Before creating a loading simulation, gather the measurements and handling instructions that the loading team will actually use. This beginner checklist helps you prepare those inputs. It is not a replacement for equipment inspection, cargo securing or transport-specific approval.
Measure what will be transported
- Measure the outside dimensions of the packed item, not the unpacked product.
- Count the units and obtain the weight of one packed unit.
- Separate different sizes or handling rules into different rows.
- Keep centimetres and inches, and kilograms and pounds, consistent.
- State whether a pallet is already included in the dimensions and weight.
Understand volume without confusing it with fit
CBM means cubic metres. For dimensions in centimetres, multiply width by length by height and divide by 1,000,000. Multiply that result by quantity for the row total. For example, a 60 × 40 × 80 cm box is 0.192 m³; ten are 1.92 m³.
The CBM volume calculator can total the shipment. Even when total volume is below a container’s nominal capacity, cargo may not fit because of dimensions, orientation, unusable gaps, payload, support or access.
Confirm the real load space
Ask the carrier or equipment owner for usable internal dimensions, door opening, payload and any special limits. Use the matching equipment guide as a planning reference, not a substitute for the actual unit’s specification.
Decide what can be rotated or stacked
Horizontal-only rotation preserves the item’s upright face. Full 3D Rotation allows more orientations and should be enabled only when the cargo’s handling instructions permit it. A pallet must not be overturned simply because a box could be.
- Identify this-side-up items.
- Record fragile items and known stacking-load limits.
- Clarify which transport units must remain rigid.
- Record delivery-stop order when unloading access matters.
Prepare palletized cargo carefully
If the entered transport unit already includes its pallet, include that fact in your measurements. If using automatic palletization for loose cargo, choose the permitted pallet sizes, stack height and pallet weight. Check the result row by row: the palletization option does not mean every oversize item can fit on the selected pallet.
Run a preliminary plan and inspect it
Open the 3D load planner after preparing the inputs. Check placed and unplaced quantities, number of containers, weight and item orientations. Review the estimated center of gravity and warnings, but do not treat a favorable indicator as a complete transport-safety assessment.
For the detailed procedure, use How to Plan Container Loading. That guide explains the planning steps and alternative methods; this page is the preparation checklist.
Choose a tool for your next step
- Test how many boxes from your order fit and compare entered, placed and unplaced quantities.
- Plan already loaded pallets using their complete outside dimensions, total height and gross weight.
- Compare container plans for the same shipment and review the cargo assigned to each container.
- Download Excel and CSV cargo templates when preparing a longer cargo list for import.
Before the loading team acts
- Check that the actual cargo matches the input file.
- Confirm loading access, handling equipment and the real placement sequence.
- Obtain a cargo-securing plan appropriate to the journey and equipment.
- Verify container condition and required documentation separately.
- Keep the cargo file and PDF assumptions together for review.
The CTU Code (IMO/ILO/UNECE) provides packing and securing guidance. The simulator does not issue a CTU approval, inspect a CSC plate or establish verified gross mass.