Lastplanlegging

Lastplanlegging, or load planning, is the process of organizing how goods are arranged for transportation to optimize space, weight distribution, safety, and regulatory compliance. It is used across modes such as maritime shipping, air cargo, trucking, and rail, and aims to maximize capacity while ensuring stability and safe handling.

Key considerations include cargo compatibility, weight and volume constraints, dimensional limits, stacking and securing methods, palletization, packaging, and securing requirements. Plans must account for equipment availability (containers, trailers, pallets), center of gravity, axle loads, and any cargo-specific rules, such as hazardous materials, temperature control, or fragile goods. Legal and safety requirements, including loading plans, labeling, and documentation, are integral to the process.

Inputs typically include cargo dimensions and weights, hazard classifications, packaging details, destination and delivery deadlines, equipment availability, and any special handling needs. The planning process usually involves receiving orders, classifying and grouping items, determining loading sequences, computing a floor plan, assigning locations, and generating labeling and documentation. A final plan is reviewed for compliance and then executed during loading.

Tools range from manual spreadsheets to specialized software such as transportation management systems and dedicated load-planning applications, sometimes with 3D visualization and optimization algorithms. The outcome is a loading plan and associated documentation that guides the actual shipment, aiming to improve efficiency, reduce handling, and ensure safe, compliant transport.