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Container load calculator: how many containers do I need?

Work out how many 20ft, 40ft or 40HC containers your cargo needs, and whether volume or payload is the limit.

Methodology & Quick Reference

Divide your total cargo volume by the container's usable capacity — about 85% of its internal cube — then check the result against the container's maximum payload. A 20ft holds 33.2 m³ and 28,200 kg; a 40HC holds 76.4 m³ and 26,460 kg. Whichever limit is hit first sets the number of containers.

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Input Parameters

%

Nobody fills a box to 100%. 85% is a realistic planning figure for mixed cartons.

Cargo dimensions
L (cm)W (cm)H (cm)QtyWt (kg)

Add one line per carton, pallet or crate type. Dimensions are per piece.

Calculation ResultsAwaiting Input
calculate

Enter your shipment details on the left, then click Calculate to see instant results.

Calculation Formula

Containers = max( total CBM ÷ (capacity × stuffing %), total kg ÷ max payload )

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