Guide · Load planning
Truck load planning: fit more, damage less, unload in the right order.
A load plan is not just “will it fit”. It is weight, height, what can sit on what, and which drop comes off first.
The rules a load plan must respect
| Rule | Why |
|---|---|
| Gross weight and axle limits | Overloading fines and safety |
| Height and volume | What physically fits the body |
| Crush and stacking rules | Heavy cartons never on fragile ones |
| Drop sequence | The first drop loaded last, nearest the door |
| Compatibility | Food away from chemicals; temperature zones in reefers |
| Customer rules | Pallet patterns, maximum layers, labels facing out |
Where load planning saves money
- Fewer trucks. Better cube and weight use on every load.
- Less damage. Crush rules followed every time, not only by experienced loaders.
- Faster unloading. Drops in the right order at multi-drop routes.
- Part-load consolidation. Combining orders for nearby RDCs or distributors, which also lowers freight CO₂e.
From order to load plan
- Pull confirmed orders and SKU dimensions and weights from the ERP.
- Group by route and delivery window.
- Choose the vehicle type for each group.
- Pack by weight, height and crush rules; sequence drops from the door.
- Give the loader a visual plan; capture the loading sheet and photos at the dock.
How SCM for Manufacturers does it
In SCM for Manufacturers, the load optimiser packs by weight, height and crush rules and sequences drops from the door, as one step in the chain from indent to shelf. The loaded stamp at the dock records the loading sheet and photos. Related: plant gate TAT and freight cost per ton.
Questions
What is truck load planning software?
Software that decides which orders go on which truck and how to place them, respecting weight, height, crush, compatibility and drop-order rules.
Do I need 3D load planning?
If loads are mixed, fragile or multi-drop, yes: a visual 3D plan helps loaders follow the rules. Full loads of one SKU need little planning.
Does load planning reduce freight cost?
Usually, by using fewer trucks for the same volume and by consolidating part-loads.
See it on your own data. SCM for Manufacturers puts the plant gate, carriers, RDC stock, cold chain and OTIF on one control tower. Book a 30-minute working session with an engineer.