What is VGM in shipping?

VGM stands for Verified Gross Mass. It is the total weight of a packed container including cargo, dunnage, pallets, and the container tare weight. Since July 2016, SOLAS regulations require shippers to declare VGM before loading. Non-compliance can result in refusal to load, fines, or delays.

How much weight can a 40ft container hold?

A standard 40ft container has a maximum payload of approximately 26,580 kg (58,600 lbs). The tare weight is about 3,750 kg (8,270 lbs) and the max gross weight is 30,480 kg (67,200 lbs). A 40ft High Cube container has the same weight limits but more volume (76.3 CBM vs 67.7 CBM).

What is the difference between tare, payload, and gross weight?

Tare weight is the empty container weight. Payload (or net weight) is the maximum cargo weight the container can carry. Gross weight (Max Gross) is the total weight including container + cargo. Formula: Payload = Max Gross − Tare. For VGM: VGM = Actual cargo weight + packaging/dunnage + container tare weight.

Free Container Weight Calculator — Payload, Tare & VGM for FCL Shipments

Container Weight Calculator

Calculate payload, tare, and VGM for FCL container shipments. Supports all standard container sizes with real-world weight specifications.

Container Selection

Container Type

Unit System

Cargo Details

Cargo Weight (kg)

Packaging / Dunnage (kg)

Pallets Weight (kg)

Number of Packages

Avg. Weight per Pkg (kg)

Weight Source

Container Weight Specifications

Understanding container weight limits is critical for FCL (Full Container Load) shipping. Every container has three key weight values:

Tare Weight: The weight of the empty container itself. Ranges from 2,300 kg (20ft) to 4,800 kg (45HQ).
Max Gross Weight (MGW): The maximum total weight of container + cargo. Standard is 30,480 kg for most containers.
Max Payload (Net Weight): The maximum cargo weight. Calculated as MGW minus Tare. This is what you can actually ship.

VGM — Verified Gross Mass

Since July 1, 2016, the IMO's SOLAS amendment requires all shippers to declare the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) of packed containers before loading. Two approved methods:

Method 1: Weigh the packed container using calibrated weighing equipment (truck scale, weighbridge)
Method 2: Weigh all contents individually (cargo + packaging + dunnage + pallets) and add the container tare weight

Weight Distribution Best Practices

Distribute weight evenly across the container floor — uneven loading causes structural damage
Keep the center of gravity low and centered — avoid stacking heavy items on top
Heavy cargo should be placed on the floor; lighter items on top
For 40ft/45ft containers, spread weight across the full length — don't concentrate in one section
Use dunnage bags or lashing to prevent cargo shift during transit