liminfoContainer Load Calculator
Free web tool: Container Load Calculator
Container: 590 x 235 x 239 cm, Max payload: 28,200 kg
Boxes/Layer
45
Layers
7
Total Boxes
315
Volume Util.
68.4%
Weight Util.
16.8%
About Container Load Calculator
The Container Load Calculator determines how many boxes of a given size can be loaded into a standard ISO shipping container. You select a container type (20ft Standard, 40ft Standard, or 40ft High Cube), enter the box dimensions in centimeters and the box weight in kilograms, and the tool immediately calculates the optimal number of boxes per layer, number of layers, total box count, volume utilization percentage, and weight utilization percentage. The calculator tries both orientations (length-first and width-first) and picks the one that fits more boxes per layer.
This tool is primarily used by logistics managers, freight forwarders, exporters, importers, and warehouse planners who need to quickly estimate container utilization before booking a shipment. Knowing the number of boxes that fit helps determine whether a less-than-container-load (LCL) or full-container-load (FCL) shipment is more economical, and helps optimize packing to reduce wasted space. The weight check ensures the calculated box count does not exceed the container's maximum payload capacity.
All calculations are performed in your browser using the actual interior dimensions of standard ISO containers: 20ft (590×235×239 cm, 28,200 kg payload), 40ft Standard (1203×235×239 cm, 28,800 kg payload), and 40ft High Cube (1203×235×269 cm, 28,800 kg payload). No server processing is required, and your data is never stored or transmitted. The interface is fully responsive and supports dark mode.
Key Features
- Supports 20ft Standard, 40ft Standard, and 40ft High Cube ISO container types
- Calculates optimal box orientation (length-first vs. width-first) for maximum per-layer count
- Shows boxes per layer, number of layers, and total box count
- Computes volume utilization as a percentage of container interior volume
- Computes weight utilization and automatically caps box count at payload limit
- Uses accurate ISO container interior dimensions and maximum payload values
- 100% client-side calculation — no data leaves your browser
- Instant real-time results as you change any input value
Frequently Asked Questions
What container types does this calculator support?
The calculator supports three standard ISO dry container types: 20ft Standard (590×235×239 cm interior, 28,200 kg payload), 40ft Standard (1203×235×239 cm, 28,800 kg payload), and 40ft High Cube (1203×235×269 cm, 28,800 kg payload). These are the most commonly used container sizes in international shipping.
How does the calculator determine the optimal box orientation?
The tool tries placing the box with its length aligned to the container length, and again with its width aligned to the container length. It selects whichever orientation fits more boxes per layer. This simple two-orientation check catches many common cases, though it does not perform full 3D bin-packing optimization.
What is volume utilization and why does it matter?
Volume utilization is the percentage of the container's interior volume actually occupied by boxes: (total boxes × box volume) / container volume × 100%. Higher utilization means less wasted space and lower cost per unit shipped. Industry best practice aims for 70–85% volume utilization in a well-packed container.
How is weight utilization calculated?
Weight utilization is (total boxes × box weight) / container max payload × 100%. If the calculated box count would exceed the container's payload limit, the tool automatically reduces the total to the maximum allowed by weight, and the weight utilization shows 100%. This prevents you from planning an overweight container.
Why is the actual box count sometimes less than expected?
Boxes are counted as whole units only — partial boxes are not counted. If the container dimensions do not divide evenly by the box dimension, some space along the walls is wasted. The calculator also applies the payload weight limit and reduces the count if needed. Real-world loading may also leave space for dunnage, strapping, and aisle access.
Does the calculator account for pallets or packaging material?
No, the calculator computes the maximum theoretical box count based on container interior dimensions and box dimensions only. If your boxes are on pallets, you should subtract the pallet height from the container height and use adjusted dimensions. Dunnage, void fill, and load bars are not accounted for.
What is the difference between a 40ft Standard and 40ft High Cube container?
Both have the same interior length (1203 cm) and width (235 cm), but the High Cube is 30 cm taller (269 cm vs. 239 cm interior height). This additional height allows one extra layer of boxes for taller cargo and is useful when shipping lightweight but bulky goods where volume utilization is the binding constraint rather than weight.
Is this calculator accurate enough for booking a real shipment?
The calculator provides a good first estimate using standard container interior dimensions and simple row-stacking logic. For a real shipment booking, confirm actual box dimensions, account for packaging tolerances, add clearance for load securing equipment, and verify the container dimensions with your shipping line, as actual interior dimensions can vary slightly by manufacturer.