Container Loading Calculator
Estimate identical carton capacity in a 20 ft, 40 ft or high cube container using editable internal dimensions.
Container loading estimate
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How it works
Nominal container length is not usable interior length. Begin with a reference preset, then confirm internal dimensions, door opening and payload against the particular equipment assigned to the shipment.
The engine evaluates six uniform rectangular carton orientations and applies the optional weight constraint. The selected grid reports positions lengthwise, positions widthwise and the number of layers, making the estimate easier to check.
A carton can fit in an interior grid but fail at the door. When opening dimensions are available, the result checks the selected cross-section and warns about a mismatch. Handling space and the path of entry still need separate review.
Formula
Simple fit count = floor(internal length ÷ box length) × floor(internal width ÷ box width) × floor(internal height ÷ box height)
Inputs are normalized before calculation. Results are rounded for display.Worked example
In a custom usable space of 6 × 2.4 × 2.4 m, 0.6 × 0.4 × 0.3 m cartons fit in a 10 × 6 × 8 grid: 480 cartons. At 20 kg each, the cargo would weigh 9,600 kg. A payload limit of 8,000 kg reduces capacity to 400 cartons.
Limitations and assumptions
- Actual internal dimensions and payload limits vary by equipment and manufacturer. Confirm your specific container before loading.
- This estimate uses uniform rectangular orientation. Mixed-orientation or advanced 3D packing may produce a different result.
- It excludes securing gaps, dunnage, floor-load restrictions, access aisles and the strength of stacked cartons.
Read the calculation disclaimer before relying on an estimate for a shipment.
Frequently asked questions
Should I divide container CBM by carton CBM?
That produces a volume-only upper bound, not a reliable fit count. Whole cartons must fit along all three dimensions, and payload and the door can impose further limits.
Does a 40 ft container carry twice the weight of a 20 ft container?
Do not assume so. Interior volume and allowable payload are different specifications. Confirm the payload of the assigned container and route.
Can I load several carton sizes together?
This calculator evaluates identical cartons in one uniform orientation. A mixed shipment needs a more detailed loading plan.