PART OF THE PALLETMOVE GROUPBuy Pallets DirectHow many pallets fit on a lorry or in a container?
Start with the usable internal dimensions of the booked vehicle or container and the loaded pallet footprint. Space is only one constraint: payload, axle loading, access, restraint and the receiver’s unloading arrangements also limit the load.
A worked floor-space example
For an illustrative clear floor 13,600 mm long and 2,400 mm wide, 1200 × 800 mm pallets can form 11 rows of three: 33 floor positions. With 1200 × 1000 mm pallets, two across and 13 rows along gives 26 positions. This is a rectangular layout calculation, not a promise for a particular trailer; it assumes no overhang and excludes working clearance.
20-foot and 40-foot containers
Use the shipping line’s equipment sheet for the actual unit. Internal length, width and door height matter; refrigerated containers differ from dry units. Draw a scaled layout using 1200 × 800 mm or 1200 × 1000 mm rectangles. Rotating some pallets may change the arrangement, so dividing floor area by pallet area is not a reliable capacity calculation.
Check the loaded unit before booking
Include pallet height, goods, packaging, restraint and any overhang. Confirm the total packed weight and permitted payload with the carrier. Do not assume pallets may be stacked: the goods, packaging and pallet system must permit it. Send the proposed layout to the haulier or freight forwarder for acceptance.