I'm excited to share some important information about a key aspect of container transportation, especially when it comes to European railways - the IC mark.

The Significance of the IC Mark

Any container that adheres to the regulations set by the International Union of Railways is eligible to receive this mark. This mark is not just a simple label; it's an absolute necessity for containers that are to be transported on European railways. It serves as a crucial pass, ensuring seamless movement across the European railway network.

Components of the IC Mark

The IC mark is composed of two main parts. The upper part features "ic", which stands for the International Union of Railways (Union Internationale des Chemins de fer, commonly abbreviated as UIC). This clearly identifies the governing body related to the mark. The lower part of the mark consists of a number. This number represents the member code of each UIC member country. For example, 33 corresponds to China, 42 to Japan, 80 to Germany, 81 to Austria, and 87 to France. When you see the IC mark on a container, it tells you exactly which country's UIC certification the container has obtained.

Global Acceptance and Its Implications

One of the great things about containers and the UIC's certification system is their global acceptance. Once a container applies for and receives certification from any member country of the International Union of Railways, it gains the privilege of being transported by railways all around the world. This widespread acceptance streamlines international trade and logistics, making it easier for us to move goods across borders efficiently.

CIMC Equilink is a company that sells container spare parts, new and used containers, trailer spare parts, and other logistics tools to customers worldwide. If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding our markings or container offerings, you can tell us your needs and questions by emailing info.equilink@cimc.com or by submitting a quick quote. We are honored to serve you and look forward to continuing to collaborate effectively to ensure the smooth flow of goods.