Mil-Std 3037

INCH-POUND
MIL-STD-3037
27 January 2017
SUPERSEDING
MIL-HDBK-138B
1 January 2002
(See 6.3)
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
STANDARD PRACTICE
INSPECTION CRITERIA FOR INTERNATIONAL

ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION (ISO)
CONTAINERS AND DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
STANDARD FAMILY OF ISO SHELTERS
AMSC N/A FSC 8150 and FSC 5411
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

Check the source to verify that this is the current version before use.
MIL-STD-3037
FOREWORD
1. This standard is approved for use by all Departments and Agencies of the
Department of Defense (DOD).
2. This standard provides inspection criteria and procedures to be used when visually
examining ISO compliant intermodal containers. It is important to maintain basic safety
while handling and transporting large heavily laden ISO containers around the world. A
container inspection program, therefore, helps ensure that no injury to person or
damage to property occurs from a structural failure or deficiency. Following the criteria
and procedures contained herein will enable personnel to identify containers that are
serviceable and safe for loading and shipping.
3. This standard applies to the selection of any container meeting the ISO standards
and certified under the provisions of the International Convention for Safe Containers
(CSC). This standard applies to any ISO-configured container, shelter, or equipment
that requires a CSC certification/recertification and a CSC safety data plate and are in
FSC 5411, 8150, or in any other FSC. This standard is specifically used by worldwide
civilian and military personnel responsible for inspecting and selecting serviceable ISO
containers and shelters for shipment of DOD materiel.
4. This standard incorporates MIL-HDBK-138B entitled, GUIDE TO CONTAINER
INSPECTION FOR COMMERCIAL AND MILITARY INTERMODAL CONTAINERS,
which has been cancelled.
5. Certain portions of the criteria contained within this standard are segregated into
three parts. The basic part of the criteria applies to containers used only for shipment
of general cargoes. The second part provides additional criteria to be followed to
qualify containers for shipment of United Nations (UN) Hazard Class 1 explosive
materials. The third part provides additional criteria for Service-owned ISO-configured
shelters.
6. This standard provides a variety of helpful illustrations. While some illustrations
depict acceptable container repairs, it is not to be used as a standard for performing
such repairs.
7. Comments, suggestions, or questions on this document should be addressed to:
Defense Ammunition Center; 1 C Tree Road, ATTN: ATCL-ACE, McAlester OK 74501-
9002; or emailed to: usarmy.mcalester.usamc.mbx.dac-det@mail.mil. For this
standard, the above activity acts as Agent for the Preparing Activity U.S. Army ARDEC,
ATTN: RDAR-EIQ-SE, Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey 07806-5000,
usarmy.picatinny.ardec.list.ardec-stdzn-branch@mail.mil, and is responsible for its
technical content. Since contact information can change, you may want to verify the
currency of this address information using the ASSIST Online database at
https://assist.dla.mil.
ii

MIL-STD-3037
CONTENTS
PARAGRAPH PAGE
FORWARD ii
1. SCOPE 1
1.1 Purpose ...........................................................................................1
1.2 Applicability .......................................................................................1
1.3 Format .............................................................................................1
1.4 Objective .........................................................................................1
2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS 2
2.1 General .............................................................................................2
2.2 Government documents ................................................................2
2.2.1 Specifications ..................................................................................2
2.2.2 Other Government documents, drawings, and publications ............2
2.3 Non-Government publications ..........................................................3
2.4 Order of precedence .........................................................................4
3. DEFINITIONS 5
3.1 General .............................................................................................5
3.2 Typical ISO containers ......................................................................5
3.2.1 Typical end opening steel container .................................................5
3.2.2 Typical end opening aluminum container ........................................6
3.2.3 Typical end opening fiberglass reinforce plywood (FRP) container ..7
3.2.4 Typical side opening container ........................................................8
3.2.5 Typical end and side opening container ..........................................8
3.2.6 Typical open top container ..............................................................9
3.2.7 Typical flatrack container ............................................................11
3.2.8 Tactical ISO shelter .....................................................................12
3.2.8.1 Army tactical ISO shelter .................................................................13
3.2.8.2 Marine Corps tactical ISO shelter ....................................................14
3.2.8.3 Navy tactical ISO shelter..................................................................15
3.2.9 BICON/TRICON/QUADCON container .......................................17
3.3 Primary structural components ....................................................18
3.3.1 Corner fitting .................................................................................18
3.3.2 Corner post ....................................................................................18
3.3.3 Door header ...................................................................................18
3.3.4 Door sill ..........................................................................................18
3.3.5 Rear end frame ..............................................................................18
3.3.6 Top end rail ....................................................................................18
3.3.7 Bottom end rail ...............................................................................18
3.3.8 Front end frame ............................................................................18
3.3.9 Top side rail ....................................................................................18
3.3.10 Bottom side rail ...........................................................................18
iii

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
3.3.11 Cross member .............................................................................18

