How to Load and Stuff an FCL Container Safely

Plan the load before you start

List every carton or piece, its weight, and dimensions. Decide the layering and keep the centre of gravity low and centred. A written load plan avoids an unbalanced container that is hard to handle and risks cargo shifts at sea.

Distribute weight evenly

Spread weight across the floor rather than stacking it all at one end. Keep roughly 50/50 left to right and front to back, and place heavier items at the bottom. Uneven loading stresses the container and the chassis and can cause accidents during handling.

Palletise or floor-load with care

Palletised cargo is faster to load and more stable when stretch-wrapped and stacked in a brick pattern. Floor-loaded cartons should be tight-filled with no gaps; voids let cartons collapse and rub during the voyage.

Brace, lash, and dunnage

• Use strapping, webbing, and edge protectors to lock stacks to the container walls
• Fill gaps with air bags or dunnage to stop movement
• Block the doorway so nothing can shift toward the opening
• Protect corners and fragile surfaces with padding

Protect against moisture and contamination

Ocean containers sweat as temperatures change. Add desiccant and consider a moisture barrier liner for paper, electronics, or metal goods. Keep the floor clean and dry, and never load wet or contaminated cargo.

Seal and document the container

After stuffing, the container is sealed with a numbered high-security seal. Record the seal number on all documents and take dated photos of the loaded container, the seal, and the closure. Those photos are your evidence if a shortage or damage claim arises.