Truck Load Calculator: calculate LDM and trailer space
Calculate loading meters for free, compare vehicles and choose the optimal transport.
The only LDM calculator with text analysis - paste a description from an email and dimensions are detected automatically. Used by forwarders in 4 languages.
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Guide & FAQ
How to calculate loading meters?
Loading meters (LDM) are the standard unit of measurement in road transport to quantify the floor space occupied by cargo on a truck trailer.
The formula
LDM = (Length in m × Width in m) / 2.4
The divisor 2.4 m corresponds to the usable internal width of a standard trailer.
Practical example
A standard Euro pallet measures 120 × 80 cm: LDM = (1.20 × 0.80) / 2.4 = 0.40 LDM
For 10 Euro pallets: 0.40 × 10 = 4.00 LDM.
FTL: the professional choice
Full Truck Load (FTL) is the preferred transport mode in professional logistics. Dedicated truck, no intermediate stops, maximum speed and cargo safety. For urgent or high-value shipments, FTL is always the best choice.
For small loads (under 2.4 LDM), groupage offers an economical alternative by consolidating multiple shipments on the same truck.
Frequently asked questions
What are loading meters (LDM)?
Loading meters represent the linear metres of floor space occupied on a truck trailer. They are calculated by dividing the cargo footprint by the standard trailer width (2.4 m).
How do you calculate loading meters?
LDM = (Length in m × Width in m) / 2.4. A Euro pallet 120×80 cm occupies 0.40 LDM.
How many pallets fit in a standard trailer?
A standard trailer (13.6 m × 2.45 m) holds up to 33 Euro pallets (120×80 cm) on a single tier. Maximum payload: 24,000 kg.
When is FTL better than groupage?
FTL is worthwhile for loads over 6 LDM, urgent, fragile or high-value goods. Groupage is cheaper for small loads (under 2.4 LDM) but with longer delivery times.
How much does a euro pallet weigh?
An empty euro pallet (EUR/EPAL) weighs about 25 kg. A typical loaded euro pallet weighs 500–800 kg, up to a maximum of 1,500 kg. Note: 33 pallets at 800 kg = 26.4 tonnes, which exceeds the trailer's maximum payload (24 t).
What are the dimensions of a standard trailer?
A standard trailer (curtainsider) has internal dimensions of: length 13.6 m, width 2.45 m, height 2.7 m. Payload: up to 24,000 kg, volume: approx. 90 m³. A mega trailer has 3.0 m height and approx. 100 m³ volume.
What is non-stackable cargo?
Non-stackable cargo is freight that cannot have other pallets placed on top (e.g. machinery, fragile goods, tall pallets). It requires more LDM because the full trailer height must be reserved. It is typically quoted at 1.5–2x the standard LDM rate.