Tare Weight of a Shipping Container – Meaning and Correct Determination
In the dynamic world of international logistics and transport, precision is key. Every kilogram and centimeter affects the efficiency, costs, and safety of the entire process. Proper understanding of weight data is therefore a cornerstone of the transport industry. One of the most fundamental, yet often overlooked parameters is Tare Weight – the own weight of a shipping container.
This article provides a detailed explanation of the term “Tare Weight of a shipping container”, its significance, methods for correct determination, and connections to other key logistics concepts. It also provides practical advice, legislative context, and specific real-world examples.
What is Tare Weight? Detailed Definition
Tare Weight (also known as “own weight”) is the officially recognized and certified weight of an empty shipping container including all its fixed components, but without cargo, packaging, or temporary modifications.
What Tare Weight Includes
- Complete container structure (mostly steel, sometimes aluminum, floor typically plywood 28 mm)
- All permanently attached components: doors, locking mechanisms, hinges, locks
- Floor, walls, roof, corner blocks, and other load-bearing elements
- Permanently installed markings and technical plates (including CSC plate according to Container Safety Convention)
- Standard coatings and surface treatments
What Tare Weight Does NOT Include
- Weight of the goods themselves (Product weight)
- Packaging materials, pallets, boxes, crates (Weight packaging)
- Filling and securing material (dunnage) – e.g., wooden blocks, plastic bags, securing straps
- Any temporary equipment, inserted ramps, internal shelves, etc.
Note: Tare Weight is determined by the container manufacturer and stated on the technical plate. During repairs or modifications, minor deviations may occur, but for transport and customs purposes, the value stated on the container door is always used.
Difference Between Tare Weight, Net Weight, and Gross Weight
To properly understand the significance of Tare Weight, it is necessary to know two other fundamental concepts: Net Weight and Gross Weight. These three parameters form the foundation of all logistics calculations and documentation.
| Term | Definition | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Tare Weight | Weight of empty container | Container structure itself |
| Net Weight | Weight of goods only including packaging and dunnage | Products, pallets, packaging, fillings |
| Gross Weight | Sum of Tare Weight and Net Weight | Total weight of loaded container |
Calculation Formulas
- Gross Weight = Net Weight + Tare Weight
- Net Weight = Gross Weight – Tare Weight
- Tare Weight = Gross Weight – Net Weight
In logistics and customs procedures, strict differentiation of these concepts is absolutely critical:
Incorrectly entered weight can lead to delays, fines, or serious safety incidents.
How to Find and Verify Container Tare Weight?
Where Can I Find Tare Weight Information?
Every intermodal container that meets international standards (ISO) must have basic technical data permanently and visibly marked on its doors. This data is usually located near the so-called CSC plate – a certification plate for container safety.
On the container door you will find:
- CONTAINER NO.: Unique identifier (e.g., HZKU 123456 7)
- MAX. GROSS (MGW): Maximum permitted gross weight (including cargo)
- TARE: Own weight of empty container (in kg and lbs)
- NET (PAYLOAD): Maximum net carrying capacity (NET = MAX. GROSS – TARE)
- CU. CAP. (CBM): Internal volume in m³ and ft³
Typical Tare Weight Values by Container Type
| Container Type | Tare Weight (kg) | Tare Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 20′ Standard (20DC) | 2,200 – 2,400 | 4,850 – 5,300 |
| 40′ Standard (40DC) | 3,700 – 3,900 | 8,150 – 8,600 |
| 40′ High Cube (40HC) | 3,900 – 4,200 | 8,600 – 9,260 |
| 20′ Open Top | 2,350 – 2,450 | 5,180 – 5,400 |
| 40′ Open Top | 3,900 – 4,200 | 8,600 – 9,260 |
| 20′ Reefer | 2,900 – 3,200 | 6,390 – 7,050 |
| 40′ Reefer | 4,300 – 4,800 | 9,480 – 10,580 |
Always verify the exact TARE value on the specific container door!
Verification of Tare Weight in Practice
- For customs and transport purposes, the value marked directly on the container is decisive.
- During repairs and modifications, the operator (owner) should ensure a new plate with updated Tare Weight.
- In case of doubt (for example, with older containers after major repairs), the container can be weighed on a certified scale.
