Loading metres are used in European road freight to describe how much trailer-floor length non-stackable cargo occupies across a defined deck width.

How to use this calculator

Enter the cargo footprint length and width, quantity and the usable trailer/deck width. The default deck width is 2.4 metres and can be changed.

Formula and method

A common planning formula is LDM = total cargo floor area ÷ usable deck width. For multiple identical pieces, multiply footprint area by quantity first.

Worked example

One pallet with a 1.2 × 0.8 m footprint occupies 0.96 m². On a 2.4 m wide deck, that is 0.40 loading metres under the simple floor-area method.

What to check before you ship

Carrier practices can differ, especially for stackable cargo, oversized freight and special loading arrangements. Confirm the pricing rule used by your forwarder or carrier.

Why the result matters

Accurate dimensions and weights help with quoting, space planning and avoiding preventable adjustments. Always use the packaged outside dimensions that will actually be tendered for transport, and verify any carrier-specific rules that affect billing or classification.