Glossary > #iC 81

Shipping Container iC 81

Shipping container iC 81 designates a specific type of intermodal transport container certified for railway transport within the “InterContainer” (IC) system. The designation “81” signifies certification by the Austrian Federal Railways (Österreichische Bundesbahnen, ÖBB). This certification ensures that the container meets international safety and operational standards for railways, enabling seamless transport across railway networks managed by the Austrian Federal Railways and others in Europe.

The term “shipping container” emphasizes its primary purpose: efficient transport of goods across various transportation modes, such as maritime, railway, and road transport. IC 81 certification ensures special compatibility with the railway segment of intermodal logistics, which is particularly valuable in the interconnected European transport system.

Key Features of Shipping Container iC 81

1. Intermodal Compatibility

Intermodal containers, including shipping container iC 81, are designed for seamless use across various transport modes (ships, trains, and trucks) without the need to unload cargo, which significantly reduces handling time and costs. Their standardized dimensions ensure compatibility with global transport systems and infrastructure, such as cranes, ports, and railway stations.

2. IC Code System

The “IC” code stands for “InterContainer,” an international certification system determining the suitability of containers for railway transport. Numbers following “IC” identify the certifying railway organization:

  • IC 81 = Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB)
  • IC 80 = Deutsche Bahn (German Railways)
  • IC 87 = SNCF (French National Railways)
  • IC 70 = British Rail

These codes ensure that containers meet specific safety, dimensional, and operational standards for the respective railway networks. Containers must comply with the standards of the International Union of Railways (UIC), which guarantees their compatibility with railway transport.

3. Compliance with ISO Standards

Shipping container iC 81 complies with ISO 6346 standard, an international standard for coding, identification, and marking of transport containers. This guarantees uniformity in dimensions, structural integrity, and safety elements, facilitating their use across various transport modes globally.

4. CSC Label

Each container is equipped with a CSC (Convention for Safe Containers) label, which serves as proof of compliance with international safety standards. The CSC label contains key information, such as:

5. Durable Construction

Shipping containers iC 81 are manufactured from structural steel resistant to weather conditions, enabling them to withstand demanding conditions, including corrosion from seawater, extreme temperatures, and heavy loads. They are also equipped with standardized corner fittings for secure handling, stacking, and transport.

Technical Specifications

1. Container Dimensions

  • Standard lengths: 20 feet and 40 feet
  • Width: 8 feet (2.44 meters)
  • Height: Standard height (8’6″) or High Cube (9’6″)
  • These dimensions comply with ISO standards, ensuring compatibility with cranes, ships, railway cars, and trucks worldwide.

2. Weight Capacities

  • Maximum gross weight: Typically 30,480 kilograms for standard containers.
  • Tare: Ranges between 2,250 and 4,000 kilograms depending on material and construction.
  • Load capacity: Usable weight after deducting tare, typically around 26,000–28,000 kilograms.

3. Markings

  • Container number: Unique alphanumeric identifier consisting of:
    1. Owner code (e.g., HLX for Hapag-Lloyd)
    2. Equipment category identifier (“U” for transport containers)
    3. Serial number
    4. Check digit (verifies container number)
  • ISO code: Indicates container size and type (e.g., 22G1 for 20-foot universal container).
  • IC code: Specifies railway transport certification (e.g., IC 81 for Austrian Federal Railways).
  • Safety markings: Includes maximum stacking weight, handling instructions, and load capacity.

Significance of IC 81 Certification

1. Safety Assurance

IC 81 certification ensures that containers meet strict safety and structural standards required for railway transport. This reduces the risk of cargo damage or accidents during transport.

2. Operational Flexibility

Certification by the Austrian Federal Railways enables iC 81 containers to operate seamlessly in the Austrian railway network and other European railway systems, making them highly versatile for international logistics.

3. Global Trade Efficiency

By being integrated into the intermodal transport system, containers certified IC 81 enable efficient movement of goods across continents, minimizing delays and reducing handling costs.

4. Environmental Benefits

Railway transport is one of the most environmentally friendly methods of cargo transport. The use of containers certified IC in railway networks supports sustainable logistics and reduces carbon emissions.

Uses of Shipping Container iC 81

1. International Trade

  • Essential for transporting goods across oceans, railways, and highways. Its intermodal design enables seamless transitions between various transport modes.

2. Railway Transport

  • IC 81 certification makes it ideal for railway transport in Austria and throughout Europe, ensuring compliance with railway regulations.

3. Storage

  • Often used as a secure and durable storage solution in various industries, from retail to construction.

4. Special Modifications

By using containers with IC 81 certification, companies gain access to safe, efficient, and sustainable logistics solutions necessary for modern global trade.