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Container Markings /Container Identifications

Container Markings /Container Identifications

  • A distinction is drawn between compulsory and optional marking. 
  • Compulsory ISO marking must be used on all containers, while optional marking does not have to be
  • The terms “compulsory” and “optional” used in the standard do not apply to the requirements of any legislative bodies 
  • The container identification system specified in DIN ENISO 6346 consists solely of the elements shown, which can only be used together: 
    • owner code, consisting of three capital letters
    • product group code, consisting of one of capital letters U, J or Z
    • six-digit registration number
    • check digit 
  • The current standard which deals with the coding, identification and marking of containers is DIN ENISO 6346, dated January 1996

Importance of container identifications marks and numbering.

  • They are used mainly for correct and precise identification of the specific boxes/ units/ Containers.
  • They are used for ease in tracking and tracing the movements of containers worldwide during voyages.
  • Other marks show the country of origin, size and type of the container. Example; US2200, means; (US)country of origin, (22)20 ft container general purpose, (00) basic type.