How Many Pallets Fit in a Container? A Complete Guide to Container and Pallet Loading

The number of pallets that can be loaded into a container depends on multiple factors, including the size of the container, the size of the pallets, stacking height limits, loading methods, and pallet strength.

I. Container Sizes and Internal Capacity

• 20ft Container
  Internal dimensions: Length 5.9m × Width 2.35m × Height 2.39m
  Capacity: 33.2 CBM

• 40ft Container
  Internal dimensions: Length 12.03m × Width 2.35m × Height 2.39m
  Capacity: 67.7 CBM

• 40ft High Cube (HC)
  Internal dimensions: Length 12.03m × Width 2.35m × Height 2.69m
  Capacity: 76.4 CBM

• 45ft High Cube (HC)
  Internal dimensions: Length 13.56m × Width 2.35m × Height 2.69m
  Capacity: 86 CBM

II. Pallet Sizes and Loading Quantities

1. Standard Pallet (1200mm × 1000mm)

• 20ft container: 10–11 pallets (single layer, non-stacked)

• 40ft container: 21–22 pallets

• 40ft HC: Similar to 40ft but allows higher stacking

• 45ft HC: Around 24 pallets

2. Euro Pallet (1200mm × 800mm)

• 20ft container: 11–14 pallets

• 40ft container: 24–28 pallets

• 40ft HC & 45ft HC: Higher capacity with stacking

3. U.S. Standard Pallet (1219mm × 1016mm)

• 20ft container: 9–10 pallets

• 40ft container: 20–21 pallets

• 40ft HC & 45ft HC: More capacity due to height allowance

III. Key Considerations

• Stacking Height Limitations
  The maximum stacking height must not exceed the container’s internal height.

• Loading Methods
  Pallets may be placed lengthwise or widthwise depending on container-to-pallet ratio.

• Pallet Strength
  Ensure pallets can support the cargo weight, especially when stacking.

• Cargo Securing
  Use straps, airbags, or dunnage to prevent shifting or collapse during transport.

Conclusion

The number of pallets a container can hold varies depending on container type, pallet dimensions, stacking rules, and cargo safety requirements. In practice, careful calculation and planning are required to optimize container utilization.