In brief:
Tare, payload, and gross weight are key weight specifications for containers. They indicate the weight of the empty container, the maximum load it can carry, and the total permissible weight.
The following applies:
These details are usually found on the CSC plate or on the container door.
Tare is the dead weight of an empty container. This includes the steel structure, the floor, the doors, and all permanently installed components.
Internal fittings can increase the empty weight. These include, for example, shelving, insulation, machinery, partitions, or technical equipment. For a converted container, it is therefore necessary to verify whether the original weight specification is still accurate.
Tare is often labeled as "TARE" and is indicated in both kilograms and pounds.
Payload refers to the maximum weight a container is permitted to carry. It is often indicated on the container as "Payload" or "Net Weight."
The potential load depends on more than just the available interior space. The maximum gross weight, the load-bearing capacity of the floor, and the distribution of the cargo must also be taken into account.
With heavy goods, the permissible payload may be reached even if there is still space left in the container.
The total weight is the sum of the container's tare weight and the weight of the cargo. The actual total weight can therefore vary with every shipment.
This is distinct from the maximum permissible gross mass. It is usually indicated on the container as "Max Gross Weight" or "Maximum Gross Mass." This value must not be exceeded.
The maximum payload is calculated by subtracting the tare weight from the maximum permissible gross mass:
Payload = maximum permissible gross mass − tare weight
An example:
A container has a maximum permissible gross mass of 30,480 kilograms. Its tare weight is 3,800 kilograms.
30,480 kg − 3,800 kg = 26,680 kg
In this example, the container may be loaded with a maximum of 26,680 kilograms.
These values vary depending on container size, type, year of manufacture, and manufacturer. Therefore, you must always check the specifications on the specific container.
Even containers of the same length can have different tare weights and payloads. Reasons for this include:
The terms "20-foot" or "40-foot" are therefore not sufficient to determine the exact payload.
The cargo must not only be light enough; it must also be secured and distributed as evenly as possible within the container.
Poor load distribution can overload the container floor, corner fittings, or the transport vehicle. Point loads from heavy machinery often require a separate assessment.
Heavy goods should be professionally secured. In doing so, the permissible axle loads of the truck and the requirements of the respective carrier must also be taken into account.
A conversion usually increases the tare weight. As a result, the remaining payload may decrease.
This applies, for example, to workshop containers, plant containers, storage containers with shelving, or containers with technical equipment. Permanently installed machinery, insulation, and installations count toward the container's dead weight.
Therefore, the actual weight should be determined before transport. In the case of extensive conversions, new technical documentation or a review of the transport certification may also be required.
Weight influences the choice of vehicle, transport costs, and the method of unloading. Access routes, crane capacity, and potential permits also depend on it.
For secure planning, at least the following information is required:
m³ supports you in selecting the suitable container and when planning transport, crane unloading, and installation.
The tare weight is usually found on the CSC plate or on the container door. It is often labeled as "TARE" and is indicated in both kilograms and pounds.
No. The tare weight only includes the weight of the empty container and its permanently installed components. The cargo counts toward the payload.
No. The payload can vary depending on the type, manufacturer, year of construction, and equipment. The specifications on the specific container are the deciding factor.
The payload refers only to the permissible weight of the cargo. The gross weight includes both the container and the cargo together.
Yes. Additions increase the empty weight of the container. If the maximum permissible gross weight remains the same, the available payload decreases accordingly.