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Our Services
From standard container solutions to expert conversions, modifications, repairs and modular buildings – S Jones covers it all. We also provide industry-leading services for self-storage operators. Explore what’s possible by choosing a service on the left.
Shipping Containers for Sale
From small to large-scale storage, find the ideal shipping container to suit your needs at a competitive price.
Shipping Containers for Hire
Discover our huge range of storage containers for hire, plus welfare and workspace units that provide quick and easy site solutions.
Specialist Container Conversions
We’re a trusted provider of standard and bespoke container conversions, designed for industrial, commercial, and specialist applications.
Modular Buildings
Engineered for fast installation and long-term performance, our modular buildings provide flexible space solutions for every sector.
Shipping Container Modifications
From insulation to electrics and security upgrades, we provide tailored container modifications that transform standard units into practical, high-performance spaces.
Shipping Container Repairs
On-site container repairs and restoration that reduce downtime and save you money.
Standard Container Conversions
Discover our range of ready-made offices, chemical stores and topper containers - professionally converted, and available for rapid turnaround.
StoragePro
Container sales paired with expert support give you everything you need to start or grow a successful self storage site. Explore our Core, Plus and Ultimate packages and scale with confidence.
Shipping Container Finance
Take advantage of flexible finance options for bulk orders through Approved Business Finance. Your streamlined, stress-free purchase is only a click away.
If you are considering buying or hiring a shipping container, one of the most important questions to ask is: how much does a shipping container weigh?
Container weight directly affects delivery options, site preparation, and equipment requirements, so understanding the figures before you make a purchase or hire is essential.
In this blog, we’ll explain the tare weight of a shipping container, the approximate weights of the most common sizes, and why container weight matters when it comes to transporting and positioning your unit safely.
The term tare weight refers to the weight of a shipping container when it is empty. This value is usually stencilled on the container doors, so you can see the exact figure for your individual unit.
Several factors affect tare weight, including:
Understanding tare weight is essential if you want to plan for delivery, ensure safe site access, and choose the right equipment for moving your container.
While exact tare weights vary, you can use the following as a reliable guide for standard ISO shipping containers:
A high cube container will weigh slightly more than its standard equivalent, thanks to the extra foot of height and additional steel used in its construction.
For businesses and individuals across the UK, container weight isn’t just a technical detail – it has real-world implications:
Because containers are built from heavy-duty Corten steel, they are designed to be extremely durable – but that also makes them challenging to move. Here are the main options:
The most common delivery method in the UK. A Hiab lorry is fitted with an on-board crane that can lift the container off the vehicle and position it exactly where required.
A viable choice if the forklift is rated to handle the container’s weight and the unit has fork pockets. Standard forklifts are rarely suitable, so always check the lifting capacity first.
This method tilts the trailer so the container can slide on or off. It’s best suited for empty units to avoid damage to goods during movement.
Tip: Never attempt to move a shipping container with undersized equipment. The weight can damage machinery and the container itself, creating safety hazards.
Yes, but only if the forklift has the correct weight capacity and the container has fork pockets. Standard forklifts are not suitable for lifting heavy steel containers.
An empty 40ft container usually weighs 3.8–4.2 tonnes. High cube versions are slightly heavier.
A 20ft container typically weighs 1.8–2.2 tonnes when empty.
Tare weight determines whether delivery vehicles, lifting equipment, and site ground conditions are suitable for handling your container safely.
At S Jones Containers, we specialise in shipping container hire, sales, and conversions across the UK. Whether you need a 20ft container for storage, a 40ft high cube for a conversion project, or a bespoke workshop, plant room, or office build, our team can help.
We’ll provide expert advice on:
We deliver nationwide, including Birmingham, Manchester, London, and surrounding regions, using Hiab lorries and specialist equipment to ensure a smooth, hassle-free process.
If you’ve been asking, “How much does a shipping container weigh?” because you’re considering buying, hiring, or converting a container, our team is here to help.
Call us today or request a quote online, and we’ll guide you through everything – from container weight and delivery logistics to conversion options that fit your exact needs.
