Container Loading Calculator
How many cartons or pallets fit in a 20GP / 40GP / 40HQ / 45HQ container? Enter your packing details to get the loading quantity, total weight and volume utilisation.
1 · Container
2 · Cargo
Allow rotation:
Pallets: floor fit × stacking layers, limited by payload
Typical container dimensions
| Type | Internal L × W × H | Capacity | Typical max payload |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20GP (20 ft standard) | 5,898 × 2,352 × 2,393 mm | 33.2 CBM | ≈ 21,700 kg |
| 40GP (40 ft standard) | 12,032 × 2,352 × 2,393 mm | 67.7 CBM | ≈ 26,500 kg |
| 40HQ (40 ft high cube) | 12,032 × 2,352 × 2,698 mm | 76.4 CBM | ≈ 26,500 kg |
| 45HQ (45 ft high cube) | 13,556 × 2,352 × 2,698 mm | 86.1 CBM | ≈ 27,600 kg |
Payload limits vary by carrier, road regulations and country — always confirm with your forwarder before finalising.
Frequently asked questions
How many cartons fit in a 20GP container?
Divide the carton volume into 33.2 CBM for a rough floor: a 600 × 400 × 300 mm carton (0.072 CBM) is about 461 cartons by pure volume — the real figure depends on how the cartons nest and on the weight limit. Our calculator computes the best orientation packing, then applies your payload limit.
Which container should I choose — 20GP, 40GP or 40HQ?
Choose by volume first: 20GP ≈ 33 CBM, 40GP ≈ 68 CBM, 40HQ ≈ 76 CBM. If your cargo is light but bulky, step up to the next size (or 40HQ) before considering a second 20GP; if it’s heavy, the payload limit usually decides.
Cartons or pallets — which loads better?
Loose cartons almost always load more per container. Pallets are faster to handle and protect the goods; typical palletised loads use 1,400–1,600 mm high pallets in the 2,393 mm-high 20GP and up to 2,600 mm cargo height in a 40HQ.
Why is the real loading quantity lower than the calculated maximum?
Theoretical packing assumes perfect stacking: real loading loses space to irregular cartons, dunnage, doors and gaps. We default to a 90% efficiency figure, which usually gets close to what the warehouse can actually load.
Can you calculate the loading for my shipment?
Yes — send us your carton or pallet dimensions and total quantity and we will confirm the container size, loading plan and shipping weight with the quotation.
Planning a shipment?
Send us your carton/pallet data — we confirm the container size and prepare the packing list with your order.
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