3.3.12 Understructure ...............................................................................18
3.3.13 Forklift pocket .................................................................................18
3.3.14 Forklift pocket strap ........................................................................19
3.3.15 Gooseneck tunnel ..........................................................................19
3.4 Walls, roof, and floor .....................................................................21
3.4.1 FRP ................................................................................................21
3.4.2 Wall panel ..................................................................................... 2 1
3.4.3 Wall post .....................................................................................21
3.4.4 Wall beam ...................................................................................21
3.4.5 Marking panel .............................................................................21
3.4.6 Lining ...............................................................................................21
3.4.7 Lining shield .....................................................................................21
3.4.8 Kick plate ....................................................................................21
3.4.9 Ventilator .....................................................................................21
3.4.10 Roof panel ...................................................................................21
3.4.11 Roof bow..........................................................................................21
3.4.12 Roof beam .......................................................................................21
3.4.13 Roof reinforcement plate..................................................................21
3.4.14 Tarp .................................................................................................21
3.4.15 Transport Internationale des Routiers (TIR) cable ...........................21
3.4.16 Flooring ............................................................................................22
3.4.17 Joint strip .........................................................................................22
3.4.18 Threshold plate ................................................................................22
3.4.19 Steps................................................................................................22
3.4.20 Sandwich panel ...............................................................................22
3.4.21 Striker plate......................................................................................22
3.4.22 Sling pad ..........................................................................................22
3.5 Door assembly .................................................................................29
3.5.1 Door panel .......................................................................................29
3.5.2 J-bar.................................................................................................29
3.5.3 Hinge ...............................................................................................29
3.5.4 Hinge pin..........................................................................................29
3.5.5 Locking bar ......................................................................................29
3.5.6 Locking bar mounting bracket ..........................................................29
3.5.7 Cam .................................................................................................29
3.5.8 Cam retainer ....................................................................................29
3.5.9 Door locking handle .........................................................................29
3.5.10 Door locking handle retainer ............................................................29
3.5.11 Anti-rack hardware ...........................................................................29
3.5.12 Customs catch .................................................................................29
3.5.13 Door seal (gasket) ...........................................................................30
3.5.14 Rain gutter .......................................................................................30
3.5.15 3-point latch .....................................................................................30
iv

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
3.5.16 Chain bolt.........................................................................................30

3.5.17 Foot bolt ...........................................................................................30
3.6 Special terminology .........................................................................36
3.6.1 Container .........................................................................................36
3.6.2 Intermodal ........................................................................................36
3.6.3 MILSPEC VAN.................................................................................36
3.6.4 Cargo restraint .................................................................................36
3.6.4.1 Door post vertical retainer ................................................................36
3.6.4.2 Dunnage ..........................................................................................36
3.6.4.3 Load bearing surface .......................................................................36
3.6.4.4 Mechanical restraint system for MILSPEC VAN ..............................36
3.6.4.5 Stanchion .........................................................................................36
3.6.4.6 Tiedown provision (lashing bar or ring) ............................................36
3.6.4.7 Universal load retainer .....................................................................36
3.6.4.8 Welded load retainer ........................................................................37
3.6.5 Tare weight ......................................................................................37
3.6.6 Payload ............................................................................................37
3.6.7 Maximum gross weight ....................................................................37
3.6.8 Shelter .............................................................................................37
3.6.9 Cam lock handle ..............................................................................37
3.6.10 Skids ................................................................................................37
3.6.11 International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code ..................37
3.6.12 Non IMDG ........................................................................................37
3.7 Conventions and markings ..............................................................42
3.7.1 ISO (International Organization for Standardization) .......................42
3.7.2 ISO markings ...................................................................................42
3.7.3 CSC (International Convention for Safe Containers) .......................42
3.7.4 CSC safety approval plate ...............................................................42
3.7.5 ACEP (Approved Continuous Examination Program) ......................42
3.7.6 TIR ...................................................................................................42
3.7.7 TIR markings or plate.......................................................................42
3.7.8 Manufacturer’s data plate ................................................................42
3.7.9 Consolidated data plate ...................................................................42
3.7.10 Placard holder..................................................................................43
3.8 Damage and repair ..........................................................................49
3.8.1 Patch................................................................................................49
3.8.2 Splice ...............................................................................................49
3.8.3 Gusset .............................................................................................49
3.8.4 Backup plate ....................................................................................49
3.8.5 Insert ................................................................................................49
3.8.6 Section (full profile) ..........................................................................49
3.8.7 Web .................................................................................................49
3.8.8 Flange ..............................................................................................49
3.8.9 Hole .................................................................................................49

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
3.8.10 Pinhole .............................................................................................49

3.8.11 Welder’s hammer .............................................................................49
3.8.12 Corrosive failure ...............................................................................49
3.8.13 Caulking ...........................................................................................49
3.8.14 Undercoating ...................................................................................50
3.8.15 Overlap (lapped) ..............................................................................50
3.8.16 Delamination ....................................................................................50
4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 55
4.1 General ............................................................................................55
4.1.1 Regulatory mandates .......................................................................55
4.1.2 Markings and data plates .................................................................55
4.1.3 Configuration ...................................................................................55
4.2 Primary structural components ........................................................57
4.2.1 Acceptable welding patterns ............................................................57
4.2.2 Acceptable splicing ..........................................................................57
4.2.3 Straightening....................................................................................57
4.2.4 Major defects ...................................................................................57
4.2.4.1 General cargo container (non IMDG) ...............................................57
4.2.4.2 UN Hazard Class 1 container (IMDG) ..............................................58
4.2.5 Corner fittings ..................................................................................58
4.2.6 Corner posts ....................................................................................59
4.2.6.3 Army or Marine Corps shelter ..........................................................59
4.2.6.4 Navy shelter .....................................................................................60
4.2.7 Door end frame ................................................................................61
4.2.7.4 Navy shelter .....................................................................................62
4.2.8 End frame (without door) .................................................................65
4.2.8.4 Navy shelter .....................................................................................65
4.2.9 Side rails ..........................................................................................69
4.2.9.4 Navy shelter .....................................................................................70
4.2.10 Floor cross members .......................................................................75
4.2.10.1 General cargo container (non IMDG) ....................................................75
4.2.10.2 UN Hazard Class 1 container (IMDG) ...................................................75
vi

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
4.2.10.3 Army or Marine Corps shelter ...............................................................75

