Container load calculator
How many of your cartons fit in a 20ft, 40ft or 40ft high cube container, whether weight or space runs out first, and how many containers the order needs.
How it works
The calculator tries every way of turning the carton (or only the two upright ones if it must stay this side up) and finds how many fit in the container's internal dimensions with straight rows and columns. Real loading is never perfect, so the realistic figure takes about 90% of that. Then it checks weight: if your cartons are heavy, you hit the cargo limit before the container is full.
Internal dimensions used
- 20ft: 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m, about 33 CBM
- 40ft: 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 m, about 67 CBM
- 40ft high cube: 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.69 m, about 76 CBM
Dimensions vary slightly by container. Ask your forwarder for a load plan before you confirm a large order.
To turn this into a cost per unit, use the landed cost calculator. For the background on who pays the freight, read FOB vs DDP.
Frequently asked questions
How many cartons fit in a 20ft container?
It depends on the carton. A 20ft container holds about 33 CBM internally, and a realistic load uses 25 to 28 CBM. Divide that by your carton volume for a rough count, then check it here.
When is LCL cheaper than a full container?
Usually below about 15 CBM. Between 15 and 20 CBM, get both quotes; a 20ft container is often cheaper and faster through the port.
What is the weight limit of a container?
A 20ft container is rated for over 25,000 kg of cargo and a 40ft for about 26,500 kg, but road weight limits often cap the practical load lower. In the US, around 17,000 to 20,000 kg is typical for a 20ft without special permits.
Is my data stored?
No. The calculation runs in your browser. Nothing is sent anywhere unless you choose to download the spreadsheet, in which case only your email address and the headline result are sent to us.