A Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) pallet is a standard-sized pallet commonly used in the United States, primarily for the grocery and food industries. GMA pallets are designed to fit most automated systems, and their standardized dimensions allow for easy handling, stacking, and transport, making this type of pallet ideal for warehouse management, retail distribution, and logistics operations. Their widespread use helps streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve supply chain efficiency across various industries.

GMA pallets are a great option when standardization, compatibility, and efficiency are important. They are ideal for industries like grocery, food distribution, and retail, where a consistent size (48" x 40") is needed for easy handling and compatibility with automated systems.

There are five primary components that make up a GMA pallet:

Lead deckboards: Positioned at the ends of the pallet's top deck, these boards are more susceptible to damage due to their location. To improve strength and durability, they are often wider than other deckboards.

Interior deckboards: Located between the lead deckboards, these boards make up the central surface of the pallet’s top deck. They serve as the main load-bearing area, supporting and evenly distributing the weight of the goods placed on the pallet.

Stringer boards: Horizontal support beams that run the length of the pallet, positioned between the top and bottom deckboards, ensuring structural integrity and stability.

Stringer notches: Notched sections on the sides of the stringers that allow forklifts to lift the pallet from all four sides, enhancing its maneuverability.

Bottom deckboards: Wooden planks attached to the bottom of the pallet, offering extra support, stability, and protection for the load during storage and transit.

GMA pallets are the foundation of grocery and retail logistics, with new pallets delivering consistent quality and durability ideal for demanding, high-performance applications. Used GMA pallets—available in multiple grades—offer a cost-effective, environmentally friendly alternative.