Load Planning

Load planning is the strategic arrangement of cargo within a transportation container, truck trailer, or shipping container. Good load planning maximizes space usage, distributes weight properly, prevents damage, and ensures safe transportation.

Load Planning Objectives

1. Maximize utilization - Fill available space
2. Balance weight - Distribute evenly for safety
3. Protect cargo - Prevent shifting and damage
4. Enable efficiency - Easy loading/unloading sequence
5. Meet regulations - Comply with weight limits

Key Considerations

Weight Distribution

• Front-to-back balance (axle weight limits)
• Side-to-side balance (tipping risk)
• Bottom-heavy loading (stability)

Space Utilization

• Floor space (linear feet)
• Cubic volume (height usage)
• Stackability of products
• Void fill requirements

Loading Sequence

• Last-on, first-off for multiple stops
• Accessibility for inspection
• Product compatibility

Load Planning Constraints

Manual vs. Software Planning

Manual Planning

• Experience-based decisions
• Works for simple, consistent loads
• Time-consuming for complex loads

Load Planning Software

• 3D visualization
• Automatic optimization
• Weight distribution calculations
• Multiple constraint handling
• Documentation generation

Load Planning Steps

1. Inventory - List all items to load
2. Dimensions - Know sizes and weights
3. Constraints - Identify restrictions
4. Sequence - Determine delivery order
5. Plan - Create loading diagram
6. Verify - Check weight distribution
7. Execute - Load per plan
8. Secure - Strap, brace, or block

Load Planning Benefits

• Reduced shipping costs (fewer trucks)
• Less damage in transit
• Safer transportation
• Faster loading/unloading
• Compliance with regulations