Enter cargo dimensions
Add the length and width of the pallet, crate or cargo footprint together with the number of units.
Trailer space planning
LDM Calculator for Loading Metres
Use the LDM calculator as a loading meter calculator for pallets, crates and non-stackable freight. Convert occupied cargo floor area into loading metres, compare trailer space and keep the result connected to the transport route.
Pallet planning
Floor space
Multiple items
Route workspace
Loading metre method
How to calculate LDM and loading metres
One loading metre represents one metre of trailer length across the usable trailer width. For non-stackable cargo, the occupied floor area is divided by the internal width used for the calculation.
Review stackability
Non-stackable items normally consume floor space individually, while stackable items may use less floor length depending on the loading plan.
Use the LDM result
Compare total loading metres with the available trailer length and keep the cargo result beside route, weight and axle information.
Standard loading metre formula
Loading metres = cargo length × cargo width × quantity ÷ 2.4 metres
Cargo inputs
What changes the loading metre result?
LDM is based on occupied floor space, not only pallet count. Dimensions, quantity, orientation and stackability all affect the trailer length required.
Cargo length
Measure the floor length of one cargo unit in metres using the planned loading orientation.
Cargo width
Use the width of the pallet, crate or cargo footprint that will occupy the trailer floor.
Quantity
Multiply the footprint by the number of equal units included in the shipment.
Stackability
Consider whether units can be safely stacked without changing the floor space used by the loading plan.
Usable width
The common simplified formula uses 2.4 metres as the trailer floor width assumption.
Weight and balance
LDM shows space use, but cargo weight and axle distribution must still be checked separately.
Worked examples
Example loading metre calculations
A standard Euro pallet measuring 1.20 by 0.80 metres occupies 0.96 square metres of floor area. Dividing by 2.4 metres gives 0.40 LDM for one non-stackable pallet.
Ten identical non-stackable Euro pallets therefore use approximately 4.00 LDM. The practical loading plan can still change because of orientation, gaps, securing equipment and mixed cargo.
| Cargo example | Calculated LDM |
|---|---|
| 1 Euro pallet 1.20 × 0.80 m | 0.40 LDM |
| 10 Euro pallets | 4.00 LDM |
| 1 industrial pallet 1.20 × 1.00 m | 0.50 LDM |
| 6 industrial pallets | 3.00 LDM |
| Crate 2.00 × 1.20 m | 1.00 LDM |
The examples assume non-stackable cargo and a 2.4 metre usable trailer width. Always confirm the real loading arrangement.
Loading advantages
Why use an LDM calculator?
Quote floor space consistently
Convert different pallet and crate sizes into one comparable measure for trailer space.
Spot capacity problems early
Compare the calculated loading metres with the selected trailer before confirming the transport.
Plan mixed cargo
Add several cargo items instead of estimating the entire shipment from one pallet type.
Keep space and weight together
Review LDM beside total weight, centre of gravity and axle-balance information in the same workspace.
Frequently asked questions
LDM and loading meter calculator FAQ
What does LDM mean in transport?
LDM means loading metre. It expresses how much trailer floor length cargo occupies across the usable internal width.
How many LDM is one Euro pallet?
Using the simplified 2.4 metre width formula, one non-stackable 1.20 by 0.80 metre Euro pallet equals 0.40 LDM.
Does stacking reduce LDM?
It can reduce the floor space needed when stacking is safe and permitted, but the actual result depends on cargo strength, height, weight and the loading plan.
Is LDM enough to confirm trailer capacity?
No. Loading metres describe floor space. Weight, dimensions, height, axle loads, securing requirements and legal limits must also be checked.
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Check trailer space before accepting the load
Add the cargo dimensions and quantities in LogicCalc, calculate total loading metres and review space, weight and axle distribution together.
LDM is a planning measure. Actual trailer use can differ because of pallet orientation, gaps, securing materials, overhang, cargo compatibility, stackability and vehicle dimensions.