Yes. ISPM 15 certified heat-treated pallets are mandatory for virtually all international shipments. Non-compliant pallets will be rejected at the destination port.

How many pallets fit in a shipping container?

A standard 20ft container holds 10–11 Euro pallets or 8–9 UK pallets. A 40ft container holds 23–24 Euro pallets or 18–20 UK pallets.

Can I ship hazardous goods on pallets?

Yes, but hazardous goods require special documentation, packaging, and labelling. Additional charges and restrictions apply. Contact us for specific guidance.

What is volumetric weight?

Volumetric weight is calculated from the dimensions of the pallet (L × W × H ÷ 5000 for air, ÷ 1000 for sea). Shipping is charged on actual or volumetric weight, whichever is greater.

What's the minimum pallet shipment size?

There's no formal minimum, but below 1 cbm or 200kg the per-unit cost becomes uneconomic compared with courier or parcel services. For single small items under 30kg, DHL or UPS international is usually cheaper than LCL.

Can I ship pallets and a vehicle in the same container?

Yes — pallets can be loaded around a vehicle in a 40ft container, provided total weight and lashing constraints are respected. Useful when shipping a car together with household effects or business stock. Total combined load typically capped at 26 tonnes.

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