Container Terms and Jargon Dictionary

This dictionary of container terms gives the definition of some common jargon pertaining to shipping containers

ACEP: Automatic Continuous Examination Programme

AS-IS: This condition should alert the buyer that there may be damage to the container that could be expensive to repair.

CW / Cargo Worthy: This quality of container can be used in containerized export shipments. Cargo worthy containers must meet standards of structural strength and be wind and water tight. Containers meeting IICL 5 standards generally are of a better quality than containers showing as just cargo worthy

CSC: International Convention for Safe Containers (1972), the international agreement for maintaining containers in safe condition, and of the Harmonized Interpretation of the CSC with the International Maritime Organization

CSC Plate: Approval of individual containers may be granted where the Administration, after examination and witnessing of tests, is satisfied that the container meets the requirements of the present Convention; the Administration, when so satisfied, shall notify the applicant in writing of approval and this notification shall entitle him to affix the Safety Approval Plate to such container.

DV / Dry Van: Standard containers simply called Dry Van.

FR or F/R: Flat Rack Container

FOT: Free on truck.

HC / High-Cube / Hi-Cube: Refers to "high-cube" containers that are 9 feet 6 inches high (9'6" / 2.8956 meters)

IMO: International Maritime Organization

ISO: International Organization for Standardization

ICS: International Chamber of Shipping

IICL: Institute of International Container Lessors

IICL-5: IICL Guide for Container Equipment Inpsection

MGW: Maximum Gross Weight

OT or O/T: Open Top Container

OS: Open Side (curtain side) Container

PES: Periodic Examination System

Single Use or One Way: These are new containers that have had one load shipped in them. By allowing a shipper to use the container for a single load, our cost to position a new container into North America is reduced significantly. These savings are reflected in the price to you.

SOC: SOC is a Shippers Own Container i.e. you as the shipper own the container rather than using one of the shipping company's containers

WWT or Wind/Water Tight: This conditional information indicates that the container is dry and suitable for storage. Regrettably, some sellers are using temporary repair methods in order to state that the container is "wind and water tight". Be sure to ask about their methods before you buy!

Warranty: Used containers are normally sold without a warranty. The best protection for a buyer is to purchase containers from a reputable supplier. Chassis King / INTERGLOBAL is a quality supplier with a total commitment to customer service. If you have questions or concerns we will handle the matter to your satisfaction.