📖 Overview
This calculator estimates unit capacity for pallet and container combinations with density and floor loading checks.
It helps logistics planning before booking freight.
🧪 Example Scenarios
Use these default and higher-pressure example inputs to explore how sensitive this calculator is before using your real numbers.
| Input | Base Case | Higher Pressure Case |
|---|---|---|
| Box Length (in) | 14 | 16.1 |
| Box Width (in) | 10 | 11.5 |
| Box Height (in) | 8 | 9.2 |
| Box Weight (lb) | 9 | 10.35 |
| Config Code (1 Std20 2 Std40HQ 3 Euro20 4 Euro40HQ) | 2 | 2.3 |
⚙️ How It Works
Estimates carton capacity for pallet and container configurations using orientation fitting stack limits and simple crush constraints.
The Formula
Total Units = Pallets Per Container × Boxes Per Layer × Stack Layers
| Box L/W/H | Outer carton dimensions in inches |
| Box Weight | Used for crush-based layer cap |
| Config Code | Selects pallet footprint and container dimensions |
| Layer Fit | Best orientation fit on pallet top |
| Stack Layers | Limited by height and crush threshold |
💡This calculator is scenario-based. Better input quality leads to better decision quality.
Quick Reference
| Config | Pallet Footprint | Container Type | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 40x48 | 20 ft | US domestic mix |
| 2 | 40x48 | 40 ft HQ | High-volume US mix |
| 3 | Euro | 20 ft | EU palletized flows |
| 4 | Euro | 40 ft HQ | High-volume EU flows |
When To Use This
- Use this tool when you need a fast decision during active planning or execution.
- Use this before committing money, time, or tradeoffs that are hard to reverse.
- Use this to compare options using the same assumptions across scenarios.
Edge Cases To Watch
- Results can be misleading if key inputs are missing, stale, or unrealistic.
- Very small or very large values may amplify rounding effects and interpretation risk.
- If assumptions change mid-decision, recalculate before acting.
Practical Tips
💡 Validate real pallet loading pattern with warehouse constraints.
💡 Use carton orientation tests before committing production packaging.
💡 Apply safety margins for load stability and handling damage risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Why include crush limit?
Heavy cartons can limit stack height before container height does.
❓ Is this a full 3D optimizer?
No. It is a fast planning approximation for early logistics decisions.