In foreign trade, accurately calculating container loading capacity is crucial for controlling logistics costs and avoiding issues like insufficient space and wasted cargo space, especially for equipment and spare parts. 20GP and 40HQ containers are commonly used. Today, we’ll explain practical loading data in one go. (Images for reference only)
20GP (Small Container): Internal dimensions approximately 5.9 x 2.35 x 2.38 m, normal load capacity ≤ 21 tons. Suitable for small, heavy, precision equipment and equipment parts, it can hold approximately 28 cubic meters of cargo. This container type is the preferred choice for small, single-unit equipment due to its lower cost.
40HQ (High Container): Internal dimensions approximately 12 x 2.35 x 2.69 m, normal load capacity ≤ 26 tons, can hold approximately 68 cubic meters. Suitable for large, relatively lightweight large equipment, equipment frames, and complete sets of spare parts. It is the most commonly used container type for equipment foreign trade, offering significantly better value than a standard 40HQ container.
Reminder: The equipment often handles irregularly shaped goods, such as cartons of varying sizes and weights. Factors like stacking and rearranging will affect the actual loading capacity, which may be 2-3 cubic meters less than the theoretical value. Accurate measurement of packaging dimensions is crucial beforehand. Furthermore, the operators’ understanding of the goods, i.e., their container loading experience, will also influence loading data. The key is to avoid errors during on-site loading.
Additionally, palletized packaging will affect actual loading because pallets have low utilization rates, primarily used for quick loading and unloading and protecting the carton packaging. For full containers, it is recommended to prioritize loose-packing (LCL) loading, although this will incur higher handling costs, it significantly increases the loading rate.