How to use the Truck Capacity Calculator
- Enter the inside cargo length, width and loading height in feet.
- Enter the carton size in cm and, optionally, its weight and the vehicle's payload.
- Adjust usable space to allow for gaps and loading access.
Formula
Truck volume (m³) = L × W × H (ft) × 0.0283
Boxes by volume = Truck volume × Usable % ÷ Box volume
Boxes by weight = Payload ÷ Box weight
Three limits, one answer
- Volume: usable cargo volume ÷ carton volume — an upper bound for mixed or flexible loads.
- Neat stacking: how many identical cartons fit in rows and layers in the best orientation.
- Weight: payload ÷ carton weight — dense goods hit this long before the truck is full.
Vehicle sizes are usually described by body length (e.g. a “14 ft” or “17 ft” truck), but inside width and height vary by make and body type. Measure the actual vehicle or ask the transporter.
Worked example
14 × 6 × 6 ft cargo space, 60 × 40 × 40 cm cartons
- Cargo volume = 14.27 m³; carton = 0.096 m³
- By volume at 85% = 126
- Neat stacking (best orientation) = 10 × 3 × 4 = 120
About 120 cartons
Important notes
- Always stay within the vehicle's permitted payload and secure loads properly.
Frequently asked questions
What is CBM?
Cubic metres of volume. Transporters and freight forwarders often price part loads by CBM or weight, whichever is higher.
How much space is realistically usable?
For uniform cartons, 80–90% is common. Irregular items, pallets or fragile goods that can't be stacked reduce it further.