53‑ft dry van · quick guide + estimator
How many pallets fit in a 53‑foot trailer?
Short answer for single‑stack floor loading (most common): about 26 US pallets (48×40). Counts can vary with trailer interior width, loading pattern (straight vs. mixed/pin‑wheel), door clearance, and carrier policies.
Quick estimator
Most common single‑stack floor capacity:
Reference dimensions
| Type | Internal L × W × H (approx) | Typical single‑stack pallets |
|---|---|---|
| 53‑ft dry van | ~16.15 m × 2.46–2.60 m × 2.7–2.8 m | ~26 × 48×40 (US) · ~26 × 1200×1000 (EU) · ~26 × 1200×800 (EU) · ~26 × 1165×1165 (AU) · ~28 × 1100×1100 (JP) |
Numbers reflect common floor counts. Real capacity depends on actual trailer specs and loading pattern; always verify with your carrier.
Why the numbers vary
- Trailer width (e.g., 101–102″ interiors) affects whether tighter patterns add rows.
- Loading pattern (straight vs. mixed/pin‑wheel) can change totals; some setups report slightly higher counts, others restrict due to policies.
- Door/ceiling clearances and pallet overhang rules reduce theoretical counts.
FAQ
Is 26 pallets always correct?
No. 26 is the most common single‑stack floor count for 48×40 in a 53‑ft dry van. Some combinations, patterns, or trailer widths may differ.
Do you support inches?
Yes. Switch to inches inside the Pallet Calculator. All outputs will follow your selection.
How do I get a precise answer?
Open the calculator with container=53ft pre‑selected, enter your pallet size and stack rules, and review the estimate.
Disclaimer
This page provides planning estimates only. Real‑world loading depends on carrier policies, packaging tolerances, pallet quality, and local safety regulations.