We slot everything around 48x40, but what’s the actual historical reason that size became the standard? We run 18 aisles with 9 bays each, and pallet fit drives inventory density and crew travel paths, so I’m curious if there was a specific industry push or just gradual convergence.
Two 48s fit 96" trailers; GMA locked it in the ’60s — 26 pallets/53’ — railcars too. Source: Pallet - Wikipedia.
Agree on " — railcars too. Source: Pallet — Wikipedia." That mattered, but what really cemented 48x40 in my last DC was case patterning and 96" rack beams that favor two 48" lengths; when we trialed 42x42 in beverage we gained pick density but lost trailer cube and crossdock speed. If you’re curious, A/B one lane for a week and log trailer utilization and touches — want to try that?