ISO container

intermodality

The term intermodality refers to the fact that the specially manufactured containers can be used on different modes of transport without the load having to be unloaded or reloaded. The modes of transport can be ships, trucks or even trains.

Intermodal containers are characterized by a number of design features. These ensure that the containers can withstand demanding transport, are easy to handle and can be stacked. They are immediately recognizable by their individual and unique ISO 6346 reporting symbol . Each container has its own number, which consists of four capital letters and a prefix, which in turn stands for the owner of the container. This is followed by six digits and a check digit. The reporting symbol is attached to the five outer sides. The following questions can be answered by the reporting symbol:

• Who is the manufacturer?
• Who is the owner?
• What use is the container approved for?
• Is it a hazardous goods container?

By the way: The words freight container, shipping container or sea container are used synonymously.

purpose

Intermodal ISO containers are intended to ensure efficient and safe storage, as well as efficient and safe transport of materials and goods in global container traffic.

Advantages

• Diverse and flexible use: ships, trucks, trains
• Special protection of the goods after sealing
• High security
• Low energy consumption

container types

Freight containers come in different types and sizes. The majority, 90%, are Dry Freight and General Purpose models. They have a standard length of 6 m or 12 m and a height of 2.6 m or 2.9 m. Containers with a height of 2.9 m are called high cube or high-cube containers .

A common unit of measurement for container dimensions is the foot (ft). The most common containers have an external length of 20 ft (6.058m), 40 ft (12.192m) or 45 ft (13.716m) high cube.

To ensure that the containers can be filled efficiently, the internal dimensions were chosen so that pallets can fit inside: 1140 x 1140 mm. There is 7 cm of room for maneuvering. In the European market, there are containers that have slightly wider internal dimensions, so that two Euro pallets can be placed side by side. Even if there are standard dimensions and types, the intensity of use of the respective models differs depending on the market. For example, 45 high-cube containers are often used in the North American market. In the European market, 20ft or 40ft containers are mainly used.

By the way: The empty weight of a standard 20 ft container is 2300 kg, that of a standard 40 ft container is 3900 kg. The payload of 20-foot containers is around 21.7 t, with a volume of 33 m³. A 40-foot container holds 26.5 t with a volume of 67.6 m³.

Aufau

ISO containers are usually made of steel. They are assembled as follows:

• The basic frame is welded from particularly stable steel parts
• Struts are now inserted lengthwise into the floor
• The container floor is mounted on the struts - it consists of several layers of wood that have been treated with protective agents
• The walls are made of trapezoidal steel sheet
• Finally, the container roof and doors are attached
• The container is painted and provided with its individual container number

Optionally, forklift pockets can be attached to an ISO container, as well as gooseneck tunnels or a seal hole

• Forklift pockets: For 20-foot containers, reinforced holes can be made in the side of the underbody so that an empty container can be lifted and moved
• Gooseneck tunnel: This extension provides additional guidance, starts under the container at the blind wall and ensures that swap body trucks can hold the container safely
• Seal hole: The door lock has an extra hole; it is suitable for inserting approved and disposable customs seals

By the way: In addition to the various types, there are also different designs, so-called special versions. These include, for example, refrigerated containers. They are used for perishable cargo, such as food. There are also tank containers. They are designed for liquid or gaseous substances. Car containers are also used for transporting cars. There are also residential containers - temporary accommodation - and also containers for transporting animals.

transport safety and protection

The containers have various security features. Here is a brief overview:

• closure as protection against seawater and driving rain
• Locking mechanism to prevent accidental opening during transport
• Sealing of customs and carrier

In addition, other safety features may be present:

• detection and signaling device for opening alarm
• measuring and signaling device for location reports
• measuring and signaling device for transport conditions

See also

• loading equipment