Container grades and condition
container condition report
A container condition report is a written record of a container's condition at one point in time. It lists findings such as dents, holes, rust, floor and door issues, usually with photos. Operators use it when units leave or return, using criteria such as the IICL inspection guide.
Why it matters
Condition reports protect both sides of a rental. A report and photos at delivery show how the unit looked when it left. A matching report at pickup shows any new damage. Fleets also use reports for buying, selling and repair planning. IICL publishes inspection criteria that help separate normal wear from damage. A common mistake is to write vague notes such as good condition. Name the location of each issue, such as roof panel two or left door gasket. Add a date, unit ID and the person who inspected it. Clear reports cut disputes and make damage waiver claims easier to settle.
Read: How to price a container rental fleet
Definition source: iicl.org
Related terms
container inspection
A container inspection is a check of a container's outside, inside, doors, floor and roof for damage, leaks and wear. Buyers do it before purchase. Operators do it when units go out and come back. It can be a quick look or a formal review to a standard.
container survey
A container survey is a formal inspection of a container by a qualified surveyor, with a written result. Surveys check that a container meets safety standards, such as the CSC, before shipping. They can also support valuation and damage assessment. Costs vary by provider.
IICL 6
IICL 6 is the common short name for the IICL Guide for Container Equipment Inspection, sixth edition, published in 2016. It gives criteria for deciding when damage to a container needs repair. It also simplifies container inspection steps at depots around the world.
damage waiver
A damage waiver is an optional fee in a rental agreement that limits what the renter owes if the rented unit is damaged. RentalModo's guide gives sample contract language saying a Loss and Damage Waiver, if elected, limits liability for physical damage only. Terms and exclusions differ by company.
used container
A used container is a container that has served a working life, usually at sea, before being sold or rented for storage. Sellers grade used units, often as cargo worthy, wind and water tight or as-is. The grade affects price, appearance and how well the unit keeps out water.
ISO 6346
ISO 6346 is the international standard for coding, identification and marking of freight containers. It defines the container identification system, with a way to check that an ID was written correctly. It also defines size and type codes and the operational marks shown on the container.
For the industry
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