Weight restrictions for container cargoes to be imposed in India

In the interests of keeping your cargoes flowing smoothly, we are writing to let you know about a pending development in the weight restrictions for container cargoes going into India.

The Indian Authorities have advised they will be putting extra emphasis on enforcing the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. They will enforce a limit of 23 metric tonnes for containers to be transported by road.

Shippers should therefore ensure that all containers, (whether 20ft, 40ft or alternative sizes) do not exceed a Gross weight, including container and cargoes, of 23 metric tonnes.

Containers landing at Indian destinations in excess of this limit will be delayed by the Indian Authorities until the weight is reduced for on the road transport. If this occurs, it will be necessary to charge all additional costs incurred from this to your or your consignee’s account as appropriate.

The table below shows allowable weights for cargoes once the tare weight of containers has been deducted from the 23 metric tonne maximum. Please note that tare weights of individual containers can vary due to repairs/variations in materials etc, and the following is provided as guidance only.

If you have any questions about complying with these requirements or shipments into India please contact your local APL office.