Container Loading Calculator
A fast estimate of how many identical cartons fit in a shipping container, by the best single carton orientation.
Usable 5.9 × 2.35 × 2.39 m · ~33 m³
Best single-orientation grid — an estimate, not a 3D load plan. Mixed stacking can fit more.
How the estimate works
For each of a carton's six orientations we fit a simple grid into the container's usable length, width and height, and keep the orientation that holds the most. That grid count is realistic for uniform cartons stacked the same way up.
This is a planning estimate, not a 3D load plan. Real loading mixes orientations and accounts for door openings, weight limits and pallet bases — so treat the number as an upper-middle guide, then confirm with your packer.
Usable container sizes
We use typical loadable interiors: a 20ft at about 33 m³, a 40ft at 67 m³, a 40ft High Cube at 76 m³ and a 45ft High Cube at 86 m³. The "volume ceiling" figure is what would fit if cartons poured like liquid — useful only as an absolute maximum.
Frequently asked questions
How many boxes fit in a 20ft container?
It depends entirely on box size. A 20ft has about 33 m³ of usable space; divide that by your carton volume for a ceiling, then use the orientation estimate above for a realistic figure.
Why is the orientation estimate lower than the volume ceiling?
The volume ceiling ignores geometry — it assumes zero wasted space. The orientation estimate respects that whole cartons must fit along each dimension, which always leaves some gaps.
Does this do 3D bin packing?
No. It is a deliberately simple orientation-grid estimate. For exact mixed-orientation load plans, use a dedicated 3D container loading tool.