4.2.10.4 Navy shelter ..........................................................................................75
4.2.11 Steel cross member juncture with steel side rail ..............................76
4.2.12 Acceptable splicing on steel cross members ...................................76
4.2.13 Cross member modifications ...........................................................76
4.2.14 Gussets and end rail stiffeners ........................................................76
4.2.15 Structural integrity of understructure ................................................76
4.2.16 Forklift pockets .................................................................................81
4.2.16.1 General cargo container (non IMDG) ....................................................81
4.2.16.2 UN Hazard Class 1 container (IMDG) ...................................................81
4.2.16.3 Army, Marine Corps or Navy shelter .....................................................81
4.2.17 Special container hardware .............................................................83
4.2.17.1 Collapsible flatrack end wall ..................................................................83
4.2.17.2 Open top swinging header .................................................................83
4.3 Non-structural components ..............................................................85
4.3.1 Serviceability of panels ....................................................................85
4.3.2 Acceptable patching ........................................................................85
4.3.3 Side and end wall panels .................................................................85
4. 3.3.1 General cargo container (non IMDG) ...............................................85
4. 3.3.2 UN Hazard Class 1 container (IMDG) ..............................................85
4.3.4 Closed roof assembly ......................................................................88
4.3.5 Removable cover (tarp) assembly ...................................................90
4.3.6 Serviceability of cover (tarp) assembly ............................................90
4.3.7 General type door assembly ............................................................92
4.3.8 Ramp type door ..............................................................................92
4.3.9 Cargo restraint .................................................................................98
4.3.9.1 Mechanical restraint system ............................................................98
4.3.9.2 Load bearing surface .......................................................................98
4.3.9.3 Load retainers ..................................................................................98
4.3.9.4 Tiedown provision (lashing bars or rings) ........................................98
4.3.9.5 Stanchion .........................................................................................98
4.3.10 Flooring .........................................................................................103
4.3.11 Acceptable wooden flooring repairs ................................................103
4.3.12 Acceptable wooden floor gaps for enclosed containers ..................103
4.3.13 Structural integrity of floor structure ................................................103
4.3.14 Miscellaneous components .........................................................106
4.3.14.1 Threshold plate ....................................................................................106
4.3.14.2 Lining and lining shield .........................................................................106
4.3.14.3 Ventilator ..............................................................................................106
4.3.14.4 Placard holder ......................................................................................106
4.3.14.5 Pop rivets .............................................................................................106
4.3.14.6 Door holder (tieback)............................................................................106
4.3.14.7 Installed equipment ..............................................................................106
4.3.14.8 Folding steps ........................................................................................106
vii

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
5. DETAILED REQUIREMENTS 108

5.1 Prerequisites ...................................................................................108
5.1.1 Container type ................................................................................108
5.1.2 Inspector qualifications ...................................................................108
5.1.3 Leased container ............................................................................108
5.1.4 Judgment of criteria ........................................................................108
5.2 Suggested tools and equipment .....................................................108
5.2.1 Long straight edge ..........................................................................108
5.2.2 Measuring tape (ruler).....................................................................108
5.2.3 Welder’s hammer ............................................................................108
5.2.4 Ladder.............................................................................................108
5.2.5 Inspection stands ............................................................................109
5.2.6 Flashlight ........................................................................................109
5.2.7 Chalk...............................................................................................109
5.2.8 Feeler gauge...................................................................................109
5.2.9 Depth gauge ...................................................................................109
5.2.10 Tap hammer ...................................................................................109
5.3 Recommended inspection sequence ..............................................112
5.3.1 Markings and data plates ................................................................112
5.3.2 Overall configuration .......................................................................112
5.3.3 Door end(s) or side(s) .....................................................................112
5.3.4 Exterior sides and ends ..................................................................112
5.3.5 Roof (exterior) .................................................................................112
5.3.6 Understructure ................................................................................112
5.3.7 Interior.............................................................................................112
5.3.8 Light leak test..................................................................................113
5.3.9 Pre-loading inspection vs. CSC reinspection ..................................114
5.4 Documents......................................................................................114
5.4.1 Inspection checklist .........................................................................114
5.4.2 DD Form 2282 decal .......................................................................114
5.4.2.1 Newly manufactured container .......................................................115
5.4.2.2 Subsequent to repair.......................................................................115
5.4.2.3 Serviceable for general cargo .........................................................115
5.4.2.4 Serviceable for UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG)....................................115
5.4.3 UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) declaration ..........................................115
5.4.4 Inspection report .............................................................................115
6. NOTES 117
6.1 Intended use ...................................................................................117
6.2 Associated data item descriptions (DIDs) .......................................117
6.3 Supersession ................................................................................117
6.4 Subject term (key word) listing .....................................................117
viii

MIL-STD-3037
FIGURE PAGE
1 Typical end opening steel container .....................................................5

