The Math of Maximization
To calculate your true container utilization rate, you must look beyond the physical dimensions. You need to account for “honeycombing”—the unusable gaps between packages.
Standard Container Capacity Reference
| Container Type | Internal Volume (CBM) | Effective Loading (CBM) | Max Payload (KG) |
| 20′ Standard | 33.2 | 25 – 28 | 28,000 |
| 40′ Standard | 67.7 | 55 – 58 | 26,000 |
| 40′ High Cube | 76.4 | 65 – 68 | 26,000 |
Three Steps to Reduce “Dead Space”
- Product Packaging Optimization: Reducing box size by even 1cm can increase total units per container by 5-8%.
- Palletization Strategy: Use heat-treated pallets that comply with ISPM 15 standards while minimizing footprint.
- Software Simulation: Use load-planning software to visualize the stack before the first box is moved.