In short:
Cargo Worthy, or CW, refers to a used container that is technically suitable for transporting cargo. To qualify, components such as the frame, walls, doors, floor, understructure, and corner castings must be sufficiently secure and functional.
Cargo Worthy primarily describes the technical condition. The container may still have dents, paint damage, signs of rust, or previous repairs. A like-new appearance is not a criterion for CW status.
| Prüfbereich |
Anforderung bei Cargo Worthy |
| Tragfähigkeit |
Rahmen, Eckpfosten und Querträger müssen für den vorgesehenen Frachttransport ausreichend tragfähig sein. |
| Eckbeschläge |
Die Corner Castings müssen Umschlag, Stapelung und Sicherung mit Twistlocks ermöglichen. |
| Wände und Dach |
Keine transportkritischen Risse, Löcher oder offenen Stellen. |
| Türen und Verriegelung |
Türen müssen schließen und sich mit den vorhandenen Verriegelungsstangen sicher verriegeln lassen. |
| Dichtheit |
Der Innenraum muss die Ladung bei ordnungsgemäß geschlossenen Türen vor Wind und Niederschlag schützen. |
| Containerboden |
Der Boden darf keine gefährlichen Brüche, Löcher oder losen Bereiche aufweisen. |
| Unterboden |
Bodenrahmen und Querträger dürfen keine Schäden besitzen, welche die sichere Nutzung beeinträchtigen. |
| Reparaturen |
Fachgerechte Reparaturen sind zulässig, sofern die sichere Transportfähigkeit erhalten bleibt. |
| Optischer Zustand |
Dellen, Lackschäden, Rostspuren, Aufkleberreste und Farbabweichungen sind möglich. |
| CSC-Zulassung |
Separat zu prüfen. Die Bezeichnung Cargo Worthy ersetzt keine gültige CSC-Prüfung. |
| Nachweis |
Ein aktueller Prüfbericht oder ein CW-Zertifikat muss ausdrücklich vereinbart werden. |
When is a container considered Cargo Worthy?
A used container can be classified as Cargo Worthy if it is capable of safely holding and transporting its cargo. The following areas are primarily inspected:
- Frame and corner posts: No damage that compromises structural integrity.
- Corner castings: Suitable for handling, stacking, and twist-lock securing.
- Understructure: Cross members and floor structure are sufficiently load-bearing.
- Container floor: No dangerous cracks, holes, or loose sections.
- Walls and roof: No openings that would allow water to penetrate.
- Doors and locking mechanisms: Doors can be opened, closed, and locked securely.
- Seals: Protection against wind and rain is guaranteed.
- Repairs: Existing repairs do not compromise safe operation.
What are cargo-worthy containers used for?
Cargo-worthy containers are primarily used for pre-owned shipping containers:
- International freight transport: Following successful inspection and with valid certification.
- Domestic transport: For goods, machinery, and other cargo.
- Commercial storage: As robust storage space on business premises and construction sites.
- Industry and logistics: For supply chains, material storage, and temporary projects.
- Container conversion: As a base for workshop, technical, or equipment containers.
Comparing Cargo Worthy, WWT, and IICL
- Cargo Worthy (CW): The container is technically suitable for safe cargo transport. Signs of wear and professional repairs are possible.
- Wind and Watertight (WWT): The container is wind and watertight. However, this does not automatically mean it is approved for international cargo transport.
- IICL: The container meets stricter repair and condition criteria. Such containers are often in better technical and visual condition.
- One-Way Container: A like-new container that has usually completed only one loaded sea voyage from the manufacturer to the target market.
- As-is Container: Sold in its current condition without a guaranteed CW or WWT classification.
Cargo Worthy and the CSC plate are not the same thing
The term Cargo Worthy describes the verified technical condition. The CSC plate, on the other hand, is part of the container's international safety approval.
A technically suitable container may not automatically be used in international maritime transport. Before loading, the CSC inspection, the inspection date, and the requirements of the respective shipping line or carrier must also be checked.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a Cargo Worthy container be shipped immediately?
Not automatically. In addition to the technical CW condition, a valid CSC inspection and the requirements of the shipping lines, terminals, and transport service providers involved must be met.
Is a Cargo Worthy container watertight?
A CW container should protect the cargo from wind and precipitation. The specific condition of the roof, walls, doors, and seals should still be checked before use.
Is a CW container visually flawless?
No. Dents, traces of rust, color variations, sticker residue, and professional repairs are common with used CW containers. The decisive factor is technical suitability.
Is a Cargo Worthy certificate always included in the purchase price?
No. Whether a current inspection or certificate is included depends on the specific offer. Required documentation should therefore be explicitly agreed upon before purchase.
How long is a Cargo Worthy inspection valid?
Validity depends on the type of inspection, the documentation issued, and the applicable transport requirements. Before any shipment, you should verify that all certifications are still accepted.
Can a CW container be used for storage?
Yes. Cargo Worthy containers are generally well-suited for stationary storage. The actual condition, weather-tightness, and the requirements of the goods being stored are the deciding factors.