Container Identification Number

The identification system provides uniform international identification of containers, in documentation and in communication associated with the movement of containers from door to door.

The letters and numerals of the owner code, equipment category identifier, serial number and check digit shall be not less than 100 mm (4 in) high.

All characters shall be of proportionate width and thickness, they shall be durable and in a colour contrasting with that of the container.

What is BIC code

It consists of:

  • The owner prefix (BIC code): three capital letters of the Latin alphabet to indicate the owner or principal operator of the container,
  • The equipment category identifier: one capital letter as follows:
    – U for all freight containers,
    – J for detachable freight container-related equipment,
    – Z for trailers and chassis,
  • The serial number: six Arabic numerals, left at owner‘s or operator‘s option,
  • The check digit: one Arabic numeral providing a means of validating the recording and transmission accuracies of the owner code and serial number. Check-digit calculator.
Marking of Containers
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