How do I distribute weight in a container?

Place heaviest cargo on the floor at the front. Use a 40/60 front-to-back split.

How many pallets fit in a 20ft container?

Approximately 10 EUR pallets or 8 GMA pallets in a single layer.

Can I mix cargo types?

Yes, with restrictions. Never load odor-sensitive cargo with chemicals.

Do I need to submit a VGM?

Yes - VGM is required by SOLAS before vessel loading.

How to Pack a 20ft Container

Step-by-step loading guide - weight distribution, stacking rules, and securing techniques

Internal dims

Usable volume

Max payload

Tare weight

Max height

Drag to rotate · Scroll to zoom

Loading Guide

Step-by-step packing guide

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Weight Rules

Weight distribution rules

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

Space Usage:

★★★★★

Stability:

★★★★★

Loading Speed:

★★★★★

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

Space Usage:

★★★★★

Stability:

★★★★★

Loading Speed:

★★★★★

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

Space Usage:

★★★★★

Stability:

★★★★★

Loading Speed:

★★★★★

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

Block-and-Stack Mixed Cargo Pattern

A strategic approach for mixed cargo where items are arranged by weight, with the heaviest at the bottom and lightest at the top. Creates a stable foundation while optimizing space.

Best For

• Mixed shipments with varying item sizes
• LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments
• When items have different weight classifications

Efficiency

Space Usage:

★★★★★

Stability:

★★★★★

Complexity:

★★★★★

Pro Tips

• Create a stable base layer with heaviest items, ensuring weight is evenly distributed
• Fill gaps between large items with compatible smaller items to maximize space
• Reserve top layers for fragile or lightweight items that cannot support weight

Wall-and-Fill Mixed Cargo Pattern

A versatile loading approach that creates a wall of uniform items along one side, then fills the remaining space with mixed cargo. This provides structural support while allowing flexible utilization of space.

Best For

• Shipments with a mix of uniform and irregular items
• When cargo includes both palletized and loose items
• Achieving balance between stability and space utilization

Efficiency

Space Usage:

★★★★★

Stability:

★★★★★

Adaptability:

★★★★★

Pro Tips

• Create the wall with your most uniform and stable items that can bear weight
• Fill from bottom to top, with heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top
• Use dunnage or airbags to fill any remaining voids and prevent shifting

Zone Loading Pattern

A systematic approach to mixed cargo loading that divides the container into designated zones based on item characteristics. This creates a highly organized load that optimizes both stability and accessibility.

Best For

• Complex loads with diverse cargo types
• Multi-destination shipments requiring sequential unloading
• When cargo inventory tracking is important

Efficiency

Organization:

★★★★★

Accessibility:

★★★★★

Space Usage:

★★★★★

Pro Tips

• Plan zones based on weight, fragility, and unloading sequence
• Create a detailed zone map for easy reference during loading and unloading
• Consider using different colored labels or markings to clearly identify each zone

Honeycomb Space Optimization Pattern

A highly efficient packing method inspired by nature's honeycomb structures. By offsetting rows of similar boxes, this pattern eliminates channels and creates interlocked layers that maximize container volume usage.

Best For

• Uniform boxes or containers of equal size
• When maximum space utilization is critical
• Cargo that does not require specific orientation

Efficiency

Space Usage:

★★★★★

Stability:

★★★★★

Loading Complexity:

★★★★★

Pro Tips

• Plan each layer's offset pattern carefully before starting to load
• Can improve volume utilization by up to 10% compared to standard grid patterns
• Particularly effective for cylindrical items like drums or barrels

Nested Space Optimization Pattern

An advanced space-saving approach where smaller items are packed inside larger ones, like Russian nesting dolls. This technique maximizes space utilization by eliminating empty voids within larger items.

Best For

• Items that can be disassembled or flat-packed
• Shipments with hollow items or internal voids
• When shipping costs are tied directly to volume

Efficiency

Space Usage:

★★★★★

Preparation Time:

★★★★★

Cost Saving:

★★★★★

Pro Tips

• Maintain detailed packing lists for nested items to ensure nothing is overlooked during unpacking
• Use protective material between nested items to prevent friction damage
• Consider weight distribution when nesting - place heavier items at the bottom of containers

Tetris Space Optimization Pattern

A creative loading approach inspired by the classic Tetris game, where irregularly shaped items are arranged to interlock and fill spaces that would otherwise be wasted. This method excels at maximizing space utilization for non-uniform cargo.

Best For

• Irregularly shaped items that don't stack well conventionally
• Mixed shipments with varying dimensions
• When maximizing container capacity is the primary goal

Efficiency

Space Usage:

★★★★★

Loading Time:

★★★★★

Planning Required:

★★★★★

Pro Tips

• Use loading software or 3D modeling to pre-plan the optimal arrangement
• Start with the largest or most irregularly shaped items and work toward smaller ones
• Ensure all items are secured properly as this pattern may leave some items without full support

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

Cargo Securing Materials Guide

Selecting the right securing materials is critical for cargo safety. Different cargo types, weights, and transport conditions require specific securing solutions.

