It is neither complex nor digital. It is flat, rectangular and appears inconspicuous. And yet it is one of the most important inventions in the history of logistics: the pallet. Whether it's food, machinery or electronics — hardly any shipment of goods can do without them today. But how did this simple tool come about? And why is it so important for world trade?

From war to mass logistics: The pallet's first steps

The origins of the palette date back to the Second World War. The US Army was looking for a way to load equipment and supplies faster and transport them more efficiently. The result: a wooden platform on which goods could be stacked and moved with forklifts — the first pallet was born.

With the advent of modern industrial conveyor technology — particularly the forklift — the range quickly gained in importance. It enabled a whole new level of automation in warehouses and ports. As early as the 1950s, millions of pallets were being used worldwide.

The euro pallet — uniform, practical, reusable

A real milestone in 1961 was the introduction of the Euro pallet (EPAL pallet), a standardized wooden pallet measuring 1200 × 800 mm. For the first time, this standardization enabled consistent handling throughout Europe — regardless of manufacturer or means of transport. Even today, the euro pallet is the backbone of European goods traffic.

The benefits are obvious:

• Uniform dimensions: compatible with rack systems, truck beds and containers
• Reusability: Pallets are repaired and put back into circulation
• Exchange system: Pallets can be exchanged for equivalent models at transfer points

More than just wood: new materials and requirements

In addition to the classic wooden pallet, plastic and metal pallets have also become established in recent decades. They are used primarily in sensitive industries such as the pharmaceutical or food industries. This includes factors such as hygiene, weight and weather resistance.

Treated or alternative materials also play a role in exports to certain countries — such as Australia or the USA — as strict phytosanitary regulations apply there.

The role of pallets in digital logistics

Even in the digital world, pallets remain an integral part of the supply chain — only more intelligent. Equipped with RFID chips and QR codes, pallets can now be tracked, counted and integrated into digital inventory management systems. The once analog logistics assistant has become part of smart supply chains.

Futurologists and industry experts even see potential for autonomous pallet systems in warehouses that organize themselves — meaning that the pallet remains adaptable.

Sustainability and circular economy

Pallets are not only useful but also surprisingly sustainable. A typical wooden pallet can remain in circulation for up to 10 years — including repairs. At the end of its life cycle, it is recycled or thermally recycled. This makes it a component of the circular economy.

The industry is also increasingly developing CO₂-optimized models: from lightweight pallets to recycled materials to modular systems that require less energy and raw materials.