A loading meter represents one meter of trailer length using the full internal width. It is widely used in European groupage and LTL road-freight pricing.
LDM = total floor area (m²) ÷ trailer internal width ÷ stacking factorWhat a loading meter represents
One loading meter is one meter of trailer length across the trailer's usable width. Using a 2.4 m reference width, a non-stackable 1.2 × 0.8 m Euro pallet occupies 0.4 loading meters by the area method.
Stackability matters
If two identical handling units can safely be double-stacked, the effective floor-space requirement can be divided by two. Do not apply a stacking factor unless the packaging, product and carrier permit it.
Why forwarder results can differ
Some road-freight tariffs use fixed pallet equivalents, minimum LDM values, non-stackable rules or equipment-specific trailer widths. Use 2.4 m as a common planning width, then confirm the commercial rule in your quotation.
Frequently asked questions
How many LDM is a Euro pallet?
Using the simple 2.4 m trailer-width area method, a 1.2 × 0.8 m non-stackable Euro pallet is 0.4 LDM.
What trailer width should I use?
2.4 m is a common planning value for European road-freight calculations. Use the width stated by your carrier when available.
Can I divide LDM for stackable pallets?
Only when the freight can actually be stacked safely and the carrier accepts that treatment.
Is LDM the same as pallet spaces?
Not exactly. LDM is a linear trailer-space measure, while pallet-space rules may use fixed commercial equivalents.
Sources & verification
Verify carrier-sensitive rules against the source governing your shipment.
Formula reviewed September 29, 2026 Representative values and boundary cases are tested automatically.