Material	Strength	Cost	Best For	Considerations
Webbing/Straps	★★★★★	★★★★★	General cargo, boxes, pallets, machinery	Edge protection needed for sharp corners
Chains	★★★★★	★★★★★	Heavy machinery, vehicles, steel coils	Heavier to handle, requires special tensioners
Wire Rope	★★★★★	★★★★★	Heavy loads, long distance sea transport	Can be difficult to tension properly
Rope (Synthetic)	★★★★★	★★★★★	Light to medium cargo, supplementary securing	Stretches over time, difficult to tension properly
Dunnage Bags	★★★★★	★★★★★	Void filling, mixed cargo, palletized goods	Single-use, temperature sensitivity

Material Selection Guide

By Cargo Type

Heavy Machinery: Chains, wire rope, heavy-duty straps
Palletized Goods: Webbing straps, dunnage bags, corner protectors
Vehicles: Specialized car lashing straps, wheel chocks
Fragile Items: Foam cushioning, air pillows, honeycomb dividers

By Transport Type

Sea Transport: Robust lashing considering roll/pitch, moisture-resistant materials
Road Transport: Focus on braking/acceleration forces, vibration protection
Rail Transport: Shunting impact protection, longitudinal securing
Multimodal: Redundant securing systems, diverse protection

Material Specifications & Standards

Rating Standards

Strength Ratings

Type	WLL (kg)	Breaking (kg)
Webbing Light	2,000	4,000
Webbing Heavy	5,000	10,000
Chain G70	4,700	9,400
Chain G80	6,000	12,000

Safety Factors

Method	Factor
Direct Lashing	1.5
Friction Lashing	1.8
Dunnage/Blocking	2.0

Certification Requirements

Mandatory Testing

• Annual load testing
• Pre-use visual inspection
• WLL marking verification

Required Documentation

• Test certificates
• Inspection records
• Maintenance logs

Maintenance & Inspection Standards

Inspection Points

• Check for wear and deformation
• Look for material damage
• Inspect for corrosion

Replacement Criteria

• 10% deformation or more
• Any visible cuts or tears
• Chemical exposure damage

Common Cargo Securing Mistakes

Awareness of these common errors can help prevent cargo damage, container damage, and safety incidents. Even experienced loading teams can overlook these critical issues.

Critical Mistakes to Avoid

Uneven Weight Distribution

Loading heavy cargo on one side creates dangerous imbalance during transport. Always distribute weight evenly across the container floor.

Insufficient Securing

Using too few lashing points or inadequate materials for the cargo weight. Always calculate securing requirements based on weight and forces.

Overloading Containers

Exceeding container weight limits compromises structural integrity and securing effectiveness. Always verify weight against container capacity.

Leaving Gaps Unfilled

Empty spaces allow cargo movement during transit. All voids should be filled with appropriate bracing materials.

Secondary Issues to Watch For

Incompatible Cargo Mixing

Loading cargo with different characteristics (weight, shape, fragility) without proper separation can lead to damage. Heavy items can crush lighter ones, and items with different friction coefficients behave differently under movement.

Poor Maintenance of Securing Materials

Using worn straps, damaged chains, or degraded dunnage bags compromises cargo security. Inspect all securing materials before use and maintain proper inventory of replacement supplies.

Inadequate Documentation

Failing to properly document cargo weight, securing methods, and special handling requirements. Complete documentation is essential for all handlers in the logistics chain.

Best Practices for Mistake Prevention

• Use a cargo loading plan before beginning work
• Implement a dual-check system with two people verifying securing
• Train loading personnel in cargo physics and securing principles
• Perform a final walk-around inspection before container sealing

Case Studies: Learning from Mistakes

Machinery Transport Incident

A 5-tonne industrial machine was secured with standard webbing straps rated for 2-tonne loads. During ocean transit, the straps failed due to dynamic forces, causing the machine to shift and damage the container walls.

Lessons Learned:

• Always use securing materials rated for at least 1.5x cargo weight
• Heavy machinery requires chains, not just webbing straps
• Multiple securing methods should be employed for redundancy

Pallet Stacking Collapse

A container loaded with pallets stacked three high arrived with collapsed stacks. The stacking pattern did not account for weight distribution, and no vertical securing was used between pallet levels.

Lessons Learned:

• Stack heavier pallets at the bottom, lighter at the top
• Use corner posts or wrapping between stacked pallets
• Limit stacking height based on pallet strength and cargo weight

Container Packing - Frequently Asked Questions

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How to Pack a 20ft Container

Step-by-step packing guide

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Weight distribution rules

Loading Patterns Library

Column Stack Pattern

Best For

Efficiency

Pro Tips

Interlocking Pattern

Best For

Efficiency

Pro Tips

Pinwheel Pattern

Best For

Efficiency

Pro Tips

Block-and-Stack Mixed Cargo Pattern

Best For

Efficiency

Pro Tips

Wall-and-Fill Mixed Cargo Pattern

Best For

Efficiency

Pro Tips

Zone Loading Pattern

Best For

Efficiency

Pro Tips

Honeycomb Space Optimization Pattern

Best For

Efficiency

Pro Tips

Nested Space Optimization Pattern

Best For

Efficiency

Pro Tips

Tetris Space Optimization Pattern

Best For

Efficiency

Pro Tips

Cargo Securing Techniques

Lashing & Tie-Down Techniques

Understanding Lashing Points

Effective Lashing Techniques

Diagonal Lashing

Loop Lashing

Cross Lashing

Direct Lashing

Pro Tips

Essential Tie-Down Equipment

Lashing Straps

Tensioners & Ratchets

Hooks & End Fittings

Bracing & Blocking Techniques

Key Bracing Methods

Timber Bracing

Dunnage Bags

Floor Blocking

Cross Bracing

Understanding Forces During Transport

Longitudinal

Lateral

Vertical

Pro Tips

Recommended Bracing Materials

Timber

Dunnage Bags

Void Fillers

Cargo Securing Materials Guide

Material Selection Guide

By Cargo Type

By Transport Type

Material Specifications & Standards

Rating Standards