As part of the revised 13044 standard for the marking of intermodal loading units, swap bodies and semi-trailers are marked with the ILU code. The scope of application of the ILU code is limited to intermodal loading units that move exclusively within the European region. "European region" refers to the European states and close neighboring countries that can be reached by road, rail, inland waterway or short sea shipping. It is assigned by the "International Union of Road-Rail Combined Transport Companies UIRR". The marking is compatible with the BIC code for freight containers.
The ILU code, consisting of the owner key, registration number and check digit, should be arranged as shown in the adjacent image. The ILU code must be affixed at least on the two side walls and on the roof, optionally also on the front sides and a second time rotated by 180 degrees on the roof.
- The standardized ILU code is better suited for IT systems and thus ensures higher data quality throughout the entire order processing procedure. Thanks to the check digit, errors are automatically detected when the ID number is entered. The effort required to clarify input and transmission errors is considerably reduced.
- EN 13044 strictly separates owner identification from the marking required for railroad operations. The yellow code license plate has therefore been redesigned and now only contains technical information such as profile, length class, XL code, etc. This separation enables codification ex works. Every newly built rail-compatible loading unit can therefore be provided with the yellow plate by the manufacturer, even if it is not initially intended for direct use in combined road-rail transport.
- The owner of a loading unit marked with the ILU code can be identified more easily, as the ILU codes are published in the same way as the BIC codes.
- The marking of containers and semi-trailers with the standardized ILU code can also be used for pure road transport if required.
Only owners of intermodal loading units can apply for an ILU code owner-key. The term "owner" includes the keeper or lessee of intermodal loading units, insofar as the keeper, lessee or operator has exclusive and full power of disposal over the intermodal loading units as an owner.
Registration for an ILU code is quick and easy online at www.ilu-code.eu. More information on the ILU code and the procedure is also available on the UIRR website at www.uirr.com and in our information sheet on the subject of "Marking of intermodal loading units in Europe".
Find out everything you need to know about the ILU code.