Container max load is a crucial factor in cargo transportation. This article provides detailed information on the 40ft container’s load capacity, common container types, load regulations, and essential considerations for using 40ft containers for shipping.
What is a 40ft Container? Features and Cargo Capacity
The 40ft container is the most prevalent type, featuring a rectangular structure made of high-grade stainless steel. Its standard external dimensions are 12.192m long, 2.438m wide, and 2.591m high. The container max load of a 40ft container can reach up to 30.48 tons of cargo. A 40ft container truck consists of three main parts: the tractor, the 40ft trailer, and the 40ft container body.
Tractor, Trailer, and Container Body
The tractor boasts a powerful diesel engine, generating up to 3000 horsepower, playing the role of pulling and transporting goods. The 40ft trailer is designed to carry standard containers, ensuring even load distribution and safe transport. The container body has a rectangular design, with a detachable structure for convenient lifting with a crane.
Advantages of Using 40ft Containers for Cargo Transport
40ft containers offer several outstanding advantages, optimizing the cargo transportation process:
Large Cargo Capacity, High Durability, and Flexibility
Large volume and space-optimizing design allows 40ft containers to hold a large amount of cargo, reducing transportation costs. High-quality materials and external coating help the container withstand harsh weather, ensuring cargo protection. Compatibility with multiple transportation methods (rail, sea, truck) and easy customization based on cargo type (dry, refrigerated, hazardous) enables 40ft containers to meet diverse transportation needs.
Standardization, Environmental Friendliness, and Safety
Global standardization simplifies the transportation process and reduces costs. Containers can be reused multiple times, contributing to environmental protection and reducing CO2 emissions. The sturdy structure and safety equipment installed protect goods and ensure operator safety.
Save on Shipping Costs
Optimized space and reusability help businesses save on investment and transportation costs.
Common Types of 40ft Containers
Various 40ft container types are designed for specific cargo types:
- Dry Container: Most common, used for transporting dry goods like garments, household items, and agricultural products. The container max load for this type is usually around 26,750 kg.
- High Cube (HC) Container: Taller than standard containers, increasing cargo space.
- Refrigerated Container (RF): Equipped with a refrigeration system, used for transporting goods requiring low-temperature storage, such as fresh food and pharmaceuticals.
- Flat Rack Container: No side walls, used for transporting oversized, overweight, or uniquely shaped cargo.
Flat rack container for oversized cargo - Open Top (OT) Container: Has a removable roof cover, used for transporting tall or oversized cargo that cannot be loaded through standard container doors.
Open top container with a crane loading cargo from the top
40ft Container Max Load
The container max load of a 40ft container depends on the container type, legal regulations, and the container’s tare weight. In Vietnam, the maximum permitted load for a 40ft container is 30 tons (including the container’s weight). After subtracting the tare weight (4-5 tons), the maximum cargo load is approximately 25-26 tons.
Axle Load Regulations for Container Trucks
Container truck load regulations ensure traffic safety and protect road infrastructure. Each axle type has a specific load limit:
- Single axle: maximum 10 tons.
- Tandem axle: 11-18 tons depending on the distance between the two axle centers.
- Tridem axle: 21-24 tons depending on the distance between the two nearest axle centers.
Considerations When Using 40ft Containers for Shipping
To ensure a smooth transportation process, businesses should note:
- Choose a reputable, high-quality transportation partner.
- Thoroughly inspect the container before use.
- Manage temperature (for special cargo).
- Request technical support from the rental unit.
- Load and unload goods correctly, avoiding overloading.
- Prioritize containers with ventilation to circulate air and minimize mold.
Close up of a container vent
Conclusion
Understanding the container max load of a 40ft container and related regulations is essential for any business operating in the transportation sector. Choosing the right container type, complying with load regulations, and paying attention to technical aspects will help optimize the transportation process, ensure safety, and save costs. Contact Xe Tải Mỹ Đình for the best advice and support on containerized cargo transportation solutions.