2 Typical end opening aluminum container ...............................................6
3 Typical end opening FRP container ......................................................7
4 Typical side opening container .............................................................8
5 Typical 1/2 high open top container .......................................................9
6 Typical 2/3 high open top container .....................................................10
7 Typical flatrack container.......................................................................11
8 Army tactical ISO shelter .....................................................................13
9 Marine Corps tactical ISO shelter ........................................................14
10 Navy BMF ISO shelter .........................................................................16
11 Navy SOMF-B (modified) ISO shelter ..................................................16
12 Typical TRICON container ...................................................................17
13 Container understructure .....................................................................19
14 Primary structural components ............................................................20
15 Typical steel container (exploded view) ................................................23
16 Typical aluminum container (exploded view).........................................24
17 Fiberglass reinforced plywood (FRP) ....................................................25
18 Removable cover (tarp) assembly .......................................................25
19 Typical ISO shelter (exploded view) ....................................................26
20 Typical one-side expandable ISO shelter (exploded view) ....................27
21 Honeycomb sandwich panel ................................................................28
22 Foam and beam sandwich panel construction ......................................28
23 Typical rear end door assembly ...........................................................31
24 Door hardware .....................................................................................32
25 Typical shelter door assembly ...............................................................33
26 Army/Marine 3-point latching system ....................................................34
27 Navy 3-point latching system ...............................................................35
28 Mechanical restraint system for MILVAN ..............................................38
29 Cargo restraint system for end opening container.................................39
30 Cargo restraint system for side opening container ................................40
31 Restraint provisions for flatrack container .............................................40
32 Load bearing surfaces in general cargo MILVAN ..................................41
33 Cargo restraints for shelter ..................................................................41
34 Typical door markings ..........................................................................44
35 Typical horizontal layout of ISO identification markings ........................45
36 Typical vertical layout of ISO identification markings ...........................46
37 Typical format of CSC safety approval plate ........................................47
38 Typical consolidated data plate ...........................................................48
39 Typical welded patches on steel wall panels .........................................51
40 Typical splices in rails ...........................................................................52
41 Typical reinforced door sill ...................................................................53
42 Welder’s hammer ..................................................................................53
43 Typical riveted patches on wall (aluminum, steel, or
sandwich panel) ...................................................................................54
ix

MIL-STD-3037
FIGURE PAGE
44 ISO dimensions and tolerances ............................................................56

45 Corner fitting ........................................................................................58
46 Corner post ...........................................................................................60
47 Rear end frame ....................................................................................63
48 Splice limitations for door header and door sill ......................................64
49 Front end frame ...................................................................................67
50 Splice limitations for end rails ................................................................68
51 Steel side rail .......................................................................................71
52 Aluminum side rail ...............................................................................71
53 Splice limitations for side rails ..............................................................72
54 Examples of steel top side rail splices .................................................73
55 Examples of steel bottom side rail splices ...........................................74
56 Steel cross member repair limitations ..................................................77
57 Dent and bend limitations for cross members ......................................78
58 Unacceptable steel cross member damage requiring
rail replacement.....................................................................................79
59 Typical cross member configuration (ISO shelters) .............................79
60 Gussets and end rail stiffeners on steel containers .............................80
61 Examples of forklift pocket damage .....................................................82
62 Examples of flatrack end wall damage ................................................83
63 Swinging header damage ....................................................................84
64 Acceptable wall patches (steel panel) .................................................86
65 Acceptable wall, roof, and floor patches (sandwich
or aluminum panel) ..............................................................................87
66 Roof assembly damage .......................................................................88
67 Repaired roof assembly .......................................................................89
68 Removable cover (tarp) assembly .......................................................91
69 Rear end door assembly damage ........................................................93
70 Patched door panel .............................................................................94
71 TIR requirements for brackets .............................................................95
72 Customs catch on a steel door ............................................................95
73 Typical ISO shelter door assembly damage ........................................96
74 Ramp type door damage .....................................................................97
75 Mechanical restraint system damage ..................................................99
76 Load retainer damage ........................................................................100
77 Damaged flatrack restraint provisions ................................................101
78 Load bearing surfaces on a van .........................................................102
79 Wooden plank flooring damage ..........................................................104
80 Sandwich panel flooring damage ........................................................104
81 Example of flooring repair ....................................................................105
82 Container inspection stands ...............................................................110
83 Combination depth/feeler gauge .........................................................110
84 Checking for protrusions .....................................................................111
85 Tap hammer .......................................................................................111

MIL-STD-3037
FIGURE PAGE
86 Straightening flange ............................................................................113

87 DD Form 2282 decal ..........................................................................116
TABLE
I Army tactical ISO shelters .....................................................................13

II Marine Corps tactical ISO shelters ........................................................14
III Navy tactical ISO shelters .....................................................................15
IV BICON/TRICON/QUADCON containers ...............................................17
APPENDIX A INSPECTION CHECKLISTS 119
A.1 SCOPE 119

A.1.1 Scope..............................................................................................119
A.2 DEFINITIONS 119
A.2.1 Major defect ....................................................................................119
A.2.2 Minor defect ....................................................................................119
A.3 CHECKLISTS 119
A.3.1 Inspection checklists .......................................................................119
TABLE
A-I End opening container inspection checklist .................................120

A-II Flatrack container inspection checklist ........................................122
A-III Mobile facility inspection checklist .................................................124
A-IV Open-top container inspection checklist ........................................127
A-V Side opening container inspection checklist ................................129
A-VI Tactical shelter inspection checklist ..............................................131
INDEX ........................................................................................................134
CONCLUDING MATERIAL ..................................................................................140
xi

MIL-STD-3037
1. SCOPE
1.1 Purpose. This standard provides inspection criteria and procedures to be used
when visually examining intermodal freight containers. Following the criteria and
procedures contained herein will enable personnel to identify containers that are
serviceable and safe for loading and shipping.
NOTE!
This standard is not to be used for performing container repairs.
1.2 Applicability. This standard applies to any International Organization for

Standardization (ISO) container or ISO-configured tactical shelter or equipment requiring
inspection, certification, and periodic examination under the provisions of the International
Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) detailed in 49 CFR 450-453. This standard applies
to any ISO-configured container, shelter, or equipment that require a CSC certification/ re-
certification and a CSC safety data plate and are in FSC 5411, 8150, or in any other FSC.
This standard is specifically used worldwide by Department of Defense (DOD) civilian,
contractor, and military personnel responsible for inspecting ISO-containers or ISO-
configured tactical shelters or equipment being offered for shipment internationally in the
Defense Transportation System (DTS).
1.3 Format. Certain portions of the criteria contained within this standard are
segregated into two or more parts. The first part of the criteria applies to containers used for
shipment of general cargoes. The remaining parts provide additional criteria to be followed
to qualify containers for shipment of United Nations (UN) Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) explosive
materials in accordance with IMDG requirements, and with Army, Marine Corps, or Navy
shelters.
1.4 Objective. Inspecting personnel will use this standard to cause:
a. Inspection standardization among DOD agencies for selection of intermodal

containers owned by the DOD.
b. Preparation of inspection reports that are properly annotated to reflect container

condition and reason(s) for rejection; and
c. Compliance with international treaties and conventions and United States

transportation law.

