Shipping Containers are known by many different names: conex, cargo container, sea van, dry box, freight containers, etc. In the container industry, they are referred to as ISO Containers or Intermodal Containers. But what exactly does that mean?

ISO or Intermodal Containers are a large standardized shipping container, designed and built for intermodal freight transport, meaning these containers can be used across different modes of transport – from ship to rail to truck – without unloading and reloading their cargo.

Containers must conform to ISO (International Organization for Standardization) specifications. These standards relate directly to how the containers are built and to guarantee they will withstand extreme environments. It also ensures the containers meet the size and durability requirements, which allow them to be stacked safely and uniformly on steamships and railcars.

This is true for all units from the 20 ft containers up to 53’ High Cube Containers, regardless of original door configurations (like double door containers or open side containers).

Any container being used for freight transport overseas or for intermodal rail transport must be certified by the International Convention for Safe Containers or the CSC. The goal of the CSC is to formalize international safety requirements for structural design and consistent inspection and maintenance of cargo containers.

When a container is manufactured, the CSC plate is valid for 5 years. From the point forward, if the container is to remain certified for shipping, it must be reinspected at least every 30 months (by a licensed/certified maritime surveyor).

Below is an example of a CSC plate on a container.

Containers that are being used for general storage purposes do not require a CSC certification. This is only required if the container is being shipped internationally or transported by rail.

For more information on containers and specifications contact the team at Container Technology at (877) 670-5901 or submit out an online quote. Let us help you find the right container for both your storage and/or your shipping needs.

Container Technology is a member of the Container Alliance Partnership offering portable storage containers for sale as well as shipping containers for rent across north America, for more information visit Container Alliance.

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Shipping Containers 101 - The Basics

Intro to ISO Containers