How the 3D Cargo Load Planner Works
Our free 3D cargo load planner helps you visualise how your goods will fit inside a shipping container or truck before your shipment is loaded. This can significantly reduce loading time, prevent costly re-stuffing, and ensure you're using the right container size.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Select your container — choose from 20ft GP, 40ft GP, 40ft HC, or a custom size
- Add cargo items — enter each item's dimensions (L × W × H in cm or m), quantity, weight, and description
- Click Auto Arrange — the planner calculates an optimal 3D arrangement
- Review the 3D view — rotate, zoom and inspect the load from any angle
- Export — download your load plan as PDF or CSV to share with your loading team
Why Use a 3D Cargo Load Planner?
| Benefit | Without Planner | With 3D Planner |
|---|---|---|
| Container utilisation | 60–75% average | 85–95% with optimisation |
| Re-stuffing risk | High (cargo doesn't fit) | Low (pre-verified) |
| Loading time | Ad-hoc decisions at warehouse | Pre-planned, faster execution |
| Multi-SKU shipments | Complex manual planning | Automated arrangement |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — completely free, no account required. Our 3D cargo load planner runs in your browser using Three.js. Advanced features for LCL companies (team collaboration, saved plans, route management) are available in our LCL Load Management platform.
We use standard internal dimensions: 20ft GP (5.9m × 2.35m × 2.39m = 33.2 m³), 40ft GP (12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m = 67.6 m³), 40ft HC (12.03m × 2.35m × 2.69m = 76.4 m³). Actual dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer.
The auto-arrange algorithm uses a basic bin-packing approach and shows weight totals. For advanced stackability rules, fragile marking, and weight distribution analysis, the LCL platform includes professional load planning features used by freight companies.