Significance of Tare Weight in Logistics and Transport
1. Calculation of Transport Costs and Chargeable Weight
Transport companies calculate prices based on the total weight of the transported container (Gross Weight). Tare Weight therefore directly affects:
- Amount of transport fees
- Fuel costs and load on transport vehicles
- Handling fees in ports, warehouses, and during customs clearance
2. Safety and Legislation (Compliance)
- Maximum limits: Each container has a specified maximum permitted gross weight (MAX. GROSS), exceeding which is illegal and dangerous.
- SOLAS & VGM: The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) requires verified gross weight (Verified Gross Mass, VGM) before loading.
- Method 1: Weighing the loaded container
- Method 2: Sum of Net Weight of cargo, packaging and Dunnage + Tare Weight stated on the container plate
- Road and rail limits: Vehicle overloading is strictly penalized in the Czech Republic and EU and may result in shipment being held.
3. Loading Planning and Stability
- Stowage planning: Correct distribution of weight on ships, trains, and trucks is essential for stability and safety.
- Incorrect declaration can lead to accidents, container stack collapse, or cargo loss.
4. Customs Procedures
- Declaration of Tare Weight is mandatory in transport and customs documents.
- Discrepancies may result in thorough inspections, delays, and financial penalties.
Related Terms and Terminology
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Payload | Maximum net carrying capacity (NET) that can be loaded into the container (MAX. GROSS – TARE) |
| GVW/GVM | Total weight of vehicle with cargo (Gross Vehicle Weight/Mass) |
| Curb Weight | Unladen weight of empty vehicle (equivalent to Tare Weight for vehicles) |
| Dunnage | Filling and securing material used to stabilize cargo |
| Chargeable Weight | Weight on which freight is calculated (usually Gross Weight for containers) |
Practical Example: Calculation of Tare, Net, and Gross Weight
Scenario: Export of 12 pallets of machine parts in a 20′ container
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Weight of one part | 750 kg (goods) |
| Weight of pallet | 25 kg |
| Securing material/pallet | 5 kg |
| Number of pallets | 12 |
Calculation:
- Weight of 1 pallet: 750 + 25 + 5 = 780 kg
- Total: 12 × 780 = 9,360 kg (Net Weight)
- Container Tare Weight: 2,280 kg (data from door)
- Gross Weight: 9,360 + 2,280 = 11,640 kg
- MAX. GROSS (data on door): 24,000 kg → everything is in order
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Tare Weight?
The officially certified weight of an empty container without cargo and packaging.
Does Tare Weight differ for the same container type?
Usually only by tens of kg (depending on manufacturer, material, repairs). For calculations, always use the value on the specific unit’s plate.
Where can I find Tare Weight?
On the container door, in the “TARE” field, in kg and lbs.
Do I need to verify Tare Weight before each loading?
No, it is a fixed value. However, after significant repair or modification, it is recommended to verify (and possibly update the plate).
What if I enter incorrect Tare Weight?
It may result in exceeding legal limits, fines, delays in customs procedures, or even accidents.
Standards, Recommendations, and Current Legislation
- ISO containers: Construction, dimensions, and marking are governed by ISO 668, ISO 6346, ISO 1496 standards.
- CSC plate: Mandatory for all internationally transported containers (Container Safety Convention)
- SOLAS VGM: Obligation to declare verified gross weight (Verified Gross Mass) before loading (effective from July 1, 2016)
- Czech legislation: Road Transport Act No. 111/1994 Coll., regulations on maximum weights.
Overview of Most Common Tare Weight Values (Table)
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions (L × W × H) | Volume (m³) | Tare Weight (kg) | Max. Carrying Capacity (kg) | Max. Gross Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ DC | 5.9 × 2.35 × 2.39 | 33 | 2,200 – 2,400 | 28,000 | 30,480 |
| 40′ DC | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 | 67 | 3,700 – 3,900 | 26,580 | 30,480 |
| 40′ HC | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.69 | 76 | 3,900 – 4,200 | 26,280 | 30,480 |
| 20′ Open Top | 5.9 × 2.35 × 2.39 | 32 | 2,350 – 2,450 | 28,000 | 30,480 |
| 40′ Open Top | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 | 66 | 3,900 – 4,200 | 26,280 | 30,480 |
| 20′ Reefer | 5.44 × 2.29 × 2.27 | 28 | 2,900 – 3,200 | 27,600 | 30,480 |
| 40′ Reefer | 11.58 × 2.29 × 2.54 | 58 | 4,300 – 4,800 | 25,700 | 30,480 |
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