§1When to buy it
Export loads to European customers who ask for 1200×800 mm.
Mixed loads where the destination warehouse racks in metric footprints.
§2RFQ fields
| Footprint | 1200 × 800 mm, tolerance stated in mm |
|---|---|
| Style | Block, true 4-way |
| Treatment and mark | ISPM 15 heat treatment (HT) with complete mark on two opposite sides |
| Licensed design | If you need a licensed EPAL/EUR pallet, ask for proof of licence; otherwise specify "1200 × 800 mm block, non-licensed" |
| Rated loads | Dynamic and static loads in kg |
| Volume and cadence | Pallets per month, delivery ZIP, ports served |
§3Acceptance and reject criteria
| Accept a pallet when… | Reject a pallet when… |
|---|---|
| Footprint within tolerance. | Missing or partial ISPM 15 mark. |
| Complete ISPM 15 mark on two opposite sides. | Licensed-brand marks on a pallet that isn't from a licensed producer. |
| Bark within the ISPM 15 tolerance. | Broken or missing blocks or boards. |
§4Inspecting deliveries
- Sample each delivery with an attribute sampling plan agreed in the contract (ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 general inspection level II is a common reference), and record the lot size, sample size and defects found.
- Count a pallet as defective on the first reject criterion it meets; don't add up minor faults into a reject unless the contract says so.
- Photograph every rejected pallet with the delivery's bill of lading number visible, and send the photos with the debit note within the contract's notice window.
§5What to watch in the contract
Ask your consignee whether it wants licensed exchange pallets; if it does, a look-alike may be refused.
Metric pallets are a niche in the US. Lead times are longer and minimum orders higher than for 48×40.
Grade words vary by supplier and region; confirm every field with your receivers and your own engineering.
For the engineering standards behind these fields, see palletstandards.com.