What makes up the price of pallet transport
The price to transport a single pallet is not a fixed rate — it results from a combination of factors. The most important are the distance between the loading and unloading points, the weight and dimensions of the shipment, the number of pallets and the type of vehicle required. It also matters whether the transport is domestic or international and how accessible both addresses are.
That is why an estimate is best obtained using a calculator that takes these inputs into account at once. An exact, binding quote is then prepared individually, usually within 30 minutes of the enquiry.
The main price factors
Distance is the foundation — the longer the route, the higher the cost of fuel, tolls and driver time. Weight and volume decide how much space the shipment takes up in the vehicle; for groupage transport the so-called loading metre is calculated. The number of pallets moves the shipment from groupage to full-truckload, where renting the whole vehicle pays off. The vehicle type — from a van through a rigid truck to a semi-trailer — is chosen according to weight, volume and deadline.
Surcharges that raise the price
Surcharges for specific requirements may be added to the base price. Each of these requirements is legitimate; it is simply worth planning for them in advance.
- tail lift – for unloading without a dock,
- express or fixed time – the vehicle carries only your shipment or arrives at an exact hour,
- waiting time beyond the agreed loading or unloading time,
- non-stackable goods – they take the full floor position,
- refrigeration – a reefer with temperature control,
- hard-to-reach locations – city centres, pedestrian zones, building sites, islands.
Which mode for how many pallets
| Euro pallets | Usual solution |
|---|---|
| 1–3 | groupage, or a van if urgent |
| 4–10 | groupage or a curtain-sided van |
| 11–18 | partial truckload or a rigid truck |
| 19–33 | full truck (FTL) |
Work out loading metres in the LDM calculator; the difference between groupage and a full truck is explained in FTL vs LTL.
How to save on pallet transport
The most effective step is choosing the right transport mode. If you only have a few pallets, groupage transport is usually cheaper than ordering a whole vehicle. Flexibility on the date also helps — if you are not tied to a specific day, the shipment can be combined more efficiently with others. It also pays to prepare the pallet properly: a stable, wrapped and labelled shipment reduces the risk of damage and delay. For regular transports, a framework agreement with better terms can be arranged.
How to get an exact price
You can get a rough estimate in moments via the price calculation on our website. For a binding quote, simply send us an enquiry with the loading and unloading addresses, the number and dimensions of the pallets and the required date — we usually reply within 30 minutes. Prices are shown excl. VAT. If anything is unclear, we will advise on the choice of vehicle and transport mode so that the result makes sense in both price and time.
Related services: Pallet transport · Express transport