Small Pallet Delivery

When you’re only shipping a quarter of a pallet, you shouldn’t have to pay for a full truck's worth of space. Our quote engine compares small pallet delivery rates from the UK’s leading pallet networks to find you the most cost-effective option. As one of the original online parcel aggregators, we leverage our wholesale buying power to negotiate rates typically reserved for large-volume industrial shippers.

When you enter your dimensions into our quote tool, our system automatically identifies if your consignment qualifies as a Quarter or Mini pallet. From there, you’ll be presented with a range of options for small pallet shipping. Secure a price that reflects the exact amount of space your goods occupy on the vehicle with Parcel Broker.

What qualifies as a small pallet?

The term ‘small pallet’ generally refers to a shipment that doesn't require the full height or weight allowance of a standard truck slot. These are technically classified as Quarter Pallets or Mini Pallets. To qualify for cheaper small pallet delivery rates, your goods must typically fit within the following limits:

The base

The footprint shouldn’t exceed standard UK pallet dimensions (120cm x 100cm) or Euro pallet dimensions (120cm x 80cm). If your goods hang over the edges of the base, carriers will classify the shipment as ‘oversized’, and you will not be able to coordinate a small pallet delivery courier.

Quarter pallet

The most economical option for compact, heavy items. To qualify as a Quarter Pallet, your shipment must weigh no more than 250kg and have a maximum height of 60cm.

Half pallet

If your goods exceed the 60cm limit but don't require a full 2-metre space, you may need half pallet delivery: this service supports heavier, taller loads, allowing a maximum weight of 500kg and a maximum height of 100cm.

Please remember: the height limit applies to the total height of the shipment, including the wooden pallet base. You must measure from the ground to the very top of your goods.

The benefits of shipping via small pallets vs. multiple parcels

When you have a heavy consignment (e.g. ten boxes of stock, a gearbox, a large stack of brochures), your first instinct might be to book a standard courier service. However, sending multiple individual parcels can create a false sense of economy. The initial quote for several boxes might look competitive, but the reality is often riskier. Here’s why upgrading to small pallet delivery is smarter:

Decreased risk of damage

Standard parcels travel through sorting hubs. They may tumble down chutes and be manually lifted by drivers. A palletised shipment is mechanically handled using forklifts and pump trucks. It remains upright, static, and shrink-wrapped throughout the journey, and this drastically reduces the risk of drops.

Total consignment integrity

When you send ten separate boxes via a parcel carrier, they are often treated as ten separate ‘jobs’, which can lead to split deliveries: half your stock arrives on Tuesday and the rest on Thursday. With small pallet shipping, your entire shipment is strapped as a single unit.

Higher weight limits

Most standard parcel couriers enforce a strict weight limit of 30kg per box. If you’re shipping dense items, you risk surcharges or driver refusal if a box is slightly too heavy. A Quarter Pallet allows you to ship up to 250kg in a single consolidated load.

Save Money Sending, with ParcelBroker

At ParcelBroker, we pride ourselves on providing trustworthy international shipping at affordable prices. We ship to over 220 countries, working with the best couriers to help our customers send parcels safely. Whether it's a personal package for a friend or family member, or a business managing multiple shipments – Find out how ParcelBroker can help you.

Securing your small pallet for transit

Small pallets are compact, but they’re often denser and can be more ‘top-heavy’ than full-sized loads. In particular, they’re more prone to tipping if the weight isn't distributed correctly. To help a small pallet delivery courier transport your goods as safely as possible, follow our advice on preparation:

Centre the weight

Always place the heaviest items in the centre of the pallet base.

Eliminate overhang

If a box protrudes over the edge, it may act as a bumper for the pallet, absorbing shock or being crushed against the side of the truck or another pallet during transit.

Strap and wrap

Gravity alone won't hold your goods in place. You’ll want to use heavy-duty ratchet straps or banding to secure heavy items to the pallet wood itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I send a small pallet to a residential address?

Yes, we deliver small pallets to private homes across the UK.

Do I need to provide the pallet myself?

Yes. We offer a consolidation service, which means the driver arrives solely to collect the freight; they don’t carry spare pallets or packaging materials.

Is a 'Mini Pallet' the same as a 'quarter pallet'?

No, but both options are cost-effective for small pallet deliveries. A Quarter Pallet typically allows for a standard base (120x100cm) with a height up to 60cm and a weight up to 250kg. A Mini Pallet refers to consignments with a max height of 110cm and a maximum weight of 500kg.