Logistics calculators

Loading metre calculator

Calculate loading metres for pallets, stacks and mixed load units together.

Your result

Enter values and calculate, or load an example.

Formula & assumptions

Floor positions = quantity ÷ confirmed units per stack, rounded up
Loading metres = sum(length × width × floor positions) ÷ cargo width

6 Euro pallets give 2.40 loading metres. 5 industrial pallets at 2 units per stack need 3 floor positions and 1.50 loading metres. Total: 3.90 loading metres, or 28.68% of a 13.60 m truck’s floor area.

The calculation does not check actual arrangement, rotation, cargo securing or axle loads. Different lines are not stacked together. No tariff rounding.

How to use this calculator

Enter different packages with outside dimensions and quantities as separate lines or use pallet presets. Only enter an operationally confirmed quantity per stack; a partial stack needs a whole floor position. Cargo width and length determine the calculated floor requirement and its share of the vehicle.

Formula and calculation

Floor positions per line = ceiling(quantity ÷ pieces per stack). Loading metres = sum(length × width × floor positions) ÷ cargo width. Floor utilisation in % = loading metres ÷ cargo length × 100.

Worked example

A pallet measuring 1.20 × 0.80 m uses a calculated 0.40 loading metres at 2.40 m cargo width. Ten such pallets give 4.00 loading metres using the area formula.

Frequently asked questions

What is a loading metre?

One loading metre is one metre of cargo length across the entire assumed cargo width. It describes calculated floor area, especially for packages that cannot be stacked.

Which cargo width should I enter?

Use the width actually available or agreed in the tariff. The 2.40 m example is an assumption. Wheel arches, fittings, clearances and the vehicle configuration can change usable width.

Are loading metres the exact required truck length?

The area formula does not represent a specific packing arrangement. Gaps, awkward formats, orientation and loading rules may increase actual length. Check the result with a load plan before loading.

Cargo floor area

Your result

Formula & assumptions