How to load a shipping container properly
Load a container by planning first, keeping heavy goods low and spread evenly along the floor, filling gaps so nothing can move, and securing the load at the door. Stay within the payload, keep the center of gravity near the middle of the container, and record the loading with photos. The international reference is the IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice for Packing of Cargo Transport Units (CTU Code).
Step by step
- Plan the load. List every package with its size, weight and handling rules. Make a loading plan so you know the container size, the order of loading and where heavy items go.
- Inspect the container. Check that it is clean, dry, odor-free and undamaged, the doors seal, and there are no holes (look for daylight from inside with the doors closed).
- Spread the weight. Distribute weight evenly along the length and across the width. Keep the center of gravity close to the middle; a common rule is no more than 60% of the cargo weight in either half of the container.
- Heavy at the bottom, light on top. Load heavy and strong packages on the floor, lighter and fragile ones on top. Never put heavy cartons on weaker ones.
- Fill gaps and block the load. Close voids with dunnage, air bags or timber so the cargo cannot slide during rolling at sea or braking on the road.
- Secure the door end. Build a stable final wall or use straps and bars so cargo cannot fall out when the doors open.
- Weigh, seal and document. Declare the Verified Gross Mass (VGM), apply the seal, note the seal number, and keep photos of each loading stage.
Common loading mistakes
- Loading all heavy goods at one end. Uneven loads are dangerous to lift and to drive, and can break axle limits on the road.
- Leaving gaps. Movement at sea crushes cartons and can damage the container walls.
- Exceeding road limits. The container may accept 28,200 kg, but trucks in many countries can legally carry less.
- Ignoring moisture. Use desiccants for long voyages through changing climates; condensation (“container rain”) damages cartons.
Use the load calculator to plan the order and see the load in 3D. It fills from the front wall to the door and keeps non-stackable items on top.
Frequently asked questions
How should weight be distributed in a container?
Evenly along the floor, with the center of gravity near the middle and heavy items at the bottom. A common rule is no more than 60% of the weight in half the container length.
What is the CTU Code?
The IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice for Packing of Cargo Transport Units, the main international guideline for loading and securing cargo in containers.
Do I need to fill every gap in a container?
Yes, any space where cargo could move should be blocked with dunnage, air bags or bracing.