CSC Certificate

In brief

The CSC plate is an official inspection plate attached to a container, confirming its approval for international transport under the International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC). A container cannot be used for international sea freight without a valid CSC plate.

What is a CSC plate?

The CSC plate originates from the Container Safety Convention adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 1972. It confirms that a container is structurally sound and meets defined load and stacking requirements. The plate is permanently and clearly attached to the container door and includes, among other things: country of approval and approval number, date of manufacture, maximum gross weight, permissible stacking weight, and the racking test value. To maintain its certification, a container must be inspected regularly—either at fixed intervals or through an Approved Continuous Examination Program (ACEP).

Why is a CSC plate required?

  • Prerequisite for international sea transport of containers
  • Proof of structural safety for shipping lines, terminals, and authorities
  • Basis for insurance and liability issues in container transport
  • Relevant when purchasing used containers if the container is intended for future international transport

CSC plate vs. Cargoworthy/Wind and Water Tight

These terms often appear together, but they describe different things:

  • CSC plate: An official, legally required certification of structural safety—independent of the container's visual or functional condition.
  • Cargoworthy (CW) / Wind and Water Tight (WWT): These are not official certifications, but common industry classifications for the condition of a used container. "Cargoworthy" means the container is suitable for transporting cargo; "Wind and Water Tight" means it is sealed, but not necessarily approved for international freight transport.

A container can therefore have a valid CSC plate and still only be in WWT condition visually/functionally—or conversely, have an expired CSC plate even though it is in good structural condition. Anyone who buy used containers wants to transport it internationally later should specifically ask for a valid CSC plate, rather than just asking about its general condition.

Related terms

Frequently asked questions about the CSC plate

Does every container need a CSC plate?
Only containers intended for international maritime transport. A valid CSC plate is not required for purely stationary storage on land (e.g., as a storage container on your own property).

What happens if the CSC plate has expired?
The container may no longer be used for international transport until it has been re-inspected and the certification renewed. It remains suitable for storage on land, however.

Is the CSC plate the same as the manufacturer's data plate?
No. The data plate contains manufacturer information such as the serial number and technical specifications. The CSC plate is a separate, official safety certification and is usually attached independently.

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