Container Packing Guide: How to Pack and Secure a Shipping Container

To pack a shipping container safely: check the container before loading (valid CSC plate, no damage, clean and dry), stay within the weight limit and spread the load evenly (maximum floor load 4.5t per running metre in a 20′ and 3t in a 40′), secure every piece with dunnage, chocks and lashings so nothing can move at sea, and check the container after loading (weight, packing list, timber treatment and dangerous goods placards). This free guide from Depth Logistics explains each step. We pack and unpack containers at our Depth Defence Logistics Centres (2DLCs) and on site in Brisbane and Darwin and our Townsville depot through our container unloading and loading service.

Container checks before loading

• Every container shipped on a vessel must have a valid CSC plate under the International Convention for Safe Containers (2 December 1972). If the CSC plate has expired, the shipping line will not accept the container.
• Check for visible damage, including holes, cracks, and broken locking latches, handles and lashing points.
• Check all doors and locking devices work properly.
• Remove any labels or stickers from previous shipments.
• Make sure the container is completely dry, odourless and clean inside.

Open top containers: both the roof bow and upper door strap must be properly attached, and the roof cover must be the correct size, with no damage to the cover or rope ends.

Important information about this guide

None of this information is intended to replace or supplement any relevant or applicable regulation, guideline or code of practice whether or not referred to by us. This information is non-exhaustive and seeks to increase awareness of basic procedures and no express or implied warranties or guarantees are made. Whilst we have made every effort to ensure the content provided is accurate, it may, nevertheless, contain errors and regulations subject to change. Therefore please note that Depth Logistics does not assume any liability for the accuracy of the information and contents provided in this guide, or for any consequences resulting from using the information provided. Carriage of cargo is subject to our standard trading terms and conditions and no information herein is intended to alter or amend these.

Weight limits and weight distribution

Container weight limits follow ISO standard 668. The permissible gross weight is shown on the CSC plate and usually on the container doors. Road transport rules in some countries do not allow a container to be loaded to its full permissible gross weight, so check with us first. The bottom crossbars carry the cargo’s weight. If the container is loaded to its weight limit, all crossbars must be evenly loaded and the weight spread over the whole length of the container. The container floor is not designed for heavy concentrated loads. Maximum floor load is 4.5t per running metre in a 20′ container and 3t per running metre in a 40′ container. To work out the floor load, divide the cargo weight (t) by the cargo length (m). Wooden beams laid lengthwise help spread heavy individual items. If the cargo is heavier than the container allows, use a flat rack instead (see our flatrack packing guide).

Wooden beams for bedding heavy cargo

Centre of gravity limits

Securing goods inside a container

Containers have lashing devices along the floor’s longitudinal beams, on the roof and near the corner posts. Each lashing device has a safe working load of 1t. You can also use the corrugations in the side walls to secure cargo lengthwise with transverse wooden beams. End and side walls only suit large-surface loads, not concentrated forces. Corner posts can be used to chock heavy items and stop them sliding.

Rules for securing cargo

• Follow the IMO/ILO Guidelines for Packing and Securing Cargoes in Containers for Transport by Land or by Sea (Container Packing Guidelines).
• Cargo going by sea must be secured against rolling, pitching and yawing.
• The best method is to spread cargo evenly over the whole floor with no gaps. Fill any unavoidable gaps with suitable dunnage.
• Pieces that don’t cover the floor must be chocked and lashed, using lashing eyes on the floor beams, corner posts and roof.
• Secure cargo lengthwise with a wooden beam wedged into the side-wall corrugations or the groove on the corner post, filling the space to the cargo with more beams.
• Chock crates against the side walls over large bearing areas, using dunnage or air bags.

Container checks after loading

• The weight does not exceed the container’s maximum load.
• A copy of the packing list is visible on the container (for customs inspections).
• If timber packaging was used, check the destination country’s quarantine rules; a fumigation or timber treatment certificate may need to be displayed. See cargo and container fumigation.
• On open top containers, the roof sheets fit correctly and the ropes are threaded properly (customs seal).
• For dangerous goods, the packing and segregation rules are followed and the correct IMO placard is on the outside of the container.

Need help packing a container in Brisbane, Darwin or Townsville?

Our team can pack or unpack your container at your site or at our 2DLCs, with our own forklift, pallet jack and ramps. Container unloading and loading rates exclude GST; GST is additional. Our trucks handle the container cartage to and from the wharf. For container sizes, see our shipping container specifications.

Frequently asked questions