Also expressed as LD, explosive loading density is defined as the weight of the explosive per unit of length of explosive product in a borehole at a specified hole diameter. Common units of the loading density are lb/ft; note that this is not a measure of actual density then (i.e. mass/volume).

The explosive loading density is very important for blasting applications in mining. If the blasting crew uses too much or too little explosives, the result could cost them time and money. Also, packing the drill hole with more explosives than necessary may present hazards to mine crews, equipment or neighbors via production of flyrock and damaging ground vibrations.