Container fit estimator
Enter your total cargo volume to see which container types may hold it. This is a rough guide, not a load plan. Real loading depends on package shape, stacking, gaps and weight limits. Use it to start the conversation, then let us check the details before you book.
Container fit estimator
How it works
Add up the volume of your cargo in cubic metres (CBM). Use the CBM calculator. Then compare the total with the typical usable volume of each container. Usable volume is less than the internal volume, because of gaps, pallet shapes and the door end. As a rough planning figure, about 80 to 85 percent of internal volume is usable with well-packed cartons, and less with odd shapes.
| Container | Typical internal CBM | Rough usable CBM |
|---|---|---|
| 20 ft standard | about 33 | about 28 |
| 40 ft standard | about 67 | about 57 |
| 40 ft high cube | about 76 | about 65 |
Then check the weight. The cargo weight must be under the container's payload, typically about 21 to 28 tonnes depending on the box and carrier. Check the payload on your booking. See container sizes.
Worked example
Your cargo is 45 CBM and weighs 12,000 kg.
- A 20 ft container: usable volume is about 28 CBM, so 45 CBM does not fit.
- A 40 ft container: usable volume is about 57 CBM, so 45 CBM is likely to fit.
- Weight: 12,000 kg is well within a typical payload.
- Result: one 40 ft container looks likely, so ask for a quote on that, and compare with two 20 ft boxes.
If the cargo were 9 CBM instead, an LCL shipment may be cheaper than a full box. See FCL vs LCL.
Limits
- It is a rough guide only. It does not draw a load plan.
- Tall, long or odd-shaped pieces may not fit even when the total volume does.
- It does not cover reefers, open tops or flat racks. Ask us about those.