1. Common Ground – They Share the Same Standard:
Both EUR-pallets and EPAL pallets are designed according to the European Pallet Association (EPAL) standard. This standard is based on the UIC 435-2 specification, which defines the dimensions, materials, and quality requirements for Euro pallets. The standard size is 1200 mm × 800 mm, and both types are built to ensure compatibility in logistics, stacking, and forklift handling.
So in terms of size, structure, and functionality, EUR pallets and EPAL pallets are the same.
2. The Key Difference – Who Licenses and Controls the Production:
- EUR-Pallets:
These are pallets marked with the “EUR” logo, and they originated under the International Union of Railways (UIC). Earlier, various European railway companies authorized the use of this mark. They were part of a cooperative exchange system to allow seamless transport of goods across borders by rail. - EPAL-Pallets:
These are pallets marked with the “EPAL” logo, managed and licensed by the European Pallet Association (EPAL) since 1991. EPAL controls quality assurance, production licenses, and repair licenses, and has a strong anti-counterfeit system. EPAL pallets are inspected and certified more strictly, and they’ve become the most widely trusted version of Euro pallets today.
3. Modern Usage – EPAL PALLETS Has Become the Standard:
In 2013, EPAL and UIC ended their collaboration. Since then, only EPAL pallets have been considered the fully licensed and globally recognized version. EPAL pallets are marked with:
- The EPAL logo on the left and right blocks
- A country code and license number
- An IPPC stamp for heat treatment (ISPM 15 compliance)
Conclusion:
- EUR-pallet: A general term for pallets following the Euro standard, often seen with older UIC-issued marks.
- EPAL-pallet: A specific version of Euro pallet, officially licensed and controlled by EPAL with stronger quality control.
We have been continuously dedicated to the research and development of new pallet nailing machines (Vertical pallet nailing machine and Horizontal pallet nailing machine) and wood chips block machines for producing EPAL-standard pallets. The pallets and blocks made by our machines fully comply with European pallet standards.
Moreover, by simply changing the mold, our pallet machines can be customized to produce pallets or blocks in special sizes to meet unique customer requirements.
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