ISO Size-Type Code
The ISO size-type code is a four-character code on the container door that describes its size and type. The first character gives the length (2 = 20 ft, 4 = 40 ft, L = 45 ft), the second the height (2 = 8'6", 5 = 9'6" high cube), and the last two the type (G1 dry, R1 reefer, U1 open top, P1/P3 flat rack). Examples are 22G1, 42G1, 45G1 and 22R1. Bookings, bay plans and terminal EDI messages all use it.
Related terms
- ISO 6346
ISO 6346 (2022 edition) is the international standard for coding, identifying and marking containers.
- Dry Container (General Purpose)
A dry or general-purpose container is the standard closed steel box for general cargo that needs no temperature control, coded 22G1 (20GP) or 42G1 (40GP) under ISO 6346.
- High Cube Container (40HC)
A high cube container is 9'6" (2,896 mm) high externally, one foot taller than a standard 8'6" box.
- BAPLIE (Bayplan/Stowage Plan Occupied and Empty Locations Message)
BAPLIE is a UN/EDIFACT electronic message maintained by SMDG for exchanging bay plan data between shipping lines, terminals and planners.
Covered in these guides
Container Types and ISO Codes: Container Numbers, Check Digits and Type Codes
The main container types (dry, high cube, reefer, open top, flat rack, tank), how to read an ISO 6346 number, calculate the check digit and decode codes like 22G1.
6 min read Container sizes & capacityFlat Rack Containers: 20FR & 40FR Dimensions, OOG Cargo and Concentrated Loads
A guide to 20FR and 40FR flat racks covering fixed vs collapsible ends, over-width and over-height cargo, concentrated loads, lashing points and OOG charges.
6 min read Container sizes & capacityOpen Top Containers: 20OT & 40OT Dimensions, Tarpaulins and Over-Height Cargo
A guide to 20OT and 40OT open top containers covering dimensions, tarpaulin and roof bows, crane top loading, over-height cargo and lashing.
6 min read