MIL-STD-3037
2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS
2.1 General. The documents listed in this section are specified in sections 3, 4, or 5 of
this standard. This section does not include documents cited in other sections of this
standard or recommended for additional information or as examples. While every effort
has been made to ensure the completeness of this list, document users are cautioned that
they must meet all specified requirements of documents cited in sections 3, 4, or 5 of this
standard, whether or not they are listed.
2.2 Government documents.
2.2.1 Specifications. The following documents form a part of this standard to the extent
specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the editions are those in effect at the time of
inspection.
COMMERCIAL ITEM DESCRIPTIONS
A-A-52029 Container, Cargo, Side-Opening
A-A-52032 Container, Cargo, End-Opening
A-A-52033 Container, Cargo, Open-Top, Half Height
A-A-59272 Container, Cargo, End and Side Opening
DOD SPECIFICATIONS
MIL-PRF-32349 Container, Cargo, Triple Container (TRICON) (WITHOUT

CABINETS, DRAWERS, OR SHELVES)
MIL-PRF-32402 Container, Cargo, Triple Container 5 (TRICON 5)
MIL-PRF-32410 Container, Cargo, Double Container (BICON) Type 2
(Copies of these documents are available online at https://assist.dla.mil or from DLA

Document Services, Bldg 4/D, 700 Robbins Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094.)
2.2.2 Other Government documents, drawings, and publications. The following

documents form a part of this standard to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise
specified, the editions are those in effect at the time of inspection.
DEFENSE AMMUNITION CENTER
AC200000210 MILVAN Repair and Inspection Stand
DA-116 Aft end load restraint in end-opening ISO containers using

universal load retainers, door post vertical retainers, or
welded load retainers
(Copies of these documents are available online at

www3.dac.army.mil/det/order/draworder.html, searching by project number (DA-116) or

MIL-STD-3037
drawing number (AC200000210) or from the Defense Ammunition Center, 1 C Tree

Road/ATCL-ACE, Bldg. 35, McAlester, OK 74501.)
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
DTR 4500.9-R Part VI Management and Control of Intermodal Containers and

System 463L Equipment
(Copies of this document are available online at www.transcom.mil.)
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOT)
49 CFR Code of Federal Regulations - Transportation
(Copies of these documents are available online at www.gpoaccess.gov or from the U.S.
Government Printing Office, Mail Stop: IDCC, 732 N. Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC
20401.)
2.3 Non-Government publications. The following documents form a part of this

standard to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the editions are those in
effect at the time of inspection.
INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION (IMO)
CSC International Convention for Safe Containers
IMDG Code International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
TIR Customs Convention - Transport Internationale des

Routiers
(Copies of these documents are available online at www.imo.org or from the

International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR, United
Kingdom.)
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION (ISO)
ISO 668 Series 1 Freight Containers - Classification, Dimensions

and Ratings
ISO 1161 Series 1 Freight Containers - Corner Fittings Specification
ISO 1496 Series 1 Freight Containers - Specification and Testing
ISO 6346 Freight Containers - Coding, Identification and Marking
(Copies of these documents are available online at www.iso.org/iso/home.html, or from

the American National Standards Institute, 25 W. 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036.)
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS (ASME)
ASME B30.1 Jacks, Industrial Rollers, Air Casters, and Hydraulic

Gantries – Safety Standard for Cableways, Cranes,

MIL-STD-3037
Derricks, Hoists, Hooks, Jacks, and Slings
(Copies of this document are available online at www.ansi.org or from the American
National Standards Institute, 25 W 43rd Street, 4th Floor New York, NY, 10036)
AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS (ASTM)
ASTM E1925 Specification for Engineering and Design Criteria for Rigid
Wall Relocatable Structures.
(Copies of this document are available online at www2.astm.org or from ASTM

International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959)
2.4 Order of precedence. Unless otherwise noted herein, in the event of a conflict
between the text of this document and the references cited herein, the text of this document
takes precedence. Nothing in this document, however, supersedes applicable laws and
regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.

MIL-STD-3037
3. DEFINITIONS
3.1 General. The terms used throughout this standard are consistent with the following
definitions.
3.2 Typical ISO containers.
3.2.1 Typical end opening steel container. Refer to Figure 1. The most common type
of freight container is the general purpose dry cargo type. This container completely
encloses its contents by permanent steel structures and provides cargo loading access
through end opening doors.
Typical end opening steel containers can be 10, 20, 40, or 45 feet long by 8, 8-1/2, or 9
1/2 feet high. The standard width of an ISO container is 8 feet. The walls of a typical steel
container are usually constructed of corrugated sheet steel panels that are welded to the
main structural steel top and bottom side rails and end frames. The end frames are fitted
with standard corner fittings (steel castings) at all eight corners that are welded to the four
corner posts, top and bottom side and front rails, and rear door sill and header. The roof is
usually constructed of either flat or corrugated sheet steel panels welded to the top side and
end rails and door header and may have roof bows for support. The doors are usually
either shaped steel frame with steel panels or plymetal (steel faced wood) panels fitted with
locking and anti-rack hardware and weather-proof seals (gaskets). The flooring may be
soft or hard laminated woods, planking, plywood, or composition material either screwed or
bolted to the floor cross members. The floor cross members may be box, C, Z, or I shaped
steel beams bolted or welded to the bottom side rails. Some containers are configured
with all-steel flooring or a combination of wood and steel.
An ISO freight container is primarily handled via connection with its internationally
standard corner fittings; however, many steel containers are also provided with empty
and/or loaded capacity forklift pockets to improve container handling versatility.
Performance specifications for a typical 20 foot long end opening steel container are
provided by commercial item description A-A-52032.
FIGURE 1. Typical end opening steel container

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.2 Typical end opening aluminum container. Refer to Figure 2. A typical end
opening aluminum container, often referred to as aluminum/steel container, usually has
steel end frames and structural steel or extruded aluminum side rails.
The end frames are fitted with standard corner fittings (steel castings) at all eight
corners. The walls are constructed of either interior or exterior intermediate aluminum
posts to which sheet aluminum is riveted or welded. The inside walls usually have a
plywood liner either riveted to the intermediate posts or over the sheet aluminum. The door
panels are either aluminum post and sheet construction or plymetal (metal faced wood)
construction and are fitted with steel locking and anti-racking hardware and weather-proof
seals (gaskets). Roof bows, that support the aluminum roof panels, are usually aluminum
extrusions that are bolted, riveted, or welded to the top rails. The flooring may be soft or
hard laminated woods, planking, or plywood either screwed or bolted to the floor cross
members. The floor cross members may be box, C, Z, or I shaped beams of either steel or
aluminum that are bolted, riveted, or welded to the bottom side rails.
The nominal dimensions and many construction details are otherwise similar to those of
steel end opening containers.
FIGURE 2. Typical end opening aluminum container

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.3. Typical end opening Fiberglass Reinforced Plywood (FRP) container. Refer to
Figure 3. A typical end opening FRP container is usually constructed of structural steel
framing; fitted with standard corner fittings (steel castings) at all eight corners; and has FRP
panels on the side walls, front end wall, and roof.
Normally there are no roof bows used to support the roof panel. The FRP panels are
usually imbedded in a mastic, to provide water tightness, and are riveted to the top and
bottom rails and the corner posts. The door panels are also constructed of FRP and are
fitted with steel locking and anti-rack hardware and weather-proof seals (gaskets). The
flooring may be soft or hard laminated woods, planking, or plywood either screwed or bolted
to the cross members. The floor cross members may be box, C, Z, or I shaped beams.
The nominal dimensions and many construction details are otherwise similar to those of
steel end opening containers.
FIGURE 3. Typical end opening FRP container

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.4 Typical Side Opening Container. Refer to Figure 4. A side opening container is
similar in many respects to a typical steel end opening container except there are doors on
the side to provide access to the cargo space and the bottom side rails usually have a
deeper profile. There may or may not be doors in the end frame of the container.
Typical side opening steel containers can be 20 or 40 feet long by 8½ or 9½ feet high.
The standard width of an ISO container is 8 feet. Performance specifications for a typical
20 foot long side opening container are provided by commercial item description A-A-
52029.
FIGURE 4. Typical side opening container
3.2.5 Typical End and Side Opening Container. An end and side opening container
is an amalgam of a steel end opening container and a side opening container, and is
available in three variations, doors opening on one end of the container, doors opening
on both ends of the container, and doors opening on both ends of the container as well
as a set of 8 ft by 8 ft doors on one side of the container. Typical end and side opening
steel containers are 20 feet long by 8 feet high. The standard width of an ISO
container is 8 feet.
Performance specifications for a typical end and side opening container are provided
by commercial item description A-A-59272.

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.6 Typical open top container. Refer to Figures 5 and 6. An open top container is
similar in all respects to a typical steel container except it has no rigid roof. Instead, it has a
flexible or removable cover.
The removable cover (tarp) is usually made of canvas or reinforced vinyl material and is
supported on movable or removable roof bows. The tarp has reinforced eyelets in the
perimeter that fit (nest) over corresponding loops welded to the side panel, end panels, and
door(s). The tarp is secured by a plastic sheathed wire rope threaded through the welded
steel loops. An open top container may also have a movable or removable door header to
facilitate access to the cargo. In some open top containers, the end door opens downward
to function as a loading ramp. Some open top containers have all steel floors.
Three typical heights for open top containers are 4 ft – 3 in high (1/2 high), 5 ft – 8 in
high (2/3 high), and 8 ft – 6 in high (full height). Typical open top containers can be 20 or
40 feet long. The standard width of an ISO container is 8 feet. Performance
specifications for a typical half-high open top container are provided by commercial item
description A-A-52033.
FIGURE 5. Typical 1/2 high open top container

MIL-STD-3037
Tarp
Top rail
Top rail
Side Side
Wire Welded
rope loop
FIGURE 6. Typical 2/3 high open top container
10

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.7 Typical flatrack container. Refer to Figure 7. The nominal dimensions and many
construction details of a flatrack container are similar to those of a typical steel container
except it does not have rigid side walls or a roof structure.
A flatrack container is configured with eight internationally standard corner fittings, a

substantial platform (understructure), and two end wall assemblies that may either be of
fixed construction or folding design. Flatracks used to ship ammunition have paneled end
walls. Components of the flatrack container such as the bottom rails of the platform and
the corner posts of the end wall assemblies are of a heavier construction than the
corresponding components of a closed type container. Stake pockets (stanchions) and
cargo tiedown provisions are usually provided along the side rails to facilitate blocking and
bracing of cargo. The flooring is usually either soft or hard wood planking that is specially
treated and either screwed or bolted to the cross members. The planking may be
intentionally configured with gaps between boards to allow drainage.
A flatrack container does not provide weather protection. Typical flatrack containers
can be 20 or 40 feet long by 8, 8½, or 9½ feet high. The standard width of an ISO
container is 8 feet.
FIGURE 7. Typical flatrack container
11

