EN 13044-3:2011
(Main)Intermodal Loading Units - Marking - Part 3: Markings of semi-trailers related to rail operation
General Information
- Abstract
This European Standard provides a system for the identification and presentation of information about the ILU. The identification system is intended for general application, for example in documentation, control and communication (including automatic data processing systems), as well as for display on the ILU and other non ISO containers (i.e. which dimensions and testing parameters differ from those defined by the applicable ISO standards) used in European transport.
The methods of displaying identification and specific other data (including operational data) on the ILU by means of permanent marks are included.
This European Standard specifies:
a) an ILU identification system with an associated system for verifying the accuracy of its use, having mandatory marks for the presentation of the identification system for visual interpretation, and
b) a coding system for data on ILU size, with corresponding marks for their display;
c) mandatory operational marks;
d) physical presentation of the marks on the ILU.
This part of the European Standard prescribes the system of operational data for the codification of the semi-trailer. The codification assigns a maximum profile for the cover area available at the rail tracks to the semi-trailer in order to enable the selection of those rail tracks on which these semi-trailers can be transported without any danger.
This part of the European Standard prescribes furthermore the additional operational markings, which are necessary for railway operation.
This European Standard does not cover temporary operational marks of any kind, permanent marks, data plates, etc. which may be required by intergovernmental agreements, national legislation or non-governmental organisations other than CEN.
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 11-Jan-2011
- Withdrawal Date
- 30-Jul-2011
- Technical Committee
- CEN/TC 119 - Swap bodies for combined goods transport
- Drafting Committee
- CEN/TC 119/WG 6 - Intermodal Loading Units
- Current Stage
- 9060 - Closure of 2 Year Review Enquiry - Review Enquiry
- Start Date
- 02-Sep-2026
- Completion Date
- 02-Sep-2026
Overview
EN 13044-3:2011 (CEN) specifies marking and operational identification for intermodal loading units (ILU) - specifically semi-trailers related to rail operation. The standard defines a system for permanent visual marks and codification used in documentation, control and automatic data systems to ensure safe, unambiguous transport of non‑ISO ILUs in European intermodal transport (road, rail, inland waterways and short sea). It complements EN 13044-1 and is compatible with EN ISO 6346 marking conventions where applicable.
Key topics and technical requirements
- ILU identification and verification: mandatory visual marks to present unit identity for documentation and automated systems.
- Operational codification for semi‑trailers: assignment of a profile code (according to UIC 596-6) that defines the maximum profile/clearance for rail carriage and enables safe selection of rail tracks. Two- or three‑digit profile numbers are used depending on semi‑trailer width (≤ 2 500 mm → two digits; > 2 500 mm and ≤ 2 600 mm → three digits).
- Mandatory operational marks: approval coding, profile code, saddle height (cm per UIC 596-5), body strength designation (EN 12642 standard or reinforced), pocket-wagon compatibility codes and scotch-block position.
- Physical presentation and placement: marking plates fixed on each side wall, preferably low and near the front end; owner may choose horizontal or vertical plate according to geometry.
- Mass and warning markings: optional MAX GROSS and TARE marks (kg) with minimum digit height of 50 mm; electrical hazard warning for trailers with ladders - black lightning symbol on yellow background, border, minimum 230 mm.
- Assignment and responsibility: operational codes must be allocated by a certified European Railway Undertaking (RU) or approved national authority; semi‑trailers must meet tests per UIC 596-5 before coding.
Applications and practical value
- Ensures consistent, machine- and human-readable identification of semi‑trailers in intermodal and combined transport.
- Enables rail operators and shippers to determine route compatibility and clearance envelopes quickly (profile code), improving safety and operational planning.
- Supports transport documentation, asset tracking, and automatic data processing in logistics and terminal systems.
- Used when preparing semi‑trailers for rail loading on pocket and recess wagons, verifying compatibility and saddle height requirements.
Who should use this standard
- Semi‑trailer and swap‑body manufacturers and designers
- Railway undertakings, terminal operators and intermodal service providers
- Fleet owners, logistics companies and freight forwarders involved in rail transport
- Certification bodies and national authorities allocating operational codes
Related standards (select)
- EN 13044-1 - ILU marking: identification
- UIC 596-5 / UIC 596-6 - technical rules for conveyance and coding of semi‑trailers
- EN 12642 - vehicle body strength
- EN ISO 6346 - container marking (compatible formatting guidance)
Keywords: EN 13044-3:2011, intermodal loading units, ILU marking, semi‑trailer rail operation, operational markings, profile code, UIC 596-6, EN 13044-1.
Relations
- Effective Date
- 08-Jun-2022
- Effective Date
- 28-Jan-2026
- Effective Date
- 28-Jan-2026
- Referred By
EN 16973:2017 - Road vehicles for combined transport - Semitrailer - Vertical transhipment - Effective Date
- 28-Jan-2026
- Effective Date
- 28-Jan-2026
- Effective Date
- 28-Jan-2026
- Effective Date
- 28-Jan-2026
- Effective Date
- 28-Jan-2026
- Effective Date
- 28-Jan-2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
EN 13044-3:2011 is a standard published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "Intermodal Loading Units - Marking - Part 3: Markings of semi-trailers related to rail operation". This standard covers: This European Standard provides a system for the identification and presentation of information about the ILU. The identification system is intended for general application, for example in documentation, control and communication (including automatic data processing systems), as well as for display on the ILU and other non ISO containers (i.e. which dimensions and testing parameters differ from those defined by the applicable ISO standards) used in European transport. The methods of displaying identification and specific other data (including operational data) on the ILU by means of permanent marks are included. This European Standard specifies: a) an ILU identification system with an associated system for verifying the accuracy of its use, having mandatory marks for the presentation of the identification system for visual interpretation, and b) a coding system for data on ILU size, with corresponding marks for their display; c) mandatory operational marks; d) physical presentation of the marks on the ILU. This part of the European Standard prescribes the system of operational data for the codification of the semi-trailer. The codification assigns a maximum profile for the cover area available at the rail tracks to the semi-trailer in order to enable the selection of those rail tracks on which these semi-trailers can be transported without any danger. This part of the European Standard prescribes furthermore the additional operational markings, which are necessary for railway operation. This European Standard does not cover temporary operational marks of any kind, permanent marks, data plates, etc. which may be required by intergovernmental agreements, national legislation or non-governmental organisations other than CEN.
This European Standard provides a system for the identification and presentation of information about the ILU. The identification system is intended for general application, for example in documentation, control and communication (including automatic data processing systems), as well as for display on the ILU and other non ISO containers (i.e. which dimensions and testing parameters differ from those defined by the applicable ISO standards) used in European transport. The methods of displaying identification and specific other data (including operational data) on the ILU by means of permanent marks are included. This European Standard specifies: a) an ILU identification system with an associated system for verifying the accuracy of its use, having mandatory marks for the presentation of the identification system for visual interpretation, and b) a coding system for data on ILU size, with corresponding marks for their display; c) mandatory operational marks; d) physical presentation of the marks on the ILU. This part of the European Standard prescribes the system of operational data for the codification of the semi-trailer. The codification assigns a maximum profile for the cover area available at the rail tracks to the semi-trailer in order to enable the selection of those rail tracks on which these semi-trailers can be transported without any danger. This part of the European Standard prescribes furthermore the additional operational markings, which are necessary for railway operation. This European Standard does not cover temporary operational marks of any kind, permanent marks, data plates, etc. which may be required by intergovernmental agreements, national legislation or non-governmental organisations other than CEN.
EN 13044-3:2011 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 35.240.60 - IT applications in transport; 55.180.10 - General purpose containers. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
EN 13044-3:2011 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to EN 13044:2000, EN 13044-1:2011, EN 12642:2016, EN 16973:2017, CEN/TS 13853:2003, CEN/TS 14993:2005, EN ISO 17262:2012, EN 284:2006, EN ISO 17263:2012. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
EN 13044-3:2011 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU, 2016/797/EU. When a standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union, products manufactured in conformity with it benefit from a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the corresponding EU directive or regulation.
EN 13044-3:2011 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.VWLKIntermodale Ladeeinheiten - Kennzeichnung - Teil 3: Kennzeichnungen von Sattelanhängern für den BahnbetriebUnités de chargement intermodales - Marquage - Partie 3: Marquages des semi-remorques pour l'exploitation sur railIntermodal Loading Units - Marking - Part 3: Markings of semi-trailers related to rail operation55.180.10General purpose containers35.240.60Uporabniške rešitve IT v transportu in trgoviniIT applications in transport and tradeICS:Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z:EN 13044-3:2011SIST EN 13044-3:2011en,fr,de01-november-2011SIST EN 13044-3:2011SLOVENSKI
STANDARDSIST EN 13044:20001DGRPHãþD
EUROPEAN STANDARD NORME EUROPÉENNE EUROPÄISCHE NORM
EN 13044-3
January 2011 ICS 35.240.60; 55.180.10 Supersedes EN 13044:2000English Version
Intermodal Loading Units - Marking - Part 3: Markings of semi-trailers related to rail operation
Unités de chargement intermodales - Marquage - Partie 3: Marquages des semi-remorques pour l'exploitation sur rail Intermodale Ladeeinheiten - Kennzeichnung - Teil 3: Kennzeichnungen von Sattelanhängern für den Bahnbetrieb This European Standard was approved by CEN on 30 November 2010.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
Management Centre:
Avenue Marnix 17,
B-1000 Brussels © 2011 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CEN national Members. Ref. No. EN 13044-3:2011: ESIST EN 13044-3:2011
Warning; Electricity . 10 SIST EN 13044-3:2011
The methods of displaying identification and specific other data (including operational da
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