We previously talked about the number of boxes that can fit in a 40ft container and also gave some insights on shipping container dimensions.
So, how about we look at the same for a 20ft container?
A 20-foot shipping container is commonly used for smaller shipments. Knowing how many boxes can fit into a 20-foot container helps maximize container load while managing shipping costs.
This article explores container dimensions, box calculations, and packing strategies for efficient freight.
Let’s Take a Look At 20-Foot Container Dimensions
A standard 20-foot container is widely used for various cargo types. Here are its internal dimensions:
- Length: 5.9 meters (20 feet)
- Width: 2.35 meters (8 feet)
- Height: 2.39 meters (9.6 feet)
- Volume: Approximately 33 cubic meters
This 33-cubic-meter capacity is ideal for medium-sized shipments. A high cube version of a 20-foot container, although less common, offers an additional foot in height, increasing the volume to about 37.4 cubic meters.
| Container Type | Length | Width | Height | Volume (cbm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard 20ft | 5.9 m | 2.35 m | 2.39 m | 33 cbm |
| High Cube 20ft | 5.9 m | 2.35 m | 2.69 m | 37.4 cbm |
Let’s Now Calculate How Many Boxes Fit in a 20-Foot Container
The number of boxes that can fit inside a 20-foot container depends on box size. For example, if each box measures 40x40x40 cm (0.03 cubic meters), then:
- Standard 20ft Container (33 cbm): Approximately 1,100 boxes
- High Cube 20ft Container (37.4 cbm): Approximately 1,246 boxes
These numbers are estimates; the actual box count may be slightly lower to allow space for securing the cargo during transport.
Pallet Capacity in a 20-Foot Container
Using pallets is an efficient way to arrange boxes within a container. A 20-foot container typically holds:
- 10 Euro Pallets (80×120 cm) arranged single-stacked, or
- 8 Standard Pallets (120×100 cm)
If stacking is an option, more pallets may fit, but always consider weight distribution to avoid damage to your cargo.
Example: Box Count Calculator for 20-Foot Containers
The table below offers an approximate calculation based on box size:
| Box Size (cm) | Volume (cbm) | Standard 20ft | High Cube 20ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40x40x40 | 0.03 | 1,100 boxes | 1,246 boxes |
| 50x50x50 | 0.125 | 264 boxes | 299 boxes |
| 60x60x60 | 0.216 | 152 boxes | 173 boxes |
Important Considerations for Loading a 20-Foot Container
The maximum load, or payload, for a 20-foot container is typically 28,000 kg, so it’s essential to consider the weight of the cargo and distribute it evenly.
Using a cargo calculator can help estimate the exact number of boxes that fit based on container dimensions and the specific box sizes.
To Sum Up
Estimating how many boxes fit in a 20-foot container involves calculating dimensions and planning the stacking technique. Here’s a quick recap:
- A standard 20-foot container can hold around 1,100 boxes (1,246 for high cube).
- A 20-foot container fits 8–10 pallets, depending on pallet size.
- Balance weight distribution and secure cargo carefully.
For assistance in calculating your shipment needs, get in touch with us to ensure optimal use of container space and efficient freight planning.