If we pay attention, we can often see codes on Container trucks. So have you ever wondered what those Container symbol codes are? In this article, let’s learn more about these types of codes together!
What really are the codes on those types of Container trucks?
Due to the characteristics of Containers being transported globally and used for international shipping transactions, special symbols are needed to facilitate transactions. The symbols on the Container are distinguishing characters Different types of Containers . Includes codes and symbols on Container vehicles:
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Identification System
The recognition system includes 4 elements:
Owner Code consisting of 3 capital letters registered with the International Register.
Device type symbol: According to the 3 letters U, J, Z corresponding to the types of devices:
- U: Cargo containers.
- J: Equipment for disassembling cargo containers
- Z: Strawberry pull or Mooc
Serial number: is the Container number, consisting of 6 digits. If the Serial number does not have enough digits, 0s will be added in front to make it sufficient. For example, if the Container number is 1234, you can add a 0 in front to make 001234.
Check digit: is a digit, usually behind the Serial number, whose function is to check the accuracy of the preceding character string.
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Size and Type Codes
Size code: Contains 2 characters, either letters or numbers. Character 1 represents the Container length. The second character represents the height of that Container.
Style code: Contains 2 characters. Character 1 represents the Container type, while character 2 represents the related characteristic of the Container type.
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Operational Markings
About mandatory signs: Container load, electrical hazard warning, high container.
Regarding non-mandatory signs: Maximum net mass, country code.
Code symbols of Container vehicles:
We will often see Container Serial numbers such as: 26G1, 49R1, 32T6,…
In which their letters are distinguished into the following groups: G, T, R, L,…
- G: Regular containers.
- R: Cold container.
- U: Open container
- T: Tank containers
Regarding the number behind the symbol, if it is 0, the Container can be opened at one or both ends. If it is number 1, there will be a ventilation door above.
The first two numbers will represent the Container length, for example: 2 in 20 feet, 4 in 40 feet.
For example: YULU 200458 – 22G1: Read as YUL 200458 cont. Usually 20 Feet with ventilation door above.
Other types of codes on Containers:
- CSC safety certification plate
- Customs Acceptance Sign
- Information on wood treatment (flooring)
- Dangerous goods label (if any)
- Symbol of the international railway organization UIC
- Registration company logo
- Test plate (of registration), stacking height
- Brand name (Maersk, MSC…), logo, slogan (if any)
- Manufacturer’s mark (CIMC, VTC…)
- Notes on container wall materials (corten steel), repair instructions.
Symbols on Containers for customs declaration.
- MAX. GROSS: Total maximum allowable weight of the container, including when packed. Expressed in 2 units: Kg and LB
- TARE: Net weight of the container shell.
- NET (Or PAYLOAD or MAX.C.W): Maximum weight of goods entering the container.
- CU.CAP (CUBIC CAPACITY): Number of cubic meters in the container, calculated in cubic meters and cubic feet
