Short answer
With single-tier stacking, a 20-foot container holds about 11 europallets, and a 40-foot or 40' HC holds about 25 europallets. On an industrial pallet (120×100) the figures drop to 9-10 and 20-21 respectively. Where double stacking is possible, the number can double; however, load weight often reaches its limit before volume does.
Typical capacities
The figures below are for single-tier stacking and are typical capacities. The exact number is worked out with a loading plan.
| Container | Europallet (120×80) | Industrial pallet (120×100) |
|---|---|---|
| 20’ standard | ~11 | ~9-10 |
| 40’ standard | ~25 | ~20-21 |
| 40’ High Cube | ~25 | ~20-21 |
For comparison: a standard 13.60 m curtain-sided trailer takes about 33 europallets or 26 industrial pallets with single-tier stacking.
These figures are practical capacities. It is geometrically possible to fit a few more pallets, but lashing allowance and door clearance prevent this in the field. To see the theoretical maximum arrangement, you can use a fill-rate calculator.
Why the High Cube gives the same number
A frequently asked question. The High Cube’s floor area is the same as a standard 40-footer; the only difference is height (roughly 30 cm more).
This is why the pallet count in single-tier stacking does not change. What the HC gains you is:
- It allows taller pallets
- It can make double stacking possible
- It lowers cost per cubic metre for bulky, light loads
The three conditions for double stacking
Doubling the pallet count looks appealing, but three conditions must be met at once:
- Strength — the bottom load must be able to bear the weight of the one on top. Not possible for bagged, fragile, or softly packaged loads.
- Height — the combined height of two pallets must fit within the container’s interior height. The pallet-height calculation must include stretch-wrap and any cap.
- Weight — the total load must not exceed the capacity of the container and of the road leg.
If any one of the three is not met, single-tier stacking is the only option.
The question to ask first: volume or weight
This question must be answered before starting the pallet-count calculation.
For dense loads (ceramics, steel, marble, liquids), the container reaches its weight limit before the volume fills up. In that case, how many pallets fit has little practical meaning; weight sets the limit.
The opposite applies for light, bulky loads (textiles, packaging, plastic products); weight is never a problem, and volume is the limit. Here, a High Cube and double stacking pay off.
The order of decision is: first calculate the load’s density (kg/m³), then determine which limit will fill first, and only then plan the pallet layout.
Practical factors that reduce the count
- Pallet overhang — even a 5 cm overhang can cost a whole row
- Packaging allowance — crate thickness is included in the measurement
- Stacking orientation — which way the pallet’s long side faces changes the count
- Door clearance — narrower than the container’s interior width; the last row of loading can be blocked by it
- Lashing clearance — the margin left so the load cannot shift
Common mistakes
Calculating with product dimensions. The pallet plan is made using the palletised and stretch-wrapped outer dimensions.
Not including the cap and stretch-wrap in pallet height. In the double-stacking calculation, a few centimetres are decisive.
Assuming capacity based on volume alone. For dense loads, the weight limit fills up much sooner.
Making the loading plan on loading day. Drawing the plan in advance both produces an accurate count and avoids wasted time on site.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Regulations change; confirm the current position before acting.