How the calculator fills the container
For each allowed orientation of the box, the calculator divides the container's inside length, width and height by the box dimensions, rounds each down to whole boxes and multiplies:
n = ⌊Lc ÷ l⌋ · ⌊Wc ÷ w⌋ · ⌊Hc ÷ h⌋
It keeps the best orientation, then checks that the total weight stays within the container's payload. If the weight limit is reached first, it shows the lower number.
Container dimensions and payload
| Container | Inside L × W × H (m) | Volume | Typical max. payload |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 ft standard | 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 | 33.2 m³ | 28,200 kg |
| 40 ft standard | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 | 67.7 m³ | 26,700 kg |
| 40 ft high cube | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.70 | 76.4 m³ | 26,500 kg |
Payload varies by container. The limit printed on the door governs, and road weight limits in the origin and destination country can be lower.
Worked example
Cartons of 60 × 40 × 40 cm weighing 20 kg each fit 9 × 5 × 5 = 225 times into a 20 ft container. Together they weigh 4,500 kg and use 65 % of the space; the rest is lost to gaps the cartons cannot fill.
Getting more into the box
- Choose carton sizes that divide the container's inside width (2.35 m) and height without large gaps.
- Mix orientations: a few rows turned sideways often fill the space near the door.
- Euro pallets (120 × 80 cm) fit 11 in a 20 ft and 23 to 24 in a 40 ft container on the floor when planners mix orientations. Industrial pallets (120 × 100 cm) fit 10 and 21.
- Heavy goods reach the payload limit long before the space is full. Spread the weight evenly along the floor.