Pallet Loading Calculator
Estimate how many cartons fit on a pallet. Choose a standard pallet, enter the box size and a height limit, and get boxes per layer, layers, total boxes and floor space used.
Pallet Loading Calculator
Loading calculator…
How it works
A pallet is loaded in layers. The calculator works out the best way to place rectangles of your box size on the pallet floor, trying both box orientations and mixed-orientation patterns, then multiplies by the number of layers that fit under your height limit. If you add a weight limit it caps the total.
Standard pallet footprints vary by region. The 48 × 40 in GMA pallet is the common standard in North America, the Euro pallet measures 1200 × 800 mm and is widely used in Europe, 1200 × 1000 mm pallets are commonly seen in the UK and elsewhere, and Australia uses a 1165 × 1165 mm square pallet. Pallet height defaults to about 15 cm unless you choose custom.
Layers = floor((max height − pallet height) ÷ box height)
Worked example
Example: 16 × 12 × 10 in boxes on a 48 × 40 in GMA pallet with a 60 in height limit.
That gives 10 boxes per layer across 5 layers, so 50 boxes per pallet using 100% of the floor space.
Tips to save money
- Boxes should stay within the pallet edge. Overhang weakens stacks and many carriers penalize it.
- Check height limits for your carrier, trailer or container before settling on a stack height.
- Tweak the box size. Changing a carton by an inch can add or remove a whole column per layer.
- Stability matters. Interlocking patterns and stretch wrap help in transit, so treat this as a planning estimate.
Frequently asked questions
How many boxes fit on a pallet?
It depends on box size, pallet size and height limit. Enter your dimensions above for an estimate. The result is boxes per layer multiplied by the number of layers.
What is the standard pallet size?
In the U.S. and Canada the common standard is 48 × 40 inches (the GMA pallet). Europe commonly uses 1200 × 800 mm, and Australia uses 1165 × 1165 mm. Sizes vary by industry and region.
Does the calculator allow overhang?
No. It keeps all boxes within the pallet footprint, which is the safest and most widely accepted approach.
Is the result exact?
It is an estimate. The pattern search is fast and practical but not a full optimization, and real loads depend on stability, wrapping, corner boards and carrier rules.
Can I rotate boxes onto their side?
This version keeps the box height fixed so cartons stay “this side up”. If your boxes can be turned, enter the dimensions in a different order to test other orientations.
Related calculators
Results are estimates for planning. Carriers may measure, round and bill differently, and rules change. Confirm the divisor, rounding and surcharges with your carrier or contract before relying on a figure.