Understanding CSC Plates on Shipping Containers
If you're buying, selling, or transporting goods using shipping containers, it's vital to understand CSC plates. These standardised plates, or CSC panels, are attached to containers to provide crucial information about their safety and condition. A container displaying a valid CSC plate is referred to as "CSC plated" and meets international safety standards for shipping and handling.
The Origins of the CSC Plate
CSC stands for "Container Safety Convention." It was introduced in 1972 by the United Nations and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to establish a global safety standard for shipping containers. Before this, shipping practices were unregulated, leading to unsafe conditions and unreliable transport.
Today, manufacturers fit CSC plates to containers after undergoing rigorous safety tests. Owners must then ensure containers are regularly inspected and the CSC plate updated, similar to vehicles requiring an MOT certificate.
In the UK, inspections must be performed by licensed bodies such as Bureau Veritas or the International Institute of Container Lessors (IICL).
Where to Find the CSC Plate
The CSC plate is typically bolted outside the container’s left door. It must be readily visible for checks during transport and customs inspections.
Information Displayed on a CSC Plate
Every CSC plate provides key safety and identification details, including:
- Container model type
- CSC rule version under which approval was granted
- Manufacturer’s serial number
- Container identity number
- Manufacturer’s name and address
- Date of manufacture
- Timber treatment details for the container floor
- Approval number from the classification society
- Maximum gross mass (the maximum safe loaded weight)
- Allowable stacking load for 1.8G forces
- First maintenance examination date
- Racking test strength – how much force the container frame can withstand
CSC Plate Design Requirements
To ensure long-term durability and easy visibility, CSC plates must meet specific design standards:
- Constructed from non-corrosive, fireproof material
- Minimum dimensions of 20cm x 10cm
- "CSC SAFETY APPROVAL" letters at least 8mm high
- All other text and numbers at least 5mm high
- Text must be permanently stamped or embossed
- Text and background colours must contrast with the container for easy reading
More detailed guidelines are available from the Bureau International des Containers (BIC).
What Happens if a Container Doesn't Have a CSC Plate?
A shipping container cannot legally be transported internationally without a valid CSC plate. Customs will refuse entry, and shipping companies will not handle the unit. CSC certification is crucial to guarantee the container’s structural integrity and ensure the safety of cargo handlers and goods.
If you're buying or hiring a container for overseas use, always confirm it has an up-to-date CSC plate.
Need Containers with Valid CSC Plates?
At Shipping Containers of Grangemouth, every container we supply for shipping comes with a valid CSC plate. We can also assist with inspections, renewals, and advice for maintaining compliance.
New and used quality shipping containers are available now!
We hold stock at our Felixstowe depot, which is ready for quick delivery across Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, and surrounding areas.
