Pallet Cages: Types, Sizes and Load Capacities Explained
Pallet cages are steel wire cages built on a pallet footprint, used to store, stack and move goods safely around warehouses, factories and distribution centres. Most fold flat when empty, stack when full and can be lifted by forklift or pallet truck.
This guide explains the main types of pallet cages, the standard sizes used in the UK and how much weight each type can carry, so you can choose the right cage for your operation.
What Is a Pallet Cage?
A pallet cage is a wire mesh container with four sides and a base sized to match a standard pallet. It turns an open pallet into a secure, stackable unit, so loose or awkward goods stay contained during storage and transport.
You may also hear a pallet cage called a cage pallet, wire pallet cage, metal pallet cage or pallet stillage. The names overlap, but they all describe the same basic idea: a rigid, forklift-friendly cage for unit loads. For a closer look at the benefits, read our guide to wire pallet cages.
Types of Pallet Cages
1. Folding (Collapsible) Wire Pallet Cages
Folding pallet cages are the most common type. The sides fold down onto the base, so an empty cage takes up a fraction of the space of a full one. This makes them ideal for return journeys and seasonal storage.
Our new folding wire pallet cage measures 1200 x 1000 x 1000mm, carries up to 800kg and weighs just 51.5kg empty. It has a half drop-down front gate and a bright zinc-plated (BZP) finish that resists corrosion. See how collapsible cages help at peak times in space-saving collapsible pallet cages.
2. Heavy Duty Pallet Cages
Heavy duty pallet cages use thicker wire and a stronger base for dense or heavy loads such as metal parts, tools and automotive components. Our refurbished heavy duty pallet cage is rated to 1500kg and offers both half and full drop-down front gates for easier loading.
3. Euro Pallet Cages
Euro pallet cages are built to the 1200 x 800mm Euro pallet footprint used across Europe and by many UK retailers. Our refurbished folding wire pallet cage is Euro sized at 1200 x 800 x 980mm with a 500kg load capacity.
4. Refurbished Pallet Cages
Refurbished pallet cages are used cages that have been inspected, repaired and restored to a clean, safe working condition. They do the same job as new cages for a lower price and keep good steel in use for longer. Not sure which to choose? Read new or refurbished pallet cage.
Pallet Cage Sizes and Load Capacities
Most pallet cages in the UK follow one of two pallet footprints: the UK standard 1200 x 1000mm and the Euro 1200 x 800mm. Height varies with the job, typically from around 900mm to 1000mm. The table below shows the pallet cages we currently supply.
| Pallet cage | Condition | Size (W x D x H) | Load capacity | Gate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refurbished Heavy Duty Pallet Cage | Refurbished | 1200 x 1000 x 890mm | 1500kg | Half and full drop-down |
| Folding Wire Pallet Cage | New | 1200 x 1000 x 1000mm | 800kg | Half drop-down |
| Refurbished Folding Wire Pallet Cage | Refurbished | 1200 x 800 x 980mm | 500kg | Half drop-down |
Always work to the rated load. The safe working load is set by the manufacturer and depends on the wire gauge, base design and stacking height. When cages are stacked, the bottom cage carries the weight of every cage above it, so check the stacking limit as well as the single-cage load.
Pallet Cage vs Pallet Stillage: What Is the Difference?
In day-to-day use the two terms are often swapped. Broadly, a pallet cage has full wire mesh sides on a pallet-sized base, while a pallet stillage can be any rigid metal frame for unit loads, including post pallets and solid-sided designs. If your goods are small or loose, choose mesh sides. If they are long, bulky or heavy, a post-style stillage may suit better. Pallet cages are also widely used for returns and reverse logistics.
Where Are Pallet Cages Used?
Warehousing and distribution. Pallet cages turn loose stock into stackable unit loads that fit racking and forklift workflows. Learn more about metal cages and pallets in the warehouse.
Manufacturing and automotive. Heavy duty cages hold parts and work-in-progress between production stages.
Retail and returns. Retailers use cage pallets to collect, sort and store returned goods before they go back into stock.
Seasonal storage. Folding cages collapse flat after peak periods, freeing up floor space.
How to Choose the Right Pallet Cage
Load. Pick a cage rated above your heaviest load, with headroom for stacking.
Footprint. Match the base to the pallets, racking and vehicles you already use: 1200 x 1000mm or 1200 x 800mm.
Access. A half drop-down gate suits hand picking; a full drop-down gate makes loading bulky items easier.
Storage. If cages travel back empty or sit idle off-peak, choose a folding design.
Identification. Add an engraved ID plate to track your fleet and reduce losses.
Budget. Refurbished cages give you the same function for less. Damaged cages can often be repaired instead of replaced.
Pallet Cage Repairs
A bent gate or broken hinge does not mean a cage has to be scrapped. Our pallet cage repairs service restores damaged cages to a safe working condition, either on site by our mobile engineers or at our repair centre. We can also re-spray cages in your company colours.
FAQ
What is a pallet cage?
A pallet cage is a steel wire mesh cage with a pallet-sized base. It keeps goods secure during storage and transport and can be lifted by forklift or pallet truck.
What size is a standard pallet cage?
In the UK, the most common pallet cage size is 1200 x 1000mm, matching the UK standard pallet. Euro pallet cages are 1200 x 800mm. Heights are usually around 900mm to 1000mm.
How much weight can a pallet cage hold?
It depends on the design. Our pallet cages range from 500kg for a Euro folding cage to 1500kg for a heavy duty cage. Always check the rated load and stacking limit.
Are pallet cages collapsible?
Most are. Folding pallet cages collapse flat when empty, saving space in storage and on return journeys.
What is the difference between a pallet cage and a cage pallet?
There is no real difference. “Cage pallet” and “pallet cage” are two names for the same product.
Can pallet cages be repaired?
Yes. Most damage, such as bent mesh, broken hinges or damaged gates, can be repaired on site or at our repair centre.
Find the Right Pallet Cages for Your Business
Distribution Maintenance supplies new and refurbished pallet cages, from Euro folding cages to 1500kg heavy duty models, along with a full repair service from our depots in Harlow and Grantham.
