Each container number is unique

It is estimated that there are currently around 25 million sea containers on the world's oceans, which are constantly being transported back and forth between the various continents. This huge number of containers is the basis of global trade and forms the backbone of the modern logistics industry. What makes these containers particularly remarkable, however, is the fact that every single one of them can be clearly identified at any time and anywhere. And this despite the fact that they are travelling the vast oceans every day.

Each standard sea container has a unique container number that gives it its identity. This number is designed in such a way that it is unique worldwide and enables the container to be precisely identified at all times. Even before the first sea voyage, each container receives this labelling, which is affixed to the sides and roof of the container. The manufacturer ensures that the number is clearly visible and permanently applied or affixed.

But what exactly is behind this container number? It is made up of a total of four fixed elements, each of which has a specific meaning and enables precise identification.

The structure of a standard container number is as follows:

ICO U 514003 0

• ICO: These letters represent the so-called owner key.
• U: This stands for the product group key.
• 514003: The six-digit serial number of the container.
• 0: The check digit.

1. owner code (Owner Code)

The owner code is the first part of the container number and consists of three capital letters, which are chosen from A to Z. This code is assigned by the International Container Bureau BIC (Bureau International des Containers) in Paris in accordance with the ISO standard. Each container owned by a company or operator must have its own unique owner code, which is only issued once worldwide. However, a company may have several owner codes if it has different subsidiaries or business units that operate containers. If the owner code is missing, the container can no longer be uniquely identified, which would lead to problems with tracking and management.

2. product group key

The product group key follows the owner key and consists of a single letter. This letter describes the type of container and indicates which category the container belongs to:

• U: This letter stands for all types of standard containers.
• J: This code identifies equipment that can be attached to containers, such as container tariffs or accessories.
• Z: The letter Z is used for trailers and chassis that are often used in combination with containers.
• R: This marking stands for containers that have been manufactured for special purposes or applications.

3. six-digit serial number

The serial number is a unique, six-digit number that identifies each container. It makes it possible to track a container uniquely, regardless of how many containers of a certain type or manufacturer exist. This serial number is assigned by the manufacturer and is also unique worldwide.

4. check digit

Finally, a check digit is added. This number is determined using a mathematical procedure and helps to avoid errors when entering the container number. If a transposed number or other error is made during input, the check digit will not match, which is immediately recognised as an error.

Thanks to this unique and detailed structure of container numbers, it is possible not only to trace the origin and owner of a container, but also to determine its current location at any time. Even people who are neither shipowners nor forwarders can easily track a container. Using websites such as Searatec.com, the container number can be entered and the container can be tracked worldwide in real time. This is an important advance in logistics as it allows companies, carriers and even end customers to monitor their goods at all times and ensure that they are on the right track.

The development of these identification numbers has revolutionised global trade and enables efficient and error-free management of the huge number of containers that are transported across the oceans every day.

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