Pallet Calculator
Calculate how many cartons fit on a pallet and how many pallets a shipment needs.
Last updated · View algorithm, constants and default inputs (JSON)
About this calculator
The estimate compares two simple carton orientations and stacks identical layers up to the stated load-height limit. It does not interlock mixed orientations or include wrap, overhang, pallet deck height or load-bearing limits. Shipment weight includes every carton and each pallet.
Worked example
calculated with the default values below
Pallet size EUR 1200 x 800 mm · Carton length 400 mm · Carton width 300 mm · Carton height 200 mm · Weight per carton 8 kg · Maximum load height 1,800 mm · Empty pallet weight 25 kg · Total cartons to ship 500 Cartons per layer (normal) 6 · Cartons per layer (rotated) 8 · Best cartons per layer 8 · Layers per pallet 9 · Cartons per pallet 72 · Pallets needed 7 · Total shipment weight 4,175.0 kg · Load volume utilization 100.0 % · Weight per loaded pallet 601.0 kg
General background references
Disclaimer
These calculators provide planning estimates only. Building codes, wiring regulations and safety requirements differ by country and change over time, and nothing here replaces a licensed professional or a permit. For structural, electrical or gas work, follow local code and have the installation inspected.
Implementation source
This record describes the implementation used by this page. It is not independent validation. External references, when available, support only the stated formula or definition; estimates and custom rules retain their own assumptions.
Formula and variables
n = max(floor(PW÷L) floor(PL÷W), floor(PW÷W) floor(PL÷L)); Q = n × max(1, floor(Hm÷H)); pallets = ceil(N÷Q)
- PW,PL
- Pallet width and length (mm, by type)
- L
- Carton length (mm)
- W
- Carton width (mm)
- H
- Carton height (mm)
- Hm
- Maximum stack height (mm)
- N
- Total cartons
Cartons per layer uses the better of two simple orientations; layers = floor(max height ÷ carton height). Total shipment weight = all carton weight + empty weight of every required pallet; last pallet may be partial. Volume fill uses the full permitted stack volume.
Frequently asked questions
What does the shipment weight include?
Total shipment weight adds all carton weights and the empty pallet weight for every pallet required. Per-pallet loaded weight assumes each pallet is filled to the calculated carton capacity, so the final pallet may weigh less.