CONTAINER LOAD TOOL / How it works
How the loading planner works
Understand what the calculation checks, what the diagram means and which decisions still need your judgement.
1. Define the usable space
Container presets are reference values. Verify the actual internal length, width, height and allowed payload. Door clearance removes space at the door end; top clearance reduces usable height. These settings do not model the door opening or a loading path.
2. Search for a layout
The engine partitions the floor into rectangles and builds vertical stacks of the same cargo type. It tries permitted orientations and respects stack-height and layer limits. Capacity mode searches one cargo type; order mode tries to place the entered quantities.
3. Independently check the result
A separate geometric check verifies bounds, overlap, orientation, quantities, support and gross weight. It does not certify packaging strength, load securing, axle loads, lifting equipment or transport compliance.
4. Read the result correctly
Unplaced cargo means this search did not find a placement. A different arrangement may fit more. Balance indicators measure the cargo centre of gravity against the container centre. Animation illustrates the layout, not an approved loading sequence.
A small example you can verify
A 100 × 100 × 100 cm space can hold eight 50 × 50 × 50 cm boxes in a 2 × 2 × 2 arrangement, provided rotation, stacking and payload constraints allow it. A high volume percentage alone cannot establish physical feasibility.
Practical limits
This version accepts up to 30 cargo types and displays at most 5,000 placed units. It uses rectangular rigid boxes, full support within each stack and no overhang. It does not reuse empty space above shorter stacks for a different cargo type.
Sources and references
- CTU Code — packing guidanceInternational Maritime Organization
Background guidance on packing and securing cargo in cargo transport units; a separate reference from this tool’s geometric calculation.
- Container dimensions and payload referenceHapag-Lloyd
Equipment specifications to help interpret container dimensions and payload. Check the actual container and carrier requirements for your shipment.
These references provide background on container equipment and packing practice. They do not endorse this tool or certify a calculated plan. Confirm the specifications of the actual container before loading.