Container Load Calculator
Estimate how many units fit in a sea container by volume. Pick the container type, enter the volume of one unit and a packing efficiency to allow for gaps, and see the usable volume and the number of units that fit.
How to calculate container load
- Choose the container type: 20ft, 40ft or 40ft high cube.
- Enter the volume of a single unit in cubic feet.
- Set a packing efficiency to allow for wasted space.
- Read the usable volume and the number of units that fit.
Examples
40ft container, 2 cu ft units
40ft, unit 2 cu ft, 80 percent efficiency
Usable 1912 cu ft, 956 units
20ft container, smaller units
20ft, unit 1.5 cu ft, 85 percent efficiency
Usable 996.2 cu ft, 664 units
Frequently asked questions
What container volumes does this use?
It uses nominal internal volumes of about 1172 cubic feet for a 20ft container, 2390 for a standard 40ft, and 2694 for a 40ft high cube. Actual capacity varies slightly by manufacturer and container age, so treat the figures as standard nominal values.
What is packing efficiency?
Packing efficiency is the share of the container volume you can actually use after gaps, bracing and irregular shapes. A common planning range is 70 to 85 percent. A lower efficiency leaves more empty space and reduces the unit count.
Does this account for weight limits?
No. This is a volume calculation only. Dense cargo can hit the container weight limit well before it fills the space, so always check the payload limit for your container and route as well.
Why use volume instead of stacking boxes exactly?
Volume gives a fast, carton-agnostic capacity estimate that works for mixed or irregular units. For a precise carton count by footprint and height, a box or pallet calculator that models orientations is a better fit.
Is my data stored?
No. The calculation runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you type is sent to a server or saved, so your unit volumes stay private on your device.
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