How to Calculate Container Loading Capacity for Electric Vehicles

Optimizing container loading space is crucial for reducing sea freight costs per vehicle. Importers must evaluate CBU, SKD, and CKD packaging formats based on vehicle dimensions, stackability, and local assembly labor availability.

Reviewed by Ainne Zhang (Operations Director) · Last verified 2026-07-26

Key facts

• CBU Packing: Lowest assembly requirement, 24–30 scooters in 40HQ
• SKD Packing: Handlebars and front wheel removed, 60–75 scooters in 40HQ (2.5x capacity)
• CKD Packing: Completely knocked down components in cartons, 140–180 scooters in 40HQ (5x capacity)
• Freight Cost Reduction: CKD packaging cuts ocean freight per unit by up to 80%

Understanding Volume vs Weight Limits in Ocean Containers

Electric vehicle shipments are almost always volume-restricted (cube out) rather than weight-restricted, except when shipping heavy lead-acid batteries. Using SKD or CKD packaging recovers wasted cubic space.

Step-by-Step Container Calculation Workflow

STARGO logistics engineers generate 3D container loading diagrams for mixed-model orders, ensuring proper weight distribution and tie-down anchor security.

Frequently asked questions

What is STARGO’s MOQ for mixed container orders?

STARGO supports mixed container loading with an MOQ of 10 units per model.

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