Question 1

When should I choose a 40ft HC container over a standard 40ft?

Accepted Answer

Choose 40ft High Cube when cargo is volume-limited (light but bulky). The extra 30 cm height adds ~9 CBM (67 → 76 CBM) for similar payload. If your cargo already reaches the weight limit in a standard 40ft, the extra height provides no benefit.

Question 2

Why is my actual container utilization lower than the calculated value?

Accepted Answer

Real-world utilization is reduced by irregular box sizes, mixed SKU shipments, dunnage/bracing requirements, forklift access space, and load securing regulations. Plan for 80-85% utilization as a realistic target for uniform boxes and 65-75% for mixed cargo.