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Container Loading Calculator Pro

Know Exactly How Many Cartons Fit Inside Any Shipping Container

Inputs

Uses the container selected in the Carton tab.

Built-in specs for common containers. Click Calculate to refresh using your carton size.

Compared against selected container payload.

Simple visual utilisation preview based on volume fill.

  • Do not exceed container payload or road limits.
  • Distribute weight evenly.
  • Protect fragile goods.
  • Reduce empty space to limit cargo shift.
  • Use pallets efficiently and secure loads.

Results

Container Volume (CBM)—
Max Cartons (fit)—
Max by Weight—
Limiting Max Cartons—
Volume Utilisation %—
Weight Utilisation %—
Max Pallets—
Weight Status—
Loading Efficiency

Loading Preview

Container Comparison

Type L×W×H (cm) Volume Payload Max Cartons Max Pallets

Volume Used vs Free

Weight Used vs Payload

Used
Payload

💡 Smart Logistics Insights

    🔮 What-If Analysis

    Carton size up
    Switch container

    What is CBM?

    Cubic metres — L×W×H in metres. Container capacity is often quoted in CBM.

    Payload

    Maximum cargo weight. Road limits may be lower than container rating.

    Stacking

    Non-stackable cartons use only one height layer — capacity drops sharply.

    Orientation

    Trying alternate orientations can improve fit along length, width and height.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How many CBM is a 20 FT?

    Typically about 28–33 CBM internal usable volume.

    How many CBM is a 40 FT?

    Around 55–67 CBM depending on standard vs high cube.

    What is high cube?

    Extra internal height for more volume.

    Why fewer cartons than volume suggests?

    Packing waste, door limits and stacking rules.

    Non-stackable cartons?

    Only one layer is counted for height.

    Does this include voids?

    Assumes solid cartons; real fill is often lower.

    Payload vs gross?

    Payload is cargo; tare is separate.

    Mix carton sizes?

    This tool assumes one size.

    Euro vs standard pallet?

    Euro 120×80 cm; standard often 120×100 cm.

    Floor load?

    Spread heavy loads; avoid point loads.

    Door vs internal height?

    Door is often slightly lower.

    Always use max payload?

    Confirm with carrier and road rules.

    Volumetric weight?

    More relevant to air freight charging.

    Fill 100% volume?

    Leave space for bracing when needed.

    How accurate?

    Planning estimate only.

    Students?

    Yes — teaches CBM and payload trade-offs.

    Weight or volume first?

    Bulky cargo hits volume; dense hits weight.

    Internal dimensions?

    Yes — typical internal measurements.

    Custom container?

    Enter your own L×W×H and payload.

    Pallet max exact?

    Estimate; door and aisles may reduce further.

    Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimated loading capacity based on internal container dimensions. Actual loading depends on packaging, stacking method, palletization, cargo restrictions and shipping line requirements.