Container loading questions, answered
Understand what the calculator checks, what its results mean and what to verify before loading.
How do I calculate how many boxes fit in a container?
Start with the packed outside dimensions and gross weight of each box. A fixed-orientation grid is floor(container length ÷ box length) × floor(container width ÷ box width) × floor(usable height ÷ box height). Then apply payload, permitted rotation, stacking limits and clearance. The planner searches additional arrangements and checks the resulting coordinates.
Why is container CBM divided by carton CBM not the answer?
That division gives a volume upper bound. It cannot show whether whole cartons fit across the width, whether an extra layer fits, or whether payload is exceeded. For mixed cartons, the leftover spaces also matter. Use CBM for an initial check and a geometric layout for the loading estimate.
What is the difference between capacity and order mode?
Capacity mode estimates a feasible quantity of one cargo type. Order mode takes your requested quantities for several cargo types and reports loaded and unplaced units. Order mode does not automatically purchase or book additional containers.
Does the calculator guarantee the maximum possible load?
No. It searches floor partitions with vertical stacks of the same cargo type. Every returned layout is checked against the model constraints, but the search does not prove a global maximum. A different packing method may find another arrangement.
Can I mix different box sizes and weights?
Yes, in order mode. Give each cargo type its own dimensions, quantity, gross weight, permitted rotation and stacking limits. The current model places same-type vertical stacks on the floor; it does not stack one SKU on top of another.
Are 20GP, 40GP and 40HQ dimensions exact for every container?
No. They are editable planning presets. Equipment differs by manufacturer and specification. Confirm internal dimensions, payload and door openings with the carrier or equipment provider before using a layout for an actual shipment.
Does a 3D arrangement prove that the cargo can be loaded safely?
No. The tool checks its geometric and weight constraints. It does not calculate packaging compression strength, cargo securing, axle loads, doorway traversal or a physical loading sequence. Review those separately with the people responsible for packing and transport.
Can I plan pallets with this tool?
You can model each loaded pallet as a rectangular unit using its full outside dimensions and gross weight. For non-stackable pallets set one layer. The calculator does not design the cartons on a pallet or verify forklift access and securing.
Can I export and reopen a loading plan?
Yes. Download a project JSON to preserve inputs and calculated coordinates, a CSV for the item summary, or use the print view for a report or PDF. A saved project is validated when reopened. Download backups before clearing browser data or changing devices.
Do I need an account, and where does my cargo data go?
No account is required. Calculation, drafts and the product library run in your browser. Usage and performance statistics are collected separately; cargo names, dimensions and project contents are not sent in those event payloads. See the data and privacy page for the current details.