The table set out below, and the notes to the table are intended as a general guideline only for container sizes and load volumes. Each consignment has unique dimensions and requirements, each destination country has its own regulatory framework for safety loads, and calculations will be specifically tailored according to the applicable parameters.
Container Size | External Dimensions | Internal Dimensions | Recommended Load Volume* | Container Payload** | |||||||||||||||||||
Loose Cartons | On Pallets | ||||||||||||||||||||||
20 foot |
|
|
26 CBM | 20 Pallets | 22,000 KGS | ||||||||||||||||||
40 foot |
|
|
56 CBM | 40 Pallets | 24,000 KGS | ||||||||||||||||||
40 foot High Cube |
|
|
64 CBM | 40 Pallets | 24,000 KGS |
Note: Both Volume and Weight factors need to be considered in determining the actual capacity of a container.
*Recommended Load Volume
- Loose cartons/floor loaded – there may be approximately + 5% variance on the cubic capacity depending on the sizes of the cartons and whether they can fit into the container or not.
- Pallets – number calculated based on pallet size of 40" x 48" with maximum height not exceeding 44" (110cm), stacked in two layers inside the container.
**Container Payload (maximum Permitted Weight)
- For some countries, the exporter may be prohibited from having that much payload where there exist legal limitations to the overall load of the vehicle.
- Here is an example:
Container payload allowed for importing to USA/Canada:
- 20': 17,000 kgs
- 40' & 40' High Cube: 19,000 kgs
Assume each pallet is 550 kgs, a 20-foot container can load all 20 pallets (20 pallets x 550 kgs = 11,000 kgs) without exceeding the maximum weight limit.
For a 40'/40' High Cube, only 34 pallets (34 pallets x 550 kgs = 18,700 kgs) are permitted to be put inside the container which is only 85% of the overall loading capacity.