Truck Load Calculator
Check if your cargo fits a truck by weight and volume. Enter payload, cargo space and item size to see total weight, space used and whether the load fits.
Updated 2026-06-14 · Free · No sign-up · Runs privately in your browser
Show the formula & steps
How the Truck Load Calculator Works
A truck can run out of weight capacity or space capacity first, and a safe load must respect both. This calculator takes the truck’s max payload and cargo space, plus the weight and dimensions of a single item and the quantity, then reports total weight, total volume, the utilization of each limit, and whether the load fits.
The Formula
Total weight = item weight × quantity Item volume (ft³) = (length × width × height in inches) ÷ 1,728 Total volume = item volume × quantity Weight utilization % = total weight ÷ max payload × 100 Volume utilization % = total volume ÷ cargo space × 100
The load fits only when both weight and volume utilization are at or below 100%. Dividing by 1,728 converts cubic inches to cubic feet, because 12 × 12 × 12 = 1,728.
Worked Example
A box truck rated for 44,000 lb payload and 3,800 ft³ of space, carrying 500 items that each weigh 40 lb and measure 24 × 18 × 12 in:
- Item volume = (24 × 18 × 12) ÷ 1,728 = 5,184 ÷ 1,728 = 3 ft³
- Total weight = 40 × 500 = 20,000 lb → 20,000 ÷ 44,000 = 45.5% of payload
- Total volume = 3 × 500 = 1,500 ft³ → 1,500 ÷ 3,800 = 39.5% of space
- Result: fits — limited by weight, with room for about 1,100 items by weight
Why Checking Both Limits Matters
Loading by feel risks fines, damage, and unsafe handling. A proper check lets you:
- Avoid overweight penalties — exceeding payload can mean tickets and liability.
- Maximize each trip — knowing whether you cube out or weigh out helps you mix loads.
- Plan accurately — convert any pallet or carton size into a clear fits/doesn’t-fit answer.
| Item (each) | Qty | Total weight | Total volume | Limiting factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 lb, 3 ft³ | 500 | 20,000 lb | 1,500 ft³ | Weight |
| 25 lb, 8 ft³ | 400 | 10,000 lb | 3,200 ft³ | Space |
| 60 lb, 2 ft³ | 700 | 42,000 lb | 1,400 ft³ | Weight |
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a load fits in a truck?+
A load fits only if it stays within both limits at once: total weight must not exceed the truck's max payload, and total volume must not exceed the cargo space. This calculator checks both and flags whichever one runs out first, since a load can be light enough but still too bulky, or vice versa.
How do I convert item dimensions to cubic feet?+
Multiply length, width and height in inches, then divide by 1,728 (the number of cubic inches in a cubic foot). For example, a 24 by 18 by 12 inch box is 5,184 cubic inches divided by 1,728, which equals 3 cubic feet per item.
What is the difference between weight limit and volume limit?+
The weight limit is the truck's maximum payload in pounds, set by the axle and chassis rating. The volume limit is the usable cargo space in cubic feet. Dense items hit the weight limit first; light, bulky items hit the volume limit first. The smaller of the two caps how much you can load.
Why does my truck fill up on space before reaching its weight limit?+
Light, bulky cargo such as foam, packaging or empty containers takes up volume without adding much weight, so the trailer cubes out before it weighs out. Heavy, dense cargo like metal or liquids does the opposite. Knowing which limit binds helps you plan mixed loads efficiently.
Does this calculator account for stacking and load gaps?+
It compares raw cargo volume to truck space, assuming items pack efficiently. Real loads leave gaps from pallet spacing, stacking limits and irregular shapes, so usable capacity is often 80-90% of the theoretical figure. Treat the result as an upper bound and leave a margin.