ISO 3874:2017

Overview

ISO 3874:2017 - Series 1 freight containers - Handling and securing - defines standardized methods for handling, lifting, landing, stacking and securing Series 1 freight containers built and tested to ISO 1496. The standard covers procedures for both loaded and empty containers, specifies lifting conditions (Clause 6), and describes securing requirements for sea, road and rail transport (Clause 9). ISO 3874:2017 aligns terminology with modern cargo transport guidance and updates securing-device definitions and tests to reflect current practice.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Handling methods and lifting conditions: Detailed methods for specified lifting techniques (Clause 6) including top-lift spreaders, top/bottom lifts with slings, multiple side-lift and end-lift methods, and forklift handling.
• Landing, supporting and stacking: Requirements for safe landing, support points and ground stacking (Clauses 7–8).
• Securing during transport: Guidance on securing on board ship (forces, effects and securing equipment), plus methods for road and rail securing including terminal and public road operations (Clause 9).
• Terminology and definitions: Harmonized terms (Clause 3) such as empty/packed container, centre of gravity concepts, and definitions for twistlocks and securing devices.
• Annexes on securing hardware and tests:
  • Annex A - Twistlocks: functions, dimensions, strength and testing.
  • Annex B - Stacking fittings: functions, dimensions, strength and testing.
  • Annex C - Lashing rod systems and tensioning devices.
  • Annex D - Securing fittings (informative).
  • Annex E - Strength requirements of securing fittings.
  • Annex F - Guidance on twistlock sizes and positioning.
• Normative references: Cross-references to ISO 1496, ISO 668, ISO 1161, ISO 830 and the IMO/ILO/UNECE CTU Code for packing guidance.

Practical applications and users

ISO 3874:2017 is essential for professionals involved in containerized cargo operations:

• Port and terminal operators - safe handling, lifting procedures and stacking plans.
• Shipping lines and ship stowage planners - container securing on board and selection of securing equipment.
• Road and rail carriers - tie-down, twistlock and lashing requirements for vehicle and wagon operations.
• Container and equipment manufacturers - design and testing of corner fittings, twistlocks, midlocks and lashing systems.
• Safety managers and regulators - compliance, inspection procedures and operational safety guidance.

Related standards

• ISO 1496 (Series 1 container specification and testing)
• ISO 668 (Classification, dimensions and ratings)
• ISO 1161 (Corner and intermediate fittings)
• ISO 830 (Freight container vocabulary)
• IMO/ILO/UNECE CTU Code (Packing of Cargo Transport Units)

Keywords: ISO 3874:2017, series 1 freight containers, handling and securing, twistlocks, container lifting methods, container securing, container standards.