How Much Does A 40ft Shipping Container Weigh Empty & Loaded?
Get a quote40ft Shipping Container Weight – Empty vs Loaded
Key Takeaways
- A standard empty 40ft shipping container weighs around 8,554 lbs (3,880 kg).
- The maximum gross weight of a 40ft shipping container is approximately 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg).
- Factors like the type of container and its modifications can affect its weight.
- Conexwest provides various types of 40ft containers for purchase and rent.
Dimensions Of A 40ft Shipping Container
Dimension | Measurement |
External Length | 40 ft (12.2 m) |
External Width | 8 ft (2.44 m) |
External Height | 8.6 ft (2.59 m) |
Internal Length | 39.6 ft (11.96 m) |
Internal Width | 7.8 ft (2.33 m) |
Internal Height | 7.10 ft (2.39 m) |
Door Width | 7.8 ft (2.34 m) |
Door Height | 7.5 ft (2.26 m) |
Conexwest, a leader in shipping and storage solutions based in Northern California, offers new, used, and refurbished containers from 10ft to 45ft, with fast delivery within 3-7 days and container fabrication options like adding shelves and locks. Conexwest serves over 10,000 national customers, including prestigious clients like the U.S. Navy and Google. As an ISO 9001 and AWS-certified company, we ensure top quality and competitive pricing. |
Weight Of An Empty and Loaded 40ft Shipping Container
The weight of an empty 40ft shipping container, also known as the tare weight, is typically around 8,554 lbs (3,880 kg). This weight includes the container itself, any fixtures, the roof, and the doors.
A 40ft shipping container has a maximum gross weight of approximately 67,200 lbs or 30,480 kg. This includes the weight of the empty container (tare weight) plus the maximum weight of the cargo inside.
With an empty weight of around 8,554 lbs, a 40ft container can accommodate a maximum payload of about 58,624 lbs (26,559 kg).
Factors Affecting the Weight of a 40ft Shipping Container
- Cube Height: High cube containers (9ft 6in) are one inch taller than standard height containers (8ft 6in).
- Manufacturing Period: Older shipping containers are often heavier than newer, more modern ones due to advancements in manufacturing techniques that allow for stronger containers using less metal.
- Container Type: Additional equipment or modifications used in refrigerated containers or open-top containers can affect the tare weight.
Types Of 40ft Shipping Containers
- 40ft Shipping Container: This standard container is designed for general cargo transport. It is constructed from durable steel for security and weather resistance.
- 40ft Mobile Office Container: This container - customized for use as an office space - has features such as insulation, electrical outlets, and HVAC systems. Ideal for job sites or temporary offices, the container can include multiple workstations.
40ft High Cube Shipping Container: Ideal for transporting taller goods or if you just need extra space without a substantially higher cost.
40ft high cube shipping container is a foot taller than standard containers.
- 40ft High Cube Shipping Container with Doors on Both Ends: This container is designed for easy loading and unloading from either side. It is beneficial for operations requiring quick turnaround times and efficient space management, especially in tight loading areas.
- 40ft High Cube Open Side Container: With doors that open along the entire length of one side, this container provides maximum access for loading and unloading bulky items.
- 40ft Insulated Shipping Container: Lined with insulation material, this container is used for transporting items that require a controlled environment, such as food products or pharmaceuticals.
- 40ft High Cube Refrigerated Container: Essential for transporting items like fruits, vegetables, and pharmaceuticals that need consistent cooling, this container can maintain temperatures from -20°F to 70°F.
Use Cases Of 40ft Shipping Containers

40ft containers commonly used for storage, as pop-up shops, and food trucks.
- Storage Solutions: 40ft shipping containers are commonly used for on-site storage of tools, equipment, and personal belongings.
- Pop-Up Shops: Entrepreneurs are increasingly transforming 40ft containers into mobile retail spaces which can be easily relocated wherever the business demands.
- Housing and Accommodation: With modifications, 40ft containers can be converted into affordable housing units, vacation homes, or temporary accommodations for workers.
- Office Spaces: These mobile offices can be equipped with the necessary utilities, which makes them ideal for remote job sites or temporary projects.
- Event Spaces: Modified 40ft containers serve as venues for events, festivals, and exhibitions.
- Emergency Shelters: In disaster-stricken areas, 40ft containers can be quickly converted into emergency shelters.
- Mobile Cafes and Food Trucks: The spacious 40ft containers can be outfitted as cafes or food stalls for a cost-effective entry into the food service industry.
- Art Studios and Galleries: Artists are using 40ft containers as creative spaces or mobile galleries for art displays and workshops.
- Classrooms: In areas with limited access to education, 40ft containers can be converted into mobile classrooms.
- Agricultural Uses: Containers can be adapted for farming purposes, such as tool storage, mobile farm stands, or even controlled environments for hydroponics and aquaponics systems.
Choose Conexwest For Your Shipping Container Needs
At Conexwest, we offer a variety of shipping containers in sizes from 10ft to 45ft. Here's how we can help you:
- Extensive Selection of Containers: Our inventory includes standard, high cube, refrigerated, and specialized containers like mobile offices. We also have both new and refurbished containers.
- Customization Options: With us, you can modify your container by adding windows, insulation, electrical fittings, HVAC, and custom paint, among other things.
- Flexible Rental Plans: Our rental period starts with a minimum period of just 4 weeks and can be extended as long as you want.
- Quality Assurance: All our units undergo rigorous inspections so they meet safety and durability standards.
- Expert Support and Consultation: Our knowledgeable team is here to provide expert guidance on selecting the right container and answer any questions you have.
If you are ready, don’t hesitate to reach out to us to get a free quote for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What types of goods can be transported in a 40ft container?
A 40ft shipping container can transport a wide variety of goods, including:
- Raw materials and industrial equipment
- Vehicles such as cars and motorcycles
- Agricultural products in bulk
- Furniture and household items
- Construction materials and machinery
- What are the differences between 40ft standard and high cube containers?
The difference between 40ft standard and high cube containers is height - a high cube container is one foot taller than a standard container.
- What is the lifespan of a 40ft shipping container?
With proper care and maintenance, a 40ft shipping container can last up to 25 years.
- What are the advantages of using insulated containers?
Insulated containers help maintain a stable internal temperature necessary for transporting temperature-sensitive goods.
- Can 40ft containers be customized?
Yes, you can customize your container with shelving, windows, doors, insulation, and electrical wiring.