Container Load Calculator
Enter your cargo details and container type to calculate the number of containers required, volume utilisation %, total weight, and remaining space. Supports 20ft, 40ft, 40ft High Cube and 45ft High Cube containers. Enter carton dimensions, pallet CBM, or total cargo CBM.
Select a container type and enter your cargo details to estimate utilisation, containers required, and remaining space. Works with carton dimensions, pallet CBM, or a known total CBM.
Formula
Utilisation % = Cargo CBM ÷ Container CBM × 100 | Containers Required = ⌈Cargo CBM ÷ Container CBM⌉ (or ⌈Total Weight ÷ Max Payload⌉ if weight-limited)
Container load planning compares cargo volume (in m³) against the container's usable internal volume. The number of containers required is the ceiling of cargo CBM divided by container CBM. When cargo weight would exceed the container's max payload before volume is exhausted, the weight constraint determines the container count instead.
Worked Example
200 cartons × 0.096 m³ each = 19.2 m³ total. Total weight 3,000 kg. Loading into a 40ft GP container (52.4 m³, max 26,500 kg).
Cargo CBM = 200 × (0.6 × 0.4 × 0.4) = 19.2 m³
Containers required (volume) = ⌈19.2 ÷ 52.4⌉ = 1
Volume utilisation = 19.2 ÷ 52.4 × 100 = 36.6%
Remaining space = 52.4 − 19.2 = 33.2 m³
Weight utilisation = 3,000 ÷ 26,500 × 100 = 11.3%
At 36.6% volume utilisation, there is room to consolidate additional cargo. Consider LCL shipping or adding compatible product lines to improve per-unit freight cost.
Use this in your workflow
Calculate carton CBM first with the CBM Calculator, then use the total CBM here to plan container count. Use the Container Loading Calculator for a unit-by-unit fill estimate with layer counts. Use the Pallet Calculator to determine pallet count and CBM before entering pallets here. Browse all Free Business Calculators.
When to use this calculator
- →Estimating how many FCL containers a shipment will require before requesting a freight quote
- →Checking whether 20ft or 40ft is more cost-effective for a given cargo volume and weight
- →Identifying low utilisation shipments where LCL consolidation may be more economical
- →Planning whether additional SKUs or a production run increase can be consolidated into an existing container
Container size reference
| Container | Usable CBM |
|---|---|
| 20ft Standard GP | 25.4 m³ |
| 40ft Standard GP | 52.4 m³ |
| 40ft High Cube HC | 67.7 m³ |
| 45ft High Cube HC | 76.3 m³ |
Internal dimensions and payload limits are typical figures — actual container specs vary by manufacturer, age, and condition. Confirm with your freight forwarder or shipping line before booking.
Limitations
This calculator uses standard published container internal volumes and does not account for dunnage, blocking, bracing, or irregular carton fit. Effective utilisation is typically 85–90% of theoretical volume. Container specifications vary by carrier and condition — always confirm with your freight forwarder. Weight limits shown are indicative payload limits — actual limits vary by carrier, route, and port equipment. These results are for planning purposes only.
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Frequently asked questions
How many CBM is a 20ft container?
A standard 20ft GP container has approximately 25.4 m³ of usable internal volume. Effective loading volume is typically 10–15% lower due to dunnage and irregular carton fit.
How many CBM is a 40ft container?
A standard 40ft GP container has approximately 52.4 m³. A 40ft High Cube has approximately 67.7 m³ due to extra internal height. The HC is preferred for bulky, lightweight cargo.
What is container utilisation?
Container utilisation is the % of usable volume occupied by cargo. 85–95% is typically good for FCL. Below 60% may make LCL more cost-effective.
What is the maximum weight for a 40ft container?
Typically around 26,500 kg payload. Always confirm the specific container tare weight and the shipping line's route-specific weight limits.
When should I use FCL vs LCL?
FCL is generally more cost-effective above 15–20 m³ on most routes, and whenever cargo is fragile, high-value, or time-sensitive. LCL is better for smaller volumes with flexible departure schedules.
Does this account for dunnage and bracing?
No. The calculator uses theoretical internal container volume. In practice, effective utilisation is 85–90% of theoretical. Your freight forwarder or loading team can advise on specific cargo.