Container Loading

Engineered pallet patterns and carton configurations that maximize every cubic meter of FCL capacity.

Free Container Loading Calculators

Estimate how many empty cans or ends fit in a 40′HQ container instantly. Select your specification and target volume to get pallet counts, container counts and shipping weights.

Can Loading Calculator End Loading Calculator

Container Loading & Export Logistics for Cans

Container trucks and forklift loading aluminum beverage cans

Efficient container loading is critical for aluminum can exports. Alucan plans pallet patterns, load configurations and documentation to maximize container utilization and reduce landed cost per can.

Container Loading Capabilities

Container	Cargo Type	Typical Load	Best For
40' HQ	Empty aluminum can bodies	~115,000–160,000 standard cans (16 single-stacked pallets)	Standard MOQ for plain/blank cans
40' HQ	Easy-open ends / lids	~7.0–8.2 million pcs (40–42 pallets)	Full end lots
20' GP	Easy-open ends / lids only	~3.5–4.1 million pcs (approx. 20 pallets)	Smaller end orders, trial lots

Empty can bodies ship only in 40'HQ because pallets must be single-stacked to avoid denting. Compact end/lid pallets can ship in 20'GP or 40'HQ. Actual quantities depend on can diameter, end specification and packing configuration.

Load Optimization

Pallet-free floor loading to maximize cube utilization.
Palletized loads for customers with handling requirements.
Protective dunnage and corner boards to prevent transit damage.
Weight distribution analysis for safe ocean freight.

Documentation

We provide packing lists, container load plans, weight certificates, SGS inspection reports and customs documentation to simplify import clearance.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Container Loading

How many cans fit in a 40′HQ container?

A 40′HQ container typically holds 115,000–160,000 empty aluminum can bodies, depending on diameter and height. Standard 330ml/355ml cans load around 16 single-stacked pallets, while smaller diameters such as slim or sleek can increase piece counts.

Why are empty can bodies limited to 40′HQ containers?

Empty can bodies are delicate and must be single-stacked on pallets to avoid denting and sidewall damage. A 40′HQ provides the best cube utilization while maintaining safe handling.

How many can ends fit in a container?

Can ends and lids are compact and can be double-stacked. A 40′HQ holds approximately 7.0–8.2 million ends, while a 20′GP holds about 3.5–4.1 million pieces.

Should I choose floor loading or palletized loading?

Floor loading maximizes cube utilization but requires manual unloading. Palletized loading is easier to handle with forklifts and reduces unloading time at the destination. We recommend palletized loading for most customers.

What affects container weight limits?

Container gross weight limits, road weight restrictions in the destination country, and pallet weight all affect loading. We balance piece count against safe weight distribution to avoid overweight fines and transit damage.

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Data-Driven Container Loading Plans

Our logistics engineers calculate can nest patterns, pallet heights and container weight limits before shipment. For can bodies, we use single-stacked pallets to protect sidewalls. For ends and lids, we optimize double-stacked pallet arrangements in 20′GP or 40′HQ units. The result is lower freight cost per thousand pieces and fewer damaged goods on arrival.

Get a Custom Loading Plan

Use our free online calculators for a quick estimate, or send us your target SKU, order volume and destination port. We will provide a detailed load plan, packing list and freight quotation within one to two business days.