ISO 3394:2012

Overview

ISO 3394:2012 - Packaging - Complete, filled transport packages and unit loads - Dimensions of rigid rectangular packages defines standard plan dimensions for rigid rectangular transport packages and unit loads. The standard bases package plan dimensions on modules of 600 × 400 mm, 600 × 500 mm and 550 × 366 mm, aligned with the plan-dimension series referenced in ISO 3676. ISO 3394:2012 provides a structured set of multiples and submultiples to simplify pallet patterns, stacking, handling and intermodal transport.

Key topics and requirements

• Principle: Effective outside plan dimensions (length and width) are obtained by multiplying or dividing a module by an integer, creating consistent multiples and submultiples for packaging formats.
• Modules and examples: Primary modules are 600×400, 600×500 and 550×366 mm. Examples include multiples such as 1 200×800 mm, 1 200×1 000 mm, 1 100×1 100 mm and submultiples such as 600×400 mm, 300×400 mm, 200×400 mm, etc.
• Pallet compatibility: Recommended pallet sizes (e.g. 1 200×800, 1 219×1 016, 1 100×1 100 mm) are shown so package dimensions can interlock efficiently on common pallets. Pallet dimensions are to conform with ISO 6780 requirements.
• Height: Package height is intentionally left to the discretion of the user; ISO 3394 focuses on plan dimensions (length and width).
• Tolerances: Plan dimensions and derived dimensions are treated as maximum dimensions for filled transport packages to ensure fit and handling safety.
• Interlocking arrangements: Annexes include illustrative examples of combination multiples and submultiples arranged to interlock for stable unit loads.

Practical applications

• Designing standard-sized rigid boxes, crates and containers for transport and warehousing.
• Optimizing pallet patterns and unit load layouts to maximize space utilization and reduce freight cost.
• Ensuring dimensional compatibility for intermodal transport, automated handling systems, and cross-border logistics.
• Supporting packaging specification, procurement and manufacturing decisions that aim for supply-chain interoperability.

Who should use this standard

• Packaging engineers and designers
• Logistics and supply-chain managers
• Pallet and container manufacturers
• Transport planners, freight forwarders and warehouse operators
• Standards bodies and compliance officers seeking harmonized packaging dimensions

Related standards

• ISO 3676 - Unit load dimensions (defines plan-dimension series referenced by ISO 3394)
• ISO 6780:2003 - Flat pallets for intercontinental materials handling - principal dimensions and tolerances
• ISO 21067 - Packaging - Vocabulary

Keywords: ISO 3394:2012, packaging standard, rigid rectangular packages, transport packages, unit loads, plan dimensions, module, pallet compatibility, packaging design, logistics.