Each container on a freight ship has to have markings so that it can be transported to the right location. Additionally, these marks allow them to be monitored as they are shipped over long distances. They are required on every container for the purpose of identification. Each marking has a significant meaning in the ocean freight industry.
What Markings on Freight Shipping Containers Mean
Every marking on a shipping container has an important message to convey. They help the crew identify the contents of the item and who its contents belong to.
Container Number
The container number is the most important marking. It is made up of an alpha-numeric sequence that allows for international shipments. It functions under the ISO agency with the code ISO6346:1995(E). The first group is four letters that start with a prefix of three letters which makes up the owner prefix. The last letter pertains to the equipment identifier. The second group is six letters that make up the serial number. Lastly, a single numerical number at the end is the check digit.
ISO Code
Every container gets a unique ISO code by the Bureau International des Containers et du Transport Intermodal (BIC). This helps with identifying each container and which country it originates from according to this international system.
Check Digit
This digit is placed all the way at the end. It helps crewmen or women to determine if the ID is legitimate or not. The unique serial number is placed into a calculator to check whether it is a valid number. The check digit is what will reveal if it is or isn’t.
Maximum Weight
This shows the maximum weight a container can be. Typically, the maximum can be over 67,000 pounds.
Weight Container
The weight of a container is listed on the shipment as well. The manufacturer provides this so that each shipment doesn’t get confused and placed on ships that are too small. They are typically 4,700 pounds.
Maximum Weight of Package
This is the maximum payload of weight that can be placed in each container. While a shipment crewman may consider the weight of both the container and its contents, this would only result in a maximum for the weight of its contents alone.
Maximum Volume of Items
This is the cubic volume that the container has. It shows what capacity it can allow and how much can be packed into each container.
Repair Recommendation
Every container is regularly inspected. After the five-year mark, it has to be reviewed to make sure it is still in good condition. If there is no ACEP sticker or an examination date scheduled after its last shipment, this container shouldn’t be used at all. The repair commendation placard recommends how the container should be fixed and also when the next inspection is due.
Certifications
All international transportations require a CSC plate for safety purposes. This helps to ensure that the container is up-to-date with standards and is in good condition. It also procures information such as equipment owner and manufacturing details.
Learn More About Shipping Container Markings
To learn more about ocean freight processes, you can read information by visiting Dedola’s website. The markings on the shipment containers may seem meaningless but help the freight crew track each cargo item.
