The identification number of a container, commonly referred to as the container number, has a unique characteristic, and its coding rules comply with the relevant regulations of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) (Standard Number: ISO 6346). Below is a detailed description of the container number and its owner code application:
The container number consists of 11 characters, divided into four parts:
Owner and Operator Information: Composed of 3 letters representing the identity of the owner or operator. This part of the code is specified by the owner and registered with the Bureau International des Containers (BIC).
Equipment Category Identifier: The fourth letter following the owner code, indicating the type of container. The most common code is "U", representing all standard containers. Other codes like "J" represent containers with detachable equipment, "Z" indicates container trailers and chassis.
Serial Number: Consists of 6 digits, used to distinguish between different containers of the same owner. If the effective digits are less than 6, leading zeros are added to ensure each container has a unique serial number.
Check Digit: Comes after the serial number, represented by displayed in a bordered container. The check digit is calculated using specific verification rules to validate the owner code and serial number.
The owner code must be applied for and registered through the Bureau International des Containers (BIC). The application process typically includes the following steps. For specific information, you can visit the BIC official website (http://www.bic-code.org) or contact the BIC customer service for detailed guidance:
The applicant prepares the necessary materials, such as the application form, commercial invoice, customs declaration, copy or confirmation of the bill of lading, etc.
Submit the application materials to BIC and wait for BIC to review them.
Upon approval, BIC will issue an official quotation to the applicant.
The applicant arranges for the payment and pays the required application fees.
After receiving the remittance, BIC will issue a draft certificate for the applicant's confirmation.
Once the draft is confirmed to be correct, BIC will issue the official certificate, marking the completion of the owner code registration.
In summary, the container identification number (container number) is unique and complies with ISO standards (Standard Number: ISO 6346). The owner code, as an important part of the container number, needs to be applied and registered through the Bureau International des Containers (BIC).
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