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.8 Tactical ISO shelter. Tactical ISO shelters are lightweight, shipping containers
transportable via land, sea and air. Most shelters are integrated with electrical service and
installed equipment. Upon arrival at their destination, these shelters can be unpacked and
serve as modular, live-in/work-in facilities, which can be joined together (complexed) with
other shelters. The applications range from deployable kitchens to command and control
centers. Like freight containers, all tactical ISO shelters are equipped with ISO 1161
corner fittings, structural frame, end and/or side doors, forklift pockets, wall, floor and roof
panels.
The shelters are 8 ft W x 8 ft H and either 10 ft or 20 ft L, in accordance with ISO 668,

with gross weights of up to 20,000 pounds. The shelter walls, floor and roof are
constructed of a “sandwich panel” consisting of a thin aluminum inner and outer skin,
separated by either a “foam-beam” or “honeycomb” core construction. All tactical ISO
shelters are in the Federal Supply Class (FSC) 5411, and are designed in accordance with
the applicable American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ISO standards and ASTM
E1925.
There are three different basic structural design groups (families) of tactical ISO
Shelters: Army, Marine Corps, and Navy. Within each of these groups, there are several
standard configurations. Although there are several different National Stock Number
(NSN) items within this shelter family, the basic structural design of the shelters, within a
given group is the same. There are a total of 18 NSN items for the standard tactical ISO
shelter configuration. This section provides descriptive information intended to help identify
the types of tactical ISO shelters.
The United States Air Force employs both Army and Navy approved tactical shelters to
support their steady-state and deployment shelter requirements. Therefore, Air Force
activities use the inspection criteria in this standard for the shelters in their possession, in
accordance with the Service guidelines prescribed by the Army or Navy, respectively.
12

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.8.1 Army tactical ISO shelter. Refer to Figure 8. The Army tactical ISO shelters
are constructed of an aluminum structural frame, with eight flanged corner fittings (steel
castings) bolted to the frame at each corner.
Although there are six different configurations of Army tactical ISO shelters, the basic
structural design is the same. The shelters can either be non-expandable, 1-side
expandable, or 2-side expandable. The walls, floor and roof are sandwiched panels
constructed of aluminum with paper-honeycomb core, which are bolted to the structural
frame. The floor cross members and forklift pockets are aluminum, welded to the structural
aluminum base frame. There is a 3 ft wide personnel door on one end and a set of double
3 ft cargo doors on the opposite end. The doors are constructed of the same aluminum-
honeycomb sandwich panel as the walls, floor, and roof, and use a 3 point latch, located on
the door interior. There is anti-rack hardware located at both end doors.
The shelters are 8 ft high by 8 ft wide by 20 ft long structures, with a gross weight of up
to 15,000 pounds. Table I lists the configurations of Army tactical ISO shelters.
TABLE I. Army tactical ISO shelters
SHELTER CONFIGURATION NSNs

Non-expandable S-781/G (60 amp service) 5411-01-136-9837
S-782/G (100 amp service) 5411-01-294-6390
One-side expandable S-783/G (60 amp service) 5411-01-124-1377
S-784G (100 amp service) 5411-01-295-3433
Two-side expandable S-785/G (60 amp service) 5411-01-136-9838
S-786/G (100 amp service) 5411-01-294-9866
FIGURE 8. Army tactical ISO shelter
13

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.8.2 Marine Corps tactical ISO shelter. Refer to Figure 9. The Marine Corps
tactical ISO shelters are constructed with an aluminum structural frame, with eight flanged
corner fittings (steel castings) bolted to the frame at each corner.
Although there are five different NSN items within this shelter family, the basic structural
design of these shelters is the same. The walls, floor and roof are sandwiched panels
constructed of aluminum with paper-honeycomb core, which are riveted to the structural
frame. There are non-expandable 10 ft and 20 ft shelters and a 20 ft knock-down type.
The floor cross members and forklift pockets are formed sheet aluminum, welded to the
structural aluminum base frame. There is a 3-1/2 ft wide personnel door on each end.
The doors are constructed of the same aluminum-honeycomb sandwich panel as the walls,
floor, and roof, and use a 3 point latch, located on the door interior. All shelters, except the
electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielded shelters have removable side and end walls.
Four knock-down shelters in the storage mode can be stacked and shipped in the transport
mode. The shelters are 8 ft high by 8 ft wide by 10 ft and 20 ft long structures, with gross
weight of up to 15,000 pounds. Table II lists the configurations of Marine Corps tactical ISO
shelters.
TABLE II. Marine Corps tactical ISO shelters
SHELTER CONFIGURATION NSNs

10 ft Non-Expandable General Purpose 5411-01-287-4341
EMI Shielded 5411-01-206-6079
20 ft Non-Expandable General Purpose 5411-01-209-3451
EMI Shielded 5411-01-206-6078
20 ft Knock-down General Purpose 5411-01-206-6077
FIGURE 9. Marine Corps tactical ISO shelter
14

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.8.3 Navy tactical ISO shelter. Refer to Figures 10 and 11. The Navy ISO shelters
are constructed with a steel structural frame, with eight corner fittings (steel castings)
welded to the frame at each corner.
Although there are seven different NSN items within this shelter family, the basic
structural design of these shelters is the same, and are all non-expandable 20 ft. The
walls, floor and roof are sandwiched panels constructed of aluminum with structural foam
core, which are riveted to the structural frame. Within these panels there are tubular
aluminum frame members, spaced every 22 inch on center. The floor cross members and
forklift pockets are formed sheet steel, welded to the structural steel base frame. The
Basic Mobile Facility (BMF), Integrated Unit Mobile Facility (INU), Side Opening Mobile
Facility (SOMF-A) shelters are equipped with a 4 ft wide door on each end. The SOMF-C
is equipped with a 4 ft door on only one end. The SOMF-B is equipped with a 3-1/2 ft
door on the side and the modified SOMF-B has an additional set of 80 in high double doors
on one end. The doors are constructed of the same foam and beam sandwich panel as
the walls, floor, and roof, and use a 3-point latch, located on the door interior. All shelters
in the standard configuration, (except the SOMF-C) can have up to three power entry
(waterfall) panels, located on the sidewall.
The SOMF-A and B shelters have one fixed sidewall and one removable sidewall. The
fixed sidewall has two 4 ft removable panels. The SOMF-C has two removable sidewalls.
The BMF shelters have two fixed sidewalls. One of the sidewalls has one 4 ft global
removable panel. The INU shelters also have two fixed sidewalls. One of the sidewalls
has two 4 ft removable panels and the other side has only one. All shelters have three
removable, full-length skids, 2.56 in high, mounted to the base frame.
The shelters are 8 ft high by 8 ft wide by 20 ft long structures, with a gross weight of up
to 20,000 pounds. Table III lists the different types of Navy tactical ISO shelters.
TABLE III. Navy tactical ISO shelters
SHELTER TYPE NSNs

Basic Mobile Facility (BMF) BMF-A 5411-01-355-4322
BMF-B 5411-01-355-4323
Side Opening Mobile Facility (SOMF) SOMF-A 5411-01-355-4320
SOMF-B 5411-01-355-4321
SOMF-B, Modified 5411-01-355-4319
SOMF-C 5411-01-355-6566
Integration Unit Mobile Facility (INU) INU 5411-01-355-4318
15

MIL-STD-3037
Striker plate (x4)
Sling pad
Power entry
panels
Removable
panel
4 ft wide
end door
FIGURE 10. Navy BMF ISO shelter
Removable panels
3 ½ ft wide side door
80 in Removable
double side wall
end doors
FIGURE 11. Navy SOMF-B (modified) ISO shelter
16

MIL-STD-3037
3.2.9 BICON/TRICON/QUADCON container. Refer to Figure 12. The BICON/

TRICON/QUADCON containers are similar to a typical steel container except for overall
dimensions. This container completely encloses its contents by permanent steel structures
and provides cargo loading access through end or side opening doors. The containers
may be assembled in various combinations to form 20 foot equivalent ISO containers.
Table IV lists characteristics of each type of container. Performance specifications for a
BICON, TRICON, and TRICON V containers are provided by government item descriptions
MIL-PRF-32410, MIL-PRF-32349, and MIL-PRF-32402, respectively.
TABLE IV. BICON/TRICON/QUADCON containers
Container Length Width Height Gross Weight Double Doors

FT IN FT IN FT IN LBS (Orientation)
BICON 9 9-3/4 8 0 8 0 22,865 Two (width)
TRICON Type 1 6 5-1/2 8 0 8 0 12,300 One (length)
TRICON Type 2 6 5-1/2 8 0 8 0 12,100 Two (length)
TRICON 5 6 5-1/2 8 0 8 0 12,100 Two (width)
QUADCON 1 4 9-3/8 8 0 6 10 9,436 Two (length)
QUADCON 2 4 9-3/8 8 0 8 0 10,754 Two (length)
. FIGURE 12. Typical TRICON container
17

MIL-STD-3037
3.3 Primary structural components. On some ISO shelters, some of the primary
structural components may be concealed within the wall, roof, and floor panels. The areas
where the adjacent panels join are to be thoroughly inspected, and are to meet the criteria
for the wall beams and roof beams. The following sub-paragraphs define the primary
structural components of ISO containers and ISO shelters. Refer to Figure 14 unless
otherwise specified.
3.3.1 Corner fitting. Internationally standard fitting (casting) located at the eight corners
of the container structure to provide means of handling, stacking and securing containers.
Specifications are defined in ISO 1161. Refer to Figure 20.
3.3.2 Corner post. Vertical structural member located at the four corners of the
container and to which the corner fittings are joined. Refer to Figures 20 and 29.
3.3.3 Door header. Lateral structural member situated over the door opening and joined
to the corner fittings in the door end frame.
3.3.4 Door sill. Lateral structural member at the bottom of the door opening and joined
to the corner fittings in the door end frame. Refer to Figure 41.
3.3.5 Rear end frame. The structural assembly at the rear (door end) of the container
consisting of the door sill and header joined at the rear corner fittings to the rear corner
posts to form the door opening. Refer to Figures 15, 16 and 19.
3.3.6 Top end rail. Lateral structural member situated at the top edge of the front end
(opposite the door end) of the container and joined to the corner fittings.
3.3.7 Bottom end rail. Lateral structural member situated at the bottom edge of the
front end (opposite the door end) of the container and joined to the corner fittings.
3.3.8 Front end frame. The structural assembly at the front end (opposite the door end)
of the container consisting of top and bottom end rails joined at the front corner fittings to
the front corner posts. Refer to Figures 15, 16 and 19.
3.3.9 Top side rail. Longitudinal structural member situated at the top edge of each
side of the container and joined to the corner fittings of the end