Rigid rectangular packages and unit load dimensions

A single overall system based on a common module is unlikely to cover all goods packaged in rigid rectangular packages in the world, because of differences in the sizes, shapes, and densities of the products, great variety in handling devices, regional government legislation, etc. Recently the third edition of a standard for the dimensions of rigid rectangular packages ISO 3394 was published. This standard specifies a series of dimensions for these transport packages. The dimensions are based on the standard plan dimension (module) of 600 mm x 400 mm, 600 mm x 500 mm and 550 mm x 366 mm, as outlined in ISO 3676, which defines the plan dimensions of four series (1219 mm x 1016 mm, 1200 mm x 1000 mm, 1200 mm x 800 mm, 1100 mm x 1100 mm). Multiples and submultiples for these dimensions for packages are given. The former edition only specified one module; 600 mm x 400 mm. This standard has not been adopted as a European standard and no other European standard exists for this subject (World Packaging Standardisation Newsletter, January 2013).