Pallet & Container Loading Calculator
Work out how many boxes fit on a pallet or in a 20 ft or 40 ft shipping container.
About the Pallet & Container Loading Calculator
Boxes are stacked in a simple grid, trying each allowed orientation and keeping the one that fits the most. Real loads can sometimes fit a few more with mixed (pinwheel) patterns, and must stay within the pallet's weight rating and the carrier's height limit. Container sizes are typical internal dimensions; they vary slightly by manufacturer.
The formula
Boxes = ⌊L ÷ l⌋ × ⌊W ÷ w⌋ × ⌊H ÷ h⌋ (best orientation)
Common pallet sizes
| Standard | Size | Used in |
|---|---|---|
| GMA | 48 × 40 in (1219 × 1016 mm) | US, Canada |
| EUR / EPAL | 1200 × 800 mm | Europe |
| ISO / UK | 1200 × 1000 mm | UK, Europe, Asia |
| Australian | 1165 × 1165 mm | Australia |
Worked example
Example: Boxes per pallet = 36
- Inputs: Pallet or container: US GMA 48 × 40 in; Box length: 440 mm; Box width: 330 mm; Box height: 280 mm; Box weight: 9 kg; Max load height incl. pallet: 2,000 mm; Max load weight: 1,100 kg; Boxes can be laid on their side: No (this way up).
- Formula: Boxes = ⌊L ÷ l⌋ × ⌊W ÷ w⌋ × ⌊H ÷ h⌋ (best orientation)
- Result: Boxes per pallet = 36
- Boxes per layer: 6
- Layers: 6
- Box orientation (L × W × H): 440 × 330 × 280 mm
Questions people ask
How high can a pallet be?
Often 1.8–2.2 m including the pallet; check with your carrier.
Why fewer boxes than the volume suggests?
Gaps where boxes don't divide the pallet evenly are wasted.