Cargo markings are the primary identification markings on an ISO container door. It consists of seven numbers and four letters that ISO allocates to identify each container by its owner. The number is unique to everyone and is registered with the Bureau International des Containers (BIC), Paris. If you are interested in international cargo transportation , the interstate standard for coding, identification and marking of containers is DIN EN ISO 6346 from January 1996.
Types of markings and application methods
Cargo marking according to DSTU can be as follows:
- Fragile item, handle with care.
- Keep away from direct sunlight.
- Keep dry.
- Temperature restrictions.
- Perishable products.
- Hermetically sealed.
- Open the package only in the specified location.
- Protect from radioactive sources.
- Do not use forklift or other handling signs here.
It is also possible to indicate that the cargo is not stackable. Other loads are not stacked on the marked load. Application methods:
- Stamping.
Stamping – marking of metal loads. Erased stamped signs can be restored in approximately 1/3 of cases due to deep deformations of the metal structure. To apply marks using the stamping method, a flat surface is required. If the surface is uneven or made of a very hard material, a more complex micropercussion process (sometimes computer controlled) is used. - Casting.
The casting method is applied directly to the molds used to make the parts of the product. Molding is also used for plastic and composite materials where stamping is not practical. Casting is not suitable for marking serial numbers, which must be unique for each product. - Mechanical engraving.
This technique is used quite widely. Using electric discharge treatment, in which the surface layer is heated and evaporated by a continuous electrical discharge. There may be physical limitations when applying information to certain surfaces and materials. For example, composite materials. - Laser marking of cargo.
The laser allows you to mark all types of surfaces by burning and does not require physical contact with the surface. It also allows you to treat areas that are otherwise inaccessible, as well as fragile parts. The method can be used for composite materials or plastics, as well as hardened metals.
Features of dangerous goods labeling
The Dangerous Goods Labeling Procedure is a definition that governs the communication of hazards associated with cargo during transport. Potential hazards, the special nature of goods requiring sorting, storage conditions, etc. are communicated through signs, labels, plates and documents. The standard for self-adhesive labels must be followed. The durability of the marking must be such that this information can be identified on packages that have aged for at least three months. If a package contains more than one dangerous goods, it must be marked for all dangerous goods contained in it, in accordance with the requirements and rules for their classification.
Labels must be in the shape of a square rotated at a 45 degree angle (diamond shaped) with a minimum size of 100mm by 100mm. Should have a 5mm line inside the edge and parallel to it. The line on the top half of the label should be the same color as the symbol, and the line on the bottom half should be the same color as the design in the bottom corner. Must be displayed against a background of a contrasting color or have either a dotted or solid outer border. The color of the label is very important because the color, along with the symbols, directly indicates the type of hazard and classes of the shipment.