Weight Limit Regulations | Bofeng Logistics

How much cargo a container can carry is not simply the number on its data plate. The actual loadable weight is constrained by three layers of weight limits, each imposing its own restriction.

1. The Three-Layer Weight Limit System

Limit Layer	20GP Max Payload	40GP Max Payload	Description
① Container Structural Limit	28,200 kg	28,800 kg	CSC plate standard; cannot be exceeded
② Vessel Stowage Limit	25,000–28,000 kg	25,000–28,000 kg	Subject to route stowage requirements
③ Road Weight Limit	20,000–23,000 kg	20,000–23,000 kg	National road regulations (the strictest constraint)

Actual Loadable Cargo Weight = Minimum of the Three Limits − Tare Weight of Container

2. National Road Weight Limit Differences

Country	Max Gross Weight (incl. container)	20GP Actual Loadable Cargo	40GP Actual Loadable Cargo
China	30,480 kg	≤26,000 kg	≤26,000 kg
USA	~23,000 kg	≤20,000 kg	≤20,000 kg
EU	26,000–28,000 kg	≤23,000 kg	≤23,000 kg
UK	26,000 kg	≤23,000 kg	≤23,000 kg
Australia	24,000–26,000 kg	≤21,000 kg	≤21,000 kg

3. Carrier Weight Limit Policies

Shipping Line	20GP Max Gross Weight	40GP Max Gross Weight	Reference Overweight Charge
Maersk	30,480 kg	32,500 kg	$100–300 / container
MSC	30,480 kg	32,500 kg	$100–300 / container
COSCO	30,480 kg	32,500 kg	$80–250 / container

4. Weight Limit Checklist

□ Confirm total cargo weight (including pallets + packaging)
□ Confirm container tare weight (check TARE on CSC plate)
□ Gross Weight = Cargo Weight + Tare Weight
□ Verify against road weight limits (especially for USA and EU routes)
□ Verify against carrier weight limits
□ If overweight: reduce cargo / switch to larger container / split shipment

Data Note: Weight limit data is sourced from ISO 668:2020 standards, national road transport regulations, and carrier operational guidelines. Data current as of July 2026.

Need a weight limit assessment or an overweight cargo transport solution? Contact us: info@zhbfwl.com