Container basics
ISO container
An ISO container is a freight container built to the ISO series 1 standards, such as ISO 668 for classification and dimensions and ISO 1496 for specification and testing. The standards let boxes fit the same ships, trucks and handling gear worldwide.
Why it matters
Buyers use the phrase to mean a standard shipping container, rather than a custom or domestic box. An ISO container has standard outside sizes and corner fittings for lifting and stacking. That makes planning easier for delivery trucks, forklifts and cranes. A common mistake is to assume the label means a specific condition or age. ISO describes design and size, not quality. A 15-year-old rusty unit and a one-trip unit can both be ISO containers. Another mistake is to call any steel storage unit ISO. Some mobile storage units and trailers use other sizes and fittings. Ask for outside and inside measurements, the unit ID and the grade.
Read: Shipping container sizes and dimensions for rental fleets
Definition source: iso.org
Related terms
ISO 668
ISO 668 is the international standard that classifies series 1 freight containers by their external dimensions. It sets the matching ratings, which include maximum gross mass, and gives minimum internal and door opening sizes for some container types. It covers containers meant for intercontinental traffic.
ISO 1496
ISO 1496 is a series of international standards for the specification and testing of series 1 freight containers. Part 1 covers general cargo containers for general purposes, including totally enclosed boxes and some vented or open top types. Other parts cover tank, thermal, dry bulk and platform containers.
shipping container
A shipping container is a standardized steel box used to move freight by ship, rail and truck without unloading the goods. Most are rectangular, closed boxes with doors at one end. Many are reused for storage after their sea service ends.
standard container
A standard container is a regular-height dry container, usually 8 feet 6 inches tall outside, as opposed to a high cube. Carrier listings give dry 20-foot and 40-foot specifications at 8 feet 6 inches. Sellers use the word standard with some variation.
corner casting
A corner casting is a cast steel fitting at each corner of a container. Eight of them sit at the corners. Cranes, twistlocks and lashing gear grip them to lift, stack and secure the box. They are also called corner fittings.
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.
For the industry
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