How to Pack a 20ft Container
Step-by-step loading guide - weight distribution, stacking rules, and securing techniques for a 20ft dry container
Internal dimensions
5.90m × 2.35m × 2.39m
Usable volume
33.2 m³
Max payload
28,180 kg
Tare weight
~2,200 kg
Max load height
2.39m internal height
Step-by-step packing guide
Plan before you load
Before opening the container doors, create a loading plan. List all cargo items, their dimensions, weights, and stackability. Calculate total CBM and total weight to confirm your cargo fits within the 33 CBM (20ft) or 68 CBM (40ft) capacity. Group items by weight class — heavy items must go on the floor near the front wall.
Inspect the container
Check the container for structural damage, holes, water ingress, and unusual odors before loading. Look at the floor condition — soft spots indicate rot or water damage. Check the door seals and locking rods operate smoothly. Shine a light inside with the doors closed to find any light leaks that indicate holes. Document any damage with photos before loading begins.
Load heaviest cargo first, near the front
Place the heaviest items on the floor at the front of the container (the wall-end, opposite the doors). This keeps the center of gravity low and forward, which is critical for stability during sea transport. Distribute weight evenly across the floor left-to-right. The maximum floor load for standard dry containers is typically 3,000 kg/m² — calculate this for dense cargo.
Interlock and stack in layers
Stack cargo in stable, interlocked layers like brickwork — never stack columns straight on top of each other. Each layer should be flat before starting the next. Check manufacturer stackability ratings for all cartons and pallets. Most corrugated cartons are rated for 5-8 layers depending on humidity. In the 2.39m internal height, you typically get one layer of standard pallets (1.2-1.5m loaded).
Fill voids to prevent cargo shift
Cargo shift during transit causes 80% of container damage claims. Fill all horizontal gaps with airbags, dunnage bags, foam blocks, or cardboard infill. The goal is zero movement — cargo should not slide more than a few centimeters in any direction. Use vertical void fill between the top of your cargo and the container ceiling to prevent toppling.
Secure and document
Once loading is complete, apply lashing straps to the container's lashing rings, use corner protectors to prevent strap damage, and install load bars across the door end. Photograph the final load from multiple angles before sealing. Record actual loaded weight for VGM compliance — this is legally required before vessel loading. Apply carrier seals and retain your loading photos for claim protection.
Weight distribution rules
40/60 front-to-back split
Distribute cargo so approximately 40% of the load weight is in the front half and 60% in the rear (door) half. This keeps the container balanced when lifted by crane spreader bars from the corner castings.
Even side-to-side
Weight must be evenly distributed left-to-right. A container that is significantly heavier on one side can tip during crane operations and can cause lashing failures on the vessel.
Low center of gravity
Heavy items always go on the floor. Never place a heavy item on top of a lighter one. A high center of gravity increases tipping risk during vessel rolling in heavy weather.
Floor load limits
Standard container floors are rated at approximately 3,000 kg/m². If you have very dense cargo (e.g. stone, machinery), calculate whether your load exceeds the floor rating for the contact area. Spread the load with dunnage boards if needed.
Loading Patterns Library
Optimize your container space with proven loading patterns for different cargo types
Column Stack Pattern
A simple and straightforward loading pattern with boxes stacked in vertical columns. Ideal for uniform cartons with good stacking strength.
Best For
- • Uniform, rigid cartons
- • Boxes with good stacking strength
- • When load stability is a priority
Efficiency
Pro Tips
- • Ensure columns are aligned vertically to maximize weight-bearing capacity of boxes
- • For added stability, consider plastic wrapping each column or adding corner protectors
- • Leave minimal gaps between columns to prevent shifting during transport
Interlocking Pattern
An advanced loading pattern where each layer alternates orientation, creating a more stable structure. This "brick-like" arrangement distributes weight more evenly and prevents collapse.
Best For
- • Cartons with moderate stacking strength
- • Medium to long distance shipping
- • When preventing collapse is critical
Efficiency
Pro Tips
- • Alternate the orientation of each layer by 90 degrees for maximum stability
- • Ensure boxes can support this load pattern - weaker boxes may crush despite interlocking
- • Creates better resistance against shifting during transit, reducing damage risk
Pinwheel Pattern
An efficient pattern where boxes are arranged in alternating orientations within the same layer, creating a pinwheel-like appearance. This maximizes space utilization and provides excellent stability.
Best For
- • Rectangular boxes with non-square dimensions
- • When maximum space utilization is needed
- • Shipments requiring both stability and efficiency
Efficiency
Pro Tips
- • Works best when box length is roughly twice its width (2:1 ratio)
- • Can improve stability and prevent shifting compared to simple stacking
- • For heavier goods, limit stack height and consider layer separation with slip sheets
Cargo Securing Techniques
Proper cargo securing is essential for safe and damage-free transport. Learn best practices for different cargo types and conditions.
Lashing & Tie-Down Techniques
Proper cargo lashing prevents movement during transport, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring safe delivery. Container ships can experience significant forces during transit, making secure cargo essential.
Understanding Lashing Points
Standard shipping containers come equipped with built-in lashing points in the floor, walls, and ceiling. These anchor points are designed to secure cargo with straps, ropes, or chains.
- • Floor lashing points can typically handle 2,000-5,000 kg of load
- • Wall and ceiling points usually have lower capacity (1,000-1,500 kg)
- • Always check the specific lashing point capacity in your container documentation
Effective Lashing Techniques
Diagonal Lashing
Straps run diagonally from the cargo to the lashing points, creating tension that prevents movement in multiple directions.
Loop Lashing
Straps form loops around the cargo and attach to lashing points on the same side, providing lateral stability.
Cross Lashing
Straps cross over the cargo in an X pattern, providing excellent stability against both lateral and longitudinal forces.
Direct Lashing
Straps connect directly from the cargo to the nearest lashing point, offering simple but effective restraint.
Pro Tips
- • Always use lashing points on opposite sides to create balanced tension
- • Check strap tension periodically during loading to account for settling
- • Use edge protectors where straps contact cargo edges to prevent damage
- • For heavy cargo, combine multiple lashing methods for redundancy
Essential Tie-Down Equipment
Lashing Straps
- • Breaking strength: 2,500-10,000 kg
- • Available in various lengths
- • Typically made of polyester
Tensioners & Ratchets
- • Working load limit: 500-5,000 kg
- • Look for smooth ratchet operation
- • Choose appropriate size for strap
Hooks & End Fittings
- • Claw hooks for lashing points
- • J-hooks for various attachments
- • Safety latches prevent disengagement
Container Packing - Frequently Asked Questions
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