Glossary

Tare Weight

Tags: Glossary

The weight of a container or vehicle when it is empty and not carrying any cargo.

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What is Tare Weight and How is it Calculated?

Tare weight is the weight of an empty container or vehicle, without any cargo, fuel, or other additional weight. It is an important factor in shipping and transportation, as it determines the maximum weight of the cargo that can be loaded into the container or vehicle. 

The tare weight of a container or vehicle is usually marked on the exterior of the equipment or can be found on the container or vehicle documentation. It is important to know the tare weight when calculating the total weight of the cargo and determining the maximum load capacity. 

The tare weight can vary depending on the type and size of the container or vehicle. For example, a standard 20-foot container has a tare weight of approximately 2,200 kilograms (4,850 pounds), while a 40-foot container has a tare weight of around 3,800 kilograms (8,380 pounds). Similarly, the tare weight of a truck or trailer can vary depending on its size, configuration, and features. 

To calculate the weight of the cargo, the tare weight is subtracted from the gross weight of the loaded container or vehicle. For example, if a container has a gross weight of 30,000 pounds and a tare weight of 5,000 pounds, the weight of the cargo would be 25,000 pounds. It is important to ensure that the weight of the cargo does not exceed the maximum load capacity of the container or vehicle, as this can result in safety issues, damage to the equipment, or legal penalties. 

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