Overview
EN ISO 17262:2012 (ISO 17262:2012) is an international standard for Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) that specifies generic numbering and data structures for unambiguous identification of equipment used in intermodal goods transport. Known as the Intermodal Goods Transport Numbering and Data Structures, the standard defines data models independently of any physical data carrier and uses Abstract Syntax Notation One (ASN.1) for modelling. It supersedes CEN ISO/TS 17262:2003 and focuses on interoperable, extensible data definitions rather than physical interfaces, storage/transmission headers or security policy implementation.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Data modelling with ASN.1: The standard provides ASN.1 modules (normative Annex A) to describe identifiers and related data structures, enabling consistent interpretation across systems.
- Carrier-independent definitions: Data elements are defined abstractly so they can be encoded on RFID tags, barcodes, or other AEI/AVI media without changing the logical structure.
- Exclusions: Physical aspects (interfaces, dimensions) and protocol framing/storing details (headers, checksums) are intentionally excluded to keep the scope focused on data semantics.
- Registration authority requirement: To prevent identifier collisions and provide controlled distribution of number series, the registration authority mechanism from ISO 14816 applies.
- Optimised encodings supported: The standard enables use of compact encodings such as ASN.1 Packed Encoding Rules (PER) for efficient transmission and storage.
- Annexes and examples: Informative annexes include AEI application examples, ASN.1 encoding guidance and sample encodings to assist implementers.
Practical applications and typical users
Who uses ISO 17262:2012:
- Logistics providers and freight forwarders implementing AEI systems for track & trace of load units and swap bodies.
- Port, terminal and rail/road intermodal operators deploying automatic identification (AEI/AVI) at access control and terminal monitoring points.
- ITS system integrators and software vendors creating AEI readers, AEI managers and back-office services that interpret interoperable identifiers.
- Standards bodies and solution architects aligning multi-modal transport data models across projects.
Practical applications:
- Unambiguous identification of containers, swap bodies and transport objects across modes (road, rail, sea).
- Encoding intermodal identifiers onto RFID tags or other media while maintaining interoperability between heterogeneous AEI systems.
- Enabling efficient on-the-move scanning and backend processing using compact PER encodings.
Related standards
- ISO/IEC 8824 / 8825 (ASN.1 specifications)
- ISO 14816 (AEI numbering and registration authority)
- ISO 17621 (AEI architecture and terminology)
- ISO 26683-2 (Freight land conveyance content)
- EN 13044 (Swap bodies coding and marking)
Keywords: Intelligent transport systems, Automatic vehicle and equipment identification, intermodal goods transport, ASN.1, PER, AEI, AVI, numbering and data structures, ISO 17262.