An autonomous cargo container retrieval and delivery system locates a select cargo container and maneuvers an unmanned aerial vehicle proximate to the container for retrieval. The vehicle positions itself to engage the cargo container using a grasping mechanism, and, responsive to engaging the cargo container, retracts the cargo container toward the vehicle. As the cargo container is retracted toward the vehicle, weight sensors within the retrieval mechanism sense the weight and the weight distribution of the cargo container, and, can modify the cargo container's location on the vehicle to optimize vehicle flight operations or replace the container on the ground and alert the operator that the cargo container is too heavy or has an improper weight distribution. Upon mating the cargo container with the vehicle, a coupling mechanism latches or secures the cargo container to the vehicle for further flight and/or ground operations.