Loading a semi-trailer: plan Euro pallets, loading meters and loading area
The standard semi-trailer is a core vehicle type in European road freight. For load planning, however, more matters than the familiar 33 Euro-pallet spaces.
Key facts at a glance
A typical semi-trailer is often planned with around 13.60 m of loading length and about 2.45 m of internal width. This creates familiar pallet patterns. Mixed packages, non-stackable cargo, special dimensions and weight limits make real-world planning more complex.
Typical values and examples
| Example | Dimensions / calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Euro pallet | 120 × 80 cm | approx. 0.40 LDM |
| Industrial pallet | 120 × 100 cm | approx. 0.50 LDM |
| Semi-trailer | approx. 13.60 × 2.45 m | check geometry individually |
These figures are intended for preliminary planning. Actual vehicle dimensions, payload, axle loads and load securing must be checked separately for each transport.
33 Euro pallets are not a guarantee
The standard figure only applies under suitable geometric conditions. Load securing, load carriers, overhangs, weight distribution and actual vehicle dimensions must also be considered.
Automatically arrange mixed cargo
The 3D load planner tests several arrangements and clearly shows any packages that cannot be placed. When utilisation becomes high, a traffic-light indicator helps identify critical situations early.
Which shipments benefit most from planning?
Pallets & general cargo
Plan Euro pallets, industrial pallets and freely defined package dimensions together.
Express & direct transport
Quickly estimate which vehicle class is required for a time-critical shipment.
Industry & production
Structure loading requirements for spare parts, machine components and urgent transport enquiries.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a typical semi-trailer?
For preliminary planning, around 13.60 m of loading length is commonly used.
How many Euro pallets fit in it?
Up to around 33 standard pallet spaces are commonly assumed. The actual load must be checked geometrically.
How many loading meters does a semi-trailer have?
A typical semi-trailer provides approximately 13.6 LDM of loading length.
Can the planner mark pallets that do not fit?
Yes. Unplaced packages are shown and the status changes to red.
More load-planning calculators & guides
Enter dimensions, check the vehicle, share the loading plan
The Spedka load planner combines loading metres, volume, weight and geometric loading-area checks in one interface.