In a refrigerated trailer the outside dimension does not give the pallet count, because the internal size shrinks with the insulated wall, floor and unit. For the Schmitz Cargobull S.KO COOL the stated figures are 13.4 m internal length, 2,460 or 2,490 mm internal width and 33 Euro pallet spaces. Trust the net size taken with a tape in the empty trailer, not the catalogue's outside dimension.
The EPAL Euro pallet footprint is 1.20 × 0.80 m. On a 13.4 × 2.46 m net floor, the 1.20 m edge along the vehicle gives 11 rows × 3 = 33 pallets, leaving 20 cm of length and 6 cm of width. The 0.80 m edge along it gives 16 rows × 2 = 32. On a 13.6 m floor the same layout would give 17 × 2 = 34; an internal length 20 cm shorter costs a row. The sum ignores gaps and load overhang.
| Dimension | What it decides | Where it is measured |
|---|---|---|
| Internal width | Pallets side by side | Wall to wall in the empty trailer |
| Internal height | Number of tiers | Floor to under the roof |
| Door aperture | Entry orientation | At the narrowest point |
| Payload | Real load limit | Registration, plate, axle distribution |
The MEB refrigerated vehicle selection module calls for air space of at least 15-20% of the load volume so cold air reaches all product. Leave at least 5 cm between product and the front wall, at least 20 cm between product and the lower level of the evaporator outlet, and put a 10 cm pallet or grate between floor and product. Filling to the roof is therefore a mistake.
The weight limit can be reached before the volume fills, so the stacking plan must carry product mass and position. Piling heavy goods at the rear can exceed an axle limit in some configurations.
