ILA~USMX Joint Safety Committee – OSH Circular – 2024-08 – About Intermodal Containers

ISO containers must be marked in a manner which conforms to ISO Standard 6346. That Standard requires containers to be marked with a two digit “Size” code and a two digit “Type” code.

Understanding what those codes actually mean allows us to conduct our work effectively and safely. Perhaps more importantly, when ship planners and cargo handling supervisors understand what those codes represent, they’re in a better position to ensure that the proper equipment is available to safely handle and safely stow the container(s).

In the photo at left, the first “Size” digit (4), indicates that the container is 40′ in length. The second “Size” digit (5) indicates that the container is 9’6″ high and has a standard 8′ width.

There are obviously many variations of “Size” and “Type” Codes, dependent upon the configuration of each particular container. To gain some insight into how those variations are identified by their individual digits, we provide our labor and management constituents with a link to the relevant pages of ISO Standard 6346:

ISO 6346 Size & Type Codes

Got an OSH-related question? Write to the JSC at: blueoceana@optonline.net

Working Together For The Benefit Of All

ILA-USMX OSH Circulars are devised to reflect the best possible information and guidance, and are products of digent research and the most up to date subject matter knowledge. Consequently, while the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, owing to a host of factors ILA-USMX can convey no direct or implied warranty relative to the reliance of parties upon content.

To view the OSH Circular, click here.

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