When should I use a 20ft vs 40ft container?

A 20DC makes sense when your cargo is heavy and dense — it hits the 28,000kg payload limit before filling the 33 CBM volume. A 40DC or 40HC is better for bulky, lighter cargo where you need volume. The 40HC adds 8 CBM of height over the standard 40DC, which matters for tall pallets or machinery. Hansatic calculates this for your specific cargo mix — the answer changes depending on what you're shipping.

What if my cargo doesn't fit in any standard container?

If your cargo exceeds a single container in volume, Hansatic's multi-container planning splits it automatically across two or more containers and optimizes each one separately. If individual items are oversized (out-of-gauge), they require flat rack or open-top containers — dimensions for those are also available in Hansatic.

Can I use this for trailer sizing as well?

Yes. Hansatic supports 16 trailer types alongside standard containers. If you're deciding between a standard curtainsider and a mega trailer, or between a 40ft and 53ft dry van, the same sizing logic applies — enter your cargo, compare utilization across trailer types, and pick the one that fits without overbooking space you don't need.

Container Size Calculator

Stop Overbooking. Find the Right Container Size for Your Cargo.

Enter your cargo dimensions and quantities — Hansatic shows you exactly which container fits it, at what utilization, and whether you can save money by stepping down to a smaller size. Takes under two minutes.

Find the Right Container Size

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How the Container Size Calculator Works

Enter your cargo

Add each item with dimensions, weight, and quantity. You don't need exact figures to start — rough dimensions get you a reliable answer. Hansatic handles the geometry; you focus on the cargo.

See how it fits across container sizes

Hansatic auto-arranges your cargo in a 20DC first. If it doesn't fit, it steps up to 40DC, then 40HC. You see volume utilization and weight utilization for each size — so you know not just whether it fits, but how efficiently.

Identify the optimal size

The right container is the smallest one where your cargo fits within both volume and weight limits at a utilization you're comfortable with. Hansatic highlights the fit — 95% utilization in a 20DC beats 45% utilization in a 40DC on freight cost every time.

Lock in your booking with confidence

Export the load plan as proof of fit for your freight forwarder, or share the link with your logistics team. You go into the booking knowing exactly what size you need and why — no surprises at the stuffing warehouse.

Your next load, perfectly planned.

Start free. No credit card. No install.

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