How do I know if my container is overweight?
Quick answerCalculate: cargo + packaging + pallets + tare (20GP ≈ 2.2 t, 40HQ ≈ 3.8 t) = gross weight. Then check the binding limit: box max gross, carrier limit, and destination road limit. On US lanes the road limit usually binds first at roughly 19–21.5 t of cargo for a 40HQ.
The three limits
Structural: max gross weight marked on the door (~30,480 kg).
Carrier: often 26–28 t, lower on some trades.
Road: axle and gross vehicle limits at destination.
Consequences
Gate rejection, re-packing and storage costs.
Overweight surcharges per tonne.
Severe road fines at destination, sometimes forced transloading.
| Container | Max gross | Typical cargo limit |
|---|---|---|
| 20GP | 30,480 kg | 20–26 t |
| 40GP | 30,480 kg | 22–26 t |
| 40HQ | 30,480 kg | 22–26 t (US ~19–21.5 t) |
Frequently asked questions
- Why is the US limit lower?
- Federal road weight rules cap total vehicle weight; subtracting tractor, chassis and tare leaves roughly 19–21.5 t of cargo.
- What if I am 1 tonne over?
- Expect re-packing at origin or an overweight surcharge; some terminals reject outright.
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Related
qa/what is vgm
qa/40hq container dimensions
Rates from China to all countries
Weekly China export freight index
Source: Juhe Zhuang rate platform (jhz56.com) market data and carrier documentation. Figures are reference ranges, not transaction prices; verify with your forwarder before booking.