Size Guide
Find the perfect gaylord box size for your needs. Our comprehensive guide covers all standard dimensions and specifications.
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Standard Gaylord Sizes
| Name | Dimensions (L x W x H) | Volume (cu ft) | Typical Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Full | 48" x 40" x 36" | 40 | 2,000+ lbs | General bulk storage |
| Standard Tall | 48" x 40" x 48" | 53 | 2,500+ lbs | Lightweight bulky items |
| Standard Short | 48" x 40" x 24" | 27 | 1,500+ lbs | Heavy dense materials |
| Half Gaylord | 48" x 40" x 18" | 20 | 1,000+ lbs | Small parts, samples |
| Octagon | 48" x 40" x 41" | 42 | 2,000+ lbs | Produce, round items |
| Extra Tall | 48" x 40" x 60" | 67 | 2,000+ lbs | Very light items |
| Wide | 48" x 48" x 36" | 48 | 2,200+ lbs | Square pallets |
| Produce | 40" x 48" x 28" | 31 | 1,500+ lbs | Agricultural products |
Understanding Dimensions
Gaylord box dimensions are typically listed as Length x Width x Height. The standard 48" x 40" footprint matches a GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) pallet, which is the most common pallet size in North America.
How to Choose
Consider Your Product
- Weight of contents
- Shape and size of items
- Stacking requirements
- Access needed during storage
Think About Space
- Warehouse ceiling height
- Forklift clearance
- Truck/trailer dimensions
- Storage rack compatibility
Plan for Handling
- Loading/unloading method
- Pallet jack access
- Manual handling needs
- Shipping requirements
Wall Types
Double Wall
Two layers of corrugated material. Good for general-purpose applications with moderate weight requirements.
- • Standard strength
- • Cost-effective
- • Good for items up to 1,500 lbs
Triple Wall
Three layers of corrugated material. Maximum strength for heavy-duty applications and export shipping.
- • Maximum strength
- • Excellent stacking
- • Ideal for 2,000+ lbs
Size by Application
Automotive Parts
- 48x40x36" - metal parts
- 48x40x48" - plastic components
- 48x40x24" - heavy castings
Food & Beverage
- 48x40x28" - produce
- 48x40x36" - dry goods
- Octagon - fruits & vegetables
Pharmaceuticals
- 48x40x36" - packaged goods
- 48x40x24" - heavy bottles
- 48x40x18" - small vials
Recycling Centers
- 48x40x48" - plastics
- 48x40x60" - lightweight materials
- 48x48x36" - mixed materials
Textiles & Apparel
- 48x40x48" - clothing
- 48x40x60" - linens
- 48x40x36" - fabric rolls
Electronics
- 48x40x36" - components
- 48x40x24" - heavy equipment
- 48x40x48" - packaging materials
Volume Reference
| Height | Volume (48x40 base) | Approx. Bushels | Approx. Gallons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18" | 20 cu ft | 16 | 150 |
| 24" | 27 cu ft | 21 | 200 |
| 28" | 31 cu ft | 25 | 230 |
| 36" | 40 cu ft | 32 | 300 |
| 41" | 46 cu ft | 36 | 340 |
| 48" | 53 cu ft | 42 | 400 |
| 60" | 67 cu ft | 53 | 500 |
* Volume calculations based on standard 48" x 40" base dimensions. Actual usable volume may vary.
Stacking Guidelines
Safe Stacking Practices
- Never stack more than 3-4 boxes high
- Place heaviest loads at the bottom
- Ensure contents are evenly distributed
- Check for structural damage before stacking
- Use edge protectors for added stability
- Allow for air circulation between stacks
Maximum Stack Heights
Grade A (Premium)
Max: 4 boxes - Up to 2,500 lbs each
Grade B (Standard)
Max: 3 boxes - Up to 2,000 lbs each
Grade C (Economy)
Max: 2 boxes - Up to 1,500 lbs each
Pallet Compatibility
GMA Pallet (48" x 40")
The most common pallet in North America. Standard gaylord boxes are designed to fit perfectly on this pallet size.
Compatible Sizes:
- • Standard Full
- • Standard Tall
- • Standard Short
- • Half Gaylord
- • Octagon
Square Pallet (48" x 48")
Common in chemical and drum industries. Requires wider gaylord boxes for proper fit.
Compatible Sizes:
- • Wide (48x48x36")
- • Custom square sizes
Half Pallet (48" x 20")
Used for smaller loads and retail displays. Requires custom-sized gaylord boxes.
Compatible Sizes:
- • Custom half-size boxes
- • Modified standard boxes
Measurement Tips
How to Measure
- 1Length: Measure the longest side (front to back)
- 2Width: Measure the shorter side (side to side)
- 3Height: Measure from base to top edge
- 4Always measure inside dimensions for capacity
- 5Measure outside dimensions for storage planning
Important Notes
- Used boxes may vary slightly from stated dimensions
- Allow 1-2" tolerance when planning storage
- Check clearance heights for forklifts and doors
- Consider product overhang when selecting height
- Flaps add approximately 4" when closed
Size & Dimension Guides
Learn more about choosing the right gaylord box size
Complete Gaylord Box Size Guide: Finding the Perfect Fit
A comprehensive guide to gaylord box dimensions, helping you select the ideal size for your storage and shipping needs.
10 Tips for Proper Gaylord Box Storage and Handling
Maximize the lifespan of your gaylord boxes with these expert storage and handling recommendations.
Improving Warehouse Efficiency with Gaylord Boxes
Strategies for using gaylord boxes to optimize warehouse space, improve picking operations, and streamline inventory management.
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