Laststørrelser

Laststørrelser, or load sizes, refer to the specifications that determine how much and what can be loaded onto transport equipment. The concept covers physical dimensions (length, width, height), weight limits (gross vehicle weight, payload, axle loads), and volume, as well as packaging and handling constraints. Laststørrelser are used across road, rail, sea, and air transport to ensure safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance in loading, stowing, and movement of goods.

Key components include dimensions, weights, and volume. Dimensions specify external and internal measures that affect containerization and palletization. Weights include gross vehicle weight limits for transport units, the payload the vehicle can carry, tare weights, and axle-load constraints. Volume is measured in cubic meters or liters and influences stowage planning and container capacity. Packaging standards such as the EUR pallet (1200 × 800 mm) and ISO shipping containers (commonly 20 ft and 40 ft) define practical laststørrelser for many shipments.

Standards vary by mode and jurisdiction but share a common aim: compatibility with equipment, terminals, routes, and safety rules. In Europe and other regions, typical road-transport limits around 40 tonnes gross vehicle weight and axle-typical limits govern many loads, while oversize or overweight shipments require permits, escorts, and route planning. Intermodal transport relies on standard container sizes to maintain consistent laststørrelser across modes.

In practice, shippers, carriers, and logistics planners use laststørrelser to select equipment, design loading plans, estimate costs, and determine permits. Example: a standard 40-ft container often carries about 20 EUR pallets under standard stacking, occupying the container's volume without exceeding weight limits.

See also: containers, pallets, and logistics planning.