Non-stackable cargo: data for the quote and loading plan

State that cargo is non-stackable in the first enquiry, together with finished-unit dimensions. Adding the restriction after receiving a quote can require a fresh price and handling assessment.

Weight and total CBM do not explain the floor space required or whether another unit may be placed above the cargo. Turn the restriction into clear information for the provider and warehouse.

Define the restriction

Ask the manufacturer or packaging-responsible person whether anything may be placed on top, whether the restriction includes identical products, whether upright orientation is required and whether vulnerable parts project above the packaging.

Do not infer load-bearing capacity from a photograph or pallet type. Follow the supplied restriction and mark missing information. Do not relax it simply to obtain a better-looking layout.

Measure the finished transport unit

Provide external length, width and height including packaging, base and protrusions. Add gross weight for each group of identical units. Separate different crates into different lines.

Record permitted orientation, rotation and handling methods confirmed by the responsible person. If particular lifting or support points are required, attach the documentation instead of saying “any forklift will do”.

Use one stated dimensional unit. Photographs support shape identification; they do not replace measurements.

A complete fictional example

For training, assume four identical crates, each 200 × 120 × 160 cm externally and 650 kg gross. The example's confirmed requirements are upright orientation and no load on top.

One crate occupies 2.00 × 1.20 × 1.60 = 3.84 m³. Four total 15.36 m³ and 2600 kg gross. Their rectangular base areas add up to 4 × 2.00 × 1.20 = 9.60 m².

That area does not prove the crates fit any floor of the same size. Space shape, door access, arrangement, support and clearance matter. CBM is not automatically the LCL invoicing basis either; ask how the restriction is rated.

The handling instruction remains open in this example. Complete measurements do not make that missing instruction approved.

Use the 3D planner with clear limits

Enter actual units and the relevant restrictions available in the tool. Check your pallet or crate arrangement and compare equipment options. Retain the output with its assumptions.

If a restriction has no corresponding setting, include it in the operator's instructions and do not treat the visualisation as a check of that condition. The planner does not replace assessment of packaging strength, floor loads, support points or securing design.

CTU guidance addresses cargo preparation and arrangement. Applying it to a specific crate requires its details and competent handling.

Keep quoting and warehouse instructions consistent

Send the restriction and supporting documents to the provider and request confirmation that pricing and handling account for it. Include consolidation and transshipment locations where relevant.

Give the warehouse the same information. Agree unit markings appropriate to the product and process. A label alone does not replace prior acceptance of the plan by the operator.

If packaging or quantity changes, issue the revised specification to both parties. Do not leave an outdated sheet attached to the active booking.

Checklist

Description to copy

Quotation request: [quantity and unit type], external dimensions [length × width × height, unit], gross weight [per unit and total]. Non-stackable cargo: [specific top-load restriction and orientation from instructions]. Attachments: [drawing, photographs, handling documentation]. Confirm how pricing, consolidation and transshipment accommodate these restrictions and identify missing information. A preliminary layout is not a securing design or carriage approval.