GS1 Germany Launches Project “Pallet Loading Heights”

With the project “Pallet Loading Heights“, GS1 Germany, in collaboration with 11 companies from industry and trade, initiates the step towards harmonizing logistical standards in Germany and Europe. The goal is to analyze the existing national standard for pallet loading heights and align it with the European standard EUL1 (1200 mm) to unlock efficiency potentials along the entire supply chain.

(Köln) Since 1985, the German FMCG sector has predominantly used the pallet loading height CCG1 (1050 mm). However, in comparison to Europe, the loading height EUL1 (1200 mm) has established itself as the standard. This allows for a more efficient use of transport and storage capacities. The currently differing standards lead to inefficiencies in logistics, data management, and goods flow, necessitating a realignment. “With this project, we are laying the foundation to eliminate inefficiencies and future-proof the supply chain. A common European standard is the key to more transparency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness,” explains Stefan Thomas, Senior Manager Supply Chain Management at GS1 Germany.

Project Pallet Loading Heights Aims to Optimize Processes and Ensure Future Viability

As part of the project, GS1 Germany, together with companies such as Nestlé, Mondelez International, Oetker, dm, Beiersdorf, and others, conducts a comprehensive analysis of the current situation. Relevant processes, data flows, systems, and master data are examined in particular. Insights from bilateral practical tests between industry and trade provide additional clues to existing hurdles and optimization potentials. Based on this, a concrete catalog of measures will be developed that considers both the requirements for the adjusted pallet loading heights and the efficiency increase in supply chain processes. “Adjusting the pallet height to 1.20 meters often increases vehicle utilization and thus contributes to less truck traffic and CO₂ reduction,” says Andreas Heithoff, Head of Warehousing and Distribution at Beiersdorf.

Data Management and Transition Strategy

Another focus is on developing a data management concept that enables the representation of various loading height variants and ensures data consistency across company boundaries. Finally, a strategy for the gradual introduction of the new standard EUL1 will be defined. This strategy will be developed based on scenarios. “By introducing the adjustment of pallet loading heights from CCG1 to EUL1, we are setting an important milestone in Germany to align uniformly across Europe. This measure helps to better utilize trucks, use resources more efficiently, and thus operate more sustainably in the market,” explains André Arnshoff, Customer Innovation Manager DACH at Mondelez International. In the end, a guideline for practical implementation and a joint position paper from the participating companies, which describes the framework for a future transition scenario, will be created.

Photo: © GS1 Germany