Understanding Container Loading Logic
Efficient cargo loading is critical for reducing shipping costs and minimizing the number of containers or trucks needed for a shipment. The MetricRig 3D Container Loader uses a bin-packing algorithm designed to maximize volume utilization while respecting rotation constraints and weight limits.
The interactive 3D visualization shows exactly how your cargo fits inside the container, with color-coded items, void space detection, and real-time weight tracking. Export your load plan as PDF or CSV for warehouse teams and shipping documentation.
How to Use This Tool
Define Your Cargo
Enter box dimensions (Length, Width, Height), weight, and quantity. Use 'Pallet Mode' for standard pallet footprints (US GMA, Euro, Euro 2).
Choose a Container
Select from Ocean containers (20ft, 40ft) or Trucks (10ft to 26ft). Each has specific internal dimensions and weight limits.
Calculate Load Plan
Click 'Calculate Load Plan'. The solver runs in a background Web Worker, processing layout permutations without blocking the UI.
Review & Export
Use the Visibility Control to toggle items. Check the Smart Load Dashboard for volume/weight stats. Export your plan as PDF or CSV.
Understanding Your Inputs
Box Dimensions (L × W × H)
External dimensions of each cargo item in your selected unit (inches/cm). Measure at the longest points.
Weight per Box
Individual box weight in lbs or kg. Total weight is tracked against container limits.
Quantity
Number of identical boxes to pack. The algorithm optimizes placement for all items.
Rotation Allowed
Whether boxes can be rotated to fit. Disable for items with "This Side Up" requirements.
Reading Your Results
Volume Utilization %
Percentage of container volume filled by cargo. 80%+ is good; 90%+ is excellent.
Weight Utilization %
Total cargo weight vs. container limit. Red warning if exceeding safe limits.
Items Packed vs. Total
How many items fit in the container. If not all fit, consider a larger container or second shipment.
Void Spaces
Red-highlighted empty areas in 3D view. Click to see exact dimensions for additional cargo.
Available Equipment
🚢 Ocean Freight
- • 20ft Standard (5.9m × 2.35m × 2.39m)
- • 40ft Standard (12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m)
🚚 Truck / Trailer
- • 10ft Box Truck (2.9m × 1.8m × 1.8m)
- • 15ft Box Truck (4.3m × 2.1m × 2.1m)
- • 20ft Box Truck (5.5m × 2.3m × 2.3m)
- • 26ft Box Truck (7.3m × 2.4m × 2.4m)
Box & Pallet Modes
Add custom boxes with dimensions, or choose standard pallet types (US GMA, Euro, Euro 2) for quick entry.
Weight Tracking
Real-time weight calculation with overweight warnings. Each container type has a defined weight limit.
Void Inspector
Click on any empty space in the 3D view to reveal its exact dimensions and potential for additional cargo.
Pro TipUse the Void Inspector
Click on red-highlighted void spaces in the 3D view to reveal their exact dimensions. This helps you find room for last-minute additions or identify if smaller boxes could fill gaps more efficiently.
Shipping Container Loading Data
What is it?
Container Load Optimization calculates the maximum number of boxes, pallets, or items that can physically fit inside standard intermodal shipping containers (20ft, 40ft, 40ft HC) without exceeding weight or volume limits.
The Formula
How to calculate: Container Internal Volume ÷ Package Volume (accounting for stacking limits and void space)
Industry Benchmarks
Frequently Asked Questions
A standard 40ft container can typically hold 20 standard US pallets (48" x 40") if loaded straight, or up to 21 if pinwheeled. A 20ft container can hold 10 standard US pallets.
CBM stands for Cubic Meters. It is the standard unit of measurement for freight volume globally. You calculate CBM by multiplying the length × width × height of a package in meters. Freight forwarders quote LTL ocean freight based on CBM.