Container Loading

The Container Loading Problem (CLP) is the practical, side-constraint-rich application of 3D-BPP. Beyond fitting volumes: weight limits, orientation constraints (this-side-up, no flipping), stacking rules (which box can sit on which), fragility, weight distribution (front-rear axle balance, left-right balance), delivery sequence (multi-drop unloading), and layer-building (pallet layers). Bischoff and Ratcliff (1995) is the foundational paper. In industry, heuristics (wall-building, layer-building) are combined with meta-heuristics; the output is a 3D load plan rendered as layer-by-layer visualization for the warehouse operator and driver. Typical benefits: 5-15% utilization gain, lower damage rate.