What are H1 pallets? A compact overview for logistics and industry

H1 pallets play a central role wherever the highest hygiene, food safety and process safety requirements apply. They have established themselves as a standard in food, meat and fresh food logistics in particular, as they were developed specifically for the hygienic transport and storage of sensitive goods. Thanks to their standardized construction, food-safe materials and easy cleaning, H1 pallets are an integral part of modern supply chains. They are used primarily in the food industry, in slaughterhouses and cutting plants, in refrigerated and deep-freeze warehouses, and in pharmaceutical and hygiene logistics, where they ensure safe, efficient and standard-compliant processes.

Classification and definition of H1 pallets

H1 pallets are standardized plastic pallets that have been specially developed for use in hygiene-sensitive areas. They are made from food grade plastic and are approved for direct contact with unpackaged food. H1 pallets are characterized by their closed design, which prevents dirt, moisture or germs from entering and enables easy, residue-free cleaning.

H1 pallets are used primarily in the food industry, meat and fresh produce logistics, and in refrigerated and frozen areas. Thanks to their standardized dimensions, they are fully compatible with Europallet Logistics, Conveyor Technology and Automated Storage Systems. Compared to wooden pallets, H1 pallets meet significantly higher hygiene, cleanability and process safety requirements and are therefore considered an established standard in areas with strict hygiene and quality requirements.

Construction and material of H1 pallets

H1 pallets are made of high-quality, food-grade plastic, which is approved for direct contact with unpackaged food. The material used absorbs neither moisture nor odors and meets the high hygienic requirements of food, meat and pharmaceutical logistics. At the same time, the plastic is resistant to cleaning and disinfecting agents as well as temperature fluctuations in refrigerated and frozen areas.

A central feature of H1 pallets is the closed top surface. It prevents dirt, liquids or germs from penetrating cavities and enables quick and thorough cleaning. This ensures consistently high hygiene standards, which is particularly important in sensitive production and warehouse environments.

The robust construction ensures that H1 pallets retain their shape even during intensive use. They are designed for reusable use and reliably withstand mechanical loads caused by conveyor technology, high-bay storage or frequent stacking.

Thanks to their high dimensional stability and load capacity, H1 pallets are suitable for both manual and automated logistics processes. They provide uniform load distribution, minimize the risk of deformation and contribute to safe, efficient processes throughout the supply chain.

Standards and dimensions of H1 pallets

H1 pallets are clearly standardized and designed for standardized logistics processes. The basis is the euro pallet format, which allows them to be seamlessly integrated into existing storage, conveying and transport systems.

Typical technical data of H1 pallets:

• Standard size: 1,200 × 800 mm (euro pallet size)
• Weight: approx. 18-20 kg (depending on model)
• Dynamic load: up to approx. 1,250 kg
• Static load: up to approx. 5,000 kg

As a result of this standard, H1 pallets are fully compatible with conveyor technology, roller conveyors and automated storage systems. Their uniform construction and high-dimensional accuracy also make them suitable for high racks, which makes them particularly suitable for industrial applications and modern logistics environments.

What are H1 pallets used for?

H1 pallets are used wherever hygiene, cleanliness and process reliability play a central role. Thanks to their material, closed construction and standardized dimensions, they are suitable for various sensitive industries.

food industry

In the food industry, H1 pallets are used to transport and store unpackaged or packaged food. They meet the industry's high hygienic requirements, are easy to clean and support standardized production and logistics processes.

Meat and Fresh Food Logistics

H1 pallets are particularly common in slaughterhouses, cutting plants and fresh food stores. They enable the safe handling of meat, fish and other fresh products and contribute to compliance with strict hygiene requirements along the entire supply chain.

Refrigerated and deep-freeze areas

H1 pallets are temperature-resistant and retain their shape even at low temperatures. This makes them ideal for use in cold stores, frozen stores and refrigerated transport without becoming brittle or losing load capacity.

pharmaceutical and hygiene sectors

H1 pallets are also used in the pharmaceutical industry and in hygienically sensitive production environments. Clean surfaces, controllable cleaning and consistent quality are crucial here — requirements that H1 pallets meet reliably.

Benefits of H1 pallets

H1 pallets were developed specifically for hygienically demanding logistics environments and offer clear advantages over many other types of pallets. By using food-grade plastic, they meet high hygiene requirements and are suitable for direct contact with sensitive goods. The closed surface prevents dirt, moisture or germs from entering and makes H1 pallets easy and reliable to clean — both manually and in automated washing systems.

In addition, H1 pallets are durable and keep their shape. They retain their dimensional accuracy even with intensive use, frequent stacking and changing temperatures. These properties make them particularly economical in a reusable system, as they can be used over many cycles and offer consistent quality.

Difference between H1 pallets and other types of pallets

Compared to other types of pallets, H1 pallets differ primarily in their focus on hygiene, compliance with standards and reusability.

H1 pallets vs. wooden euro pallets

Wooden pallets are widely available and inexpensive, but only meet limited hygienic requirements. They can absorb moisture, split and are more difficult to clean. H1 plastic pallets, on the other hand, are more hygienic, more durable and better suited for food and fresh food logistics.

H1 pallets vs. H2 and H3 plastic pallets

H2 and H3 pallets are also made of plastic, but usually have a more open design or are designed for less sensitive areas of application. H1 pallets are characterized by their closed top surface, their suitability for direct contact with food and their higher standardization.

When which pallet is useful

Which pallet is used depends on the particular application. While wooden pallets may be sufficient for simple transport tasks, H1 pallets are the preferred choice in hygienically sensitive areas. H2 and H3 pallets offer an alternative for applications where plastic is in demand but do not have the highest hygiene requirements.

Cleaning, hygiene and HACCP suitability

H1 pallets are consistently designed for hygienic applications and meet central requirements of modern quality and hygiene concepts. Their smooth, closed surfaces prevent dirt, liquids or germs from settling and exclude hygienically critical cavities. This makes it possible to effectively prevent contamination.

Cleaning H1 pallets is easy and efficient. They can be cleaned both manually and in automated washing and disinfection systems. Thanks to the durable plastic surfaces, no residues remain, even when cleaned frequently with cleaning and disinfecting agents.

With these properties, H1 pallets support the implementation of HACCP concepts. They enable clearly defined cleaning processes, verifiable hygiene control and help to systematically minimize risks along the supply and processing chain.

Buy, rent or use used H1 pallets?

Whether H1 pallets are purchased, rented or used depends on the scope of use, the frequency of circulation and the logistical requirements.

• New purchase: maximum hygiene, full lifespan, ideal for long-term use
• Second-hand market: cost-effective alternative with tested, perfect condition
• Pooling & rental solutions: flexible when requirements change, no need to circulate your own pallets

Common questions about H1 pallets

Are H1 pallets food safe?

Yes, H1 pallets are made of approved plastic and are suitable for direct contact with food.

Are H1 pallets suitable for refrigerated and frozen areas?

Yes, they are temperature-resistant and retain their shape even at low temperatures.

How long do H1 pallets load?

When used properly and cleaned regularly, they are designed for many cycles in a reusable system.

Can H1 pallets be cleaned and reused?

Yes, they can be cleaned manually or by machine and are designed for permanent reusable use.