Container Load Calculator
Work out how many cartons fit into a 20ft, 40ft or 40ft high cube container, and whether volume or payload is the limiting factor for your cargo.
Formula
Cartons per container = min(usable volume / volume per carton, payload limit / weight per carton)
Frequently asked questions
Why does my container hit the weight limit before it is full?
Dense cargo such as tiles, metals or liquids fills the payload allowance while leaving empty space. The container is then weight-limited rather than volume-limited.
What usable volume should I assume for a 20ft container?
A 20ft container has a nominal internal volume of roughly 33 CBM, but practical loading usually achieves 25 to 28 CBM once you allow for irregular cartons, stacking gaps and dunnage.
Do road weight limits affect container loading?
Yes. Even if the container payload allows more, national road axle limits can cap the gross mass you can move inland, so check the destination country rules for heavy cargo.