TS 1357

TS 1357 is a terminology standard for series-1 freight containers, bringing together the terms and definitions used for this container family. Its focus is on classification and types, so the standard is primarily concerned with consistent naming rather than with physical design rules or performance limits.

In general technical use, freight containers are reusable transport units designed to move cargo efficiently across different modes of transport. The term “series-1” points to a widely used international container family, and clear terminology helps reduce ambiguity in transport planning, storage, handling, identification, and documentation.

Why the terminology matters

A vocabulary standard of this kind supports uniform communication by defining how related concepts should be expressed. Distinguishing between classification, type, and definition matters because these words describe different aspects of the same equipment family: one may refer to the grouping logic, another to the specific container form, and another to the explanatory meaning attached to the term. That clarity is especially valuable in logistics, training, cataloguing, and technical records.

This TSE edition is based on ISO 830 and is withdrawn. Even so, it remains a useful reference for understanding how core freight-container terminology is organised in international practice.