Maximising Pallet Capacity in Shipping Containers

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Colourful Shipping Containers

When it comes to transporting goods efficiently, understanding how many pallets fit inside your shipping containers is good to know. Whether you’re using a 10ft, 20ft, 30ft, 40ft, or 45ft container, optimising your shipping space can save both time and money. 

Here’s an in-depth guide to help you make the most of the space in your shipping containers.

Types of Pallets

There are two primary types of pallets used in shipping:

  1. Euro Pallets: Measuring 1200mm x 800mm, these are commonly used across Europe.
  2. Standard Pallets: Slightly larger at 1200mm x 1000mm, these are widely used globally.

Container Capacities

10ft Shipping Containers

  • Standard Pallets: Fit up to 4 pallets.
  • Euro Pallets: Accommodates up to 5 pallets.

20ft Shipping Containers

  • Standard Pallets: Holds up to 10 pallets.
  • Euro Pallets: Can fit up to 11 pallets.

30ft Shipping Containers

  • Standard Pallets: Fits up to 14 pallets.
  • Euro Pallets: Can accommodate up to 18 pallets.

40ft Shipping Containers

  • Standard Pallets: Holds up to 20 pallets.
  • Euro Pallets: Fits up to 24 pallets.

45ft Shipping Containers

  • Standard Pallets: Accommodates up to 24 pallets.
  • Euro Pallets: Can fit up to 27 pallets.

Key Considerations for Maximising Space

1. Efficient Loading Techniques

  • Tight Packing: Ensure pallets are loaded tightly to maximise the available space and minimise movement during transit.
  • Stacking: If your goods allow, stacking pallets can significantly increase the number of pallets a container can hold.

2. Container Selection

  • Appropriate Sizing: Choose the right container size based on your cargo volume. For smaller loads, a 10ft or 20ft container might be sufficient, while larger shipments may require a 40ft or 45ft container.

3. Cargo Nature

  • Weight Distribution: Proper weight distribution within the container is vital to avoid overloading and ensure safe transportation.
  • Fragility: For fragile items, ensure that pallets are securely packed and cushioned to prevent damage.

Additional Tips

  • Plan Ahead: Thorough planning of your cargo can help in determining the exact number of pallets needed and the most efficient way to load them.
  • Professional Assistance: Seeking advice from logistics professionals can help optimise space and ensure compliance with shipping regulations.

By understanding the capacities and dimensions of shipping containers, you can better plan your shipments, ensuring maximum space utilisation and cost-efficiency. For more detailed information and to explore a variety of container options, check out what we offer.

Whether you require a single shipping container, or multiple containers, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us at Container Sales (UK) Ltd. We are always happy to help!