A theoretical approach has been proposed to solve the problems usually associated with the efficiencies of the preconcentration columns for the determination of trace metals in seawater. By taking the column as a series of batch-wise plates, the efficiency of exchanging trace metals can be expressed as an empirical exponential equation. The equation has been further derived to suit two different types of resins i.e. the chelating ion-exchange resin and the Sep-Pak adsorption resin. These equations have been applied successfully to simulate the efficiency of a column under various flow rates, pH, and column sizes, and were of value in searching the optimal experimental conditions for the preconcentration of trace metals in seawater.