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Container load calculator

Choose a container example, enter one carton specification and check the layout against doors, height and payload.

Your loading space

Start with an example

Hapag-Lloyd example dimensions. Equipment varies. This planner conservatively limits the whole loading envelope to the door width/height; enter the actual equipment limits.

Compare example container specifications

Hapag-Lloyd examples · cm / kg · checked 5 October 2026
Container	Inside L × W × H	Door W × H	Payload kg
20 ft dry container	590 × 235.2 × 239.5	234 × 229.2	28130
40 ft dry container	1203.2 × 235.2 × 239.5	234 × 229.2	28750
40 ft High Cube	1203.2 × 235 × 270	234 × 259.7	28600

These are equipment examples. Use the assigned unit’s specification and plate. The form remains editable after applying a preset.

DimensionsWeight

Inside / base lengthInside / base widthMaximum total heightPallet / base heightEmpty equipment weightMaximum gross weight

Door opening limits Optional

Door width · 0 = ignoreDoor height · 0 = ignore

Conservative mode: the entire load stays within the door width and height, not just the inside space.

One carton specification

All cartons in this plan have the same dimensions and weight.

Carton lengthCarton widthCarton heightPacked weight / cartonTotal cartons to load

Allow cartons to rest on their sides

Floor rotation is always allowed. Keep side rotation off for upright-only goods.

FORMULAS & ASSUMPTIONS

Container planning with actual limits

Read the methodology ↗

Compare inside space and access

20ft, 40ft and 40ft High Cube are published equipment examples. Door constraints apply to the whole loading envelope. Payload is gross limit minus tare. Replace example limits with the assigned equipment.

WORKED EXAMPLE / 20FT · DOOR LIMITS ON

100 × 100 × 50 cm upright cartons, 100 kg each.
10 per layer × 4 layers = 40 cartons.
250 cartons: 7 containers, 10 cartons on the last one

The supported layer pattern repeats upwards. No automatic clearance, mixed cargo, pallet placement, individual loading moves or load certification is included.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Before you use the result

Read the full guide

Are these dimensions the same for every container?

They are published Hapag-Lloyd equipment examples. Manufacturer, series, tare and payload vary; use the specification and plate of the assigned equipment.

Why is capacity lower with door limits on?

The whole plan stays within the smaller interior or door width and height. This conservative envelope can leave space unused; it does not simulate loading individual boxes through a door.

Does this calculator place pallets inside containers?

It plans identical rectangular cartons. A base height can reduce usable height, but pallet positions, mixed cartons and loading moves are not modelled.

Why is the High Cube width 235 cm?

The official example table gives 235 cm; its graphic gives 235.2 cm. We use the smaller table figure and retain the discrepancy in the source record.

Can I treat the displayed carton count as a certified load?

Check clearance, floor loading, stacking strength, distribution, securing and operating limits separately. The result is a limited geometric and payload plan.