How Much Does a Shipping Container Weigh: Weight Chart and Useful Information
When organizing container shipments, it is important to consider not only the container’s dimensions but also its tare weight. This information is necessary for accurately calculating the load, preparing shipping documents, and determining the total weight of the cargo together with the container.
The following key parameters are indicated on the door of each container:
- TARE — the weight of the empty container;
- Payload — the maximum load capacity;
- MGW (Gross Weight) — the maximum permissible weight of the container together with the cargo.
It is the MGW value that determines the maximum permissible weight of the container after loading.
Weights of Shipping Containers
Container Type | Empty Container Weight (TARE) | Maximum Weight with Cargo |
20' Dry Container (DC) | 2 080 kg | 30 480 kg |
40' Dry Container (DC) | 3 900 kg | 30 480 kg |
40' High Cube (HC) | 4 150 kg | 30 480 kg |
20' Open Top (OT) | 2 440 kg | 30 480 kg |
40' Open Top (OT) | 4 430 kg | 30 480 kg |
20' Flat Rack (FR) | 2 950 kg | 30 480 kg |
40' Flat Rack (FR) | 5 530 kg | 45 000 kg |
Why Container Weight Matters
When calculating container shipments, you must take into account the total weight of the cargo together with the container. For example, if the cargo weighs 25 metric tons and is loaded into a 20-foot container weighing 2,080 kg, the total weight will exceed 27 metric tons.
It is the total weight of the container that determines whether further transport by road or rail is possible, whether weight limits are met, and which delivery route should be chosen.
In addition, exceeding the permissible weight may result in additional shipping costs or the need to obtain special permits.
Conclusion
The weight of a standard shipping container ranges from 2 to 5.5 metric tons, depending on its type and design. When planning international shipments, it is important to consider not only the weight of the cargo itself but also the weight of the container, since the total weight is used to calculate logistics and organize further delivery.
If you are interested in the specifications of different types of containers, we recommend reading the article “Types of Shipping Containers”, which provides a detailed overview of the features, dimensions, and applications of each type of container.
