Understanding Cartonization Algorithms [Information]

This article explains the functional differences, business value, and operational mechanics of the cartonization algorithms available in techSHIP.

techSHIP allows to optimize the fulfillment process by automatically determining the best box for a specific set of items. However, the efficiency of this process depends on the algorithm selected at the Client level.

This article is divided into the following sections:

1. Available Algorithms
   1. Basic
   2. Basic with Rotation
   3. EB-AFIT
2. Feature Comparison Matrix
3. Selecting the Right Algorithm

I. AVAILABLE ALGORITHMS

When configuring the Cartonization Algorithm, you must select one of three algorithms. Each represents a different level of complexity and packing density.

i. Basic

The Basic algorithm is the foundational logic engine. It uses a strict "Bounding Box" method, treating both the items and the boxes as rigid, fixed objects.

It compares the Length, Width, and Height of the item strictly against the corresponding dimensions of the box, and does not allow rotation.

For example, if an item is defined as 10 x 5 x 5, it will only fit into a box where the Length is at least 10, the Width is at least 5, and the Height is at least 5.

This algorithm is ideal for liquids, hazardous materials, or fragile electronics that must be shipped upright ("This side up").

ii. Basic with Rotation

This algorithm is an evolution of the Basic engine. While it still uses the "Bounding Box" logic, it introduces flexibility by allowing the system to "flip" items along their axes to find a fit.

It tests different orientations of the item to see if it fits within the box's dimensions. It treats items as solid blocks and does not account for complex nesting (putting small items inside hollow ones).

This algorithm is suitable for standard retail goods (apparel, books, boxed goods) where the item is solid, and orientation does not affect product safety.

iii. EB-AFIT

EB-AFIT is the premium, military-grade logic engine available in techSHIP. Unlike the Basic tiers, which simply check if items fit, EB-AFIT runs a 3D volumetric simulation to engineer the optimal pack.

It utilizes advanced 3D packing logic to simulate placing items into a box. It accounts for:

• stacking,
• interlocking (Tetris-like placement), and
• nesting.

It generates a "3D packing preview," providing warehouse staff with a visual guide on exactly how to position items to achieve the calculated density.

You can use EB-AFIT while shipping high-volume e-commerce with mixed inventory shapes. This algorithm is designed to eliminate "shipping air" by fitting more items into smaller boxes, significantly reducing Dimensional (DIM) Weight costs.

II.FEATURE COMPARISON MATRIX

The following table outlines the key functional differences between the described algorithms:

III. SELECTING THE RIGHT ALGORITHM

Choosing the correct algorithm is a balance between operational constraints and shipping savings:

• Choose Basic if:
  Your inventory requires strict orientation (e.g., chemicals, liquids) and cannot be tipped or rotated to save space.
   
• Choose Basic with Rotation if:
  Your inventory consists of standard rectangular items, and you want to reduce "No Box Found" errors without needing complex configuration.
   
• Choose EB-AFIT if:
  Your goal is to minimize shipping costs by reducing DIM weight. If you ship complex multi-item orders with mixed shapes, EB-AFIT can often fit items into a smaller box than the Basic algorithms, providing a direct ROI on shipping spend.

NOTE: To learn how to set up Cartonization settings, refer to: How to use Cartonization [Step-by-step guide][Information].

NOTE: Available Cartonization algorithms depend on your subscription. For more information, see: techSHIP Specifications Sheet [Information].