Pallet Transport Price: What You Really Pay to Move Goods
When you ship goods on a pallet, a flat transport platform used to move heavy or bulky items. Also known as a pallet crate, it's the backbone of modern logistics for everything from furniture to warehouse stock. But the pallet transport price isn’t just a number—it’s shaped by distance, weight, carrier type, and even the time of year. Many assume it’s a flat rate, but the truth is more like a puzzle where each piece changes the final cost.
What affects that price? First, LTL shipping, Less Than Truckload freight where multiple shipments share one truck. Also called partial truckload, it’s the most common way small to mid-sized businesses move pallets. If your shipment doesn’t fill a full trailer, LTL is your go-to. Then there’s freight rates, the cost per hundredweight (CWT) or per pallet, set by carriers based on demand and fuel. These rates jump in winter, during holiday rushes, or if you’re shipping to rural areas. You’ll also pay extra for lift-gate service, inside delivery, or if your pallet isn’t properly wrapped and labeled.
Don’t forget the pallet logistics, the entire system of handling, stacking, and moving pallets from warehouse to door. A poorly built pallet can get rejected at the dock, delaying your shipment and adding fees. Standard pallets in the UK are 120cm x 100cm (EUR pallet) or 120cm x 80cm (UK pallet)—know which one your carrier accepts. And if you’re shipping internationally, customs paperwork can add days and hidden charges that aren’t in the original quote.
Some people think bigger carriers like DHL or FedEx always win on price, but local freight companies often beat them by 20–40% for regional moves. And if you’re shipping multiple pallets, bundling them into a full truckload can slash your cost per unit. The key is to compare quotes, not just pick the cheapest upfront. Look at delivery windows, insurance coverage, and tracking reliability too.
There’s no single answer to "how much does pallet transport cost?"—but you can control the variables. Measure your pallets accurately. Use the right packaging. Ship during off-peak weeks. And always ask if the quote includes fuel surcharges and handling fees. The difference between a good deal and a bad one isn’t luck—it’s knowing what to ask for.
Below, you’ll find real-world breakdowns, carrier comparisons, and tips from people who ship pallets every week. No fluff. Just what actually moves the needle on your bottom line.
Pallet delivery costs vary by weight, distance, speed, and handling. Learn the real prices in 2025, hidden fees to avoid, and how to save money on shipping your pallets across the country.
Dec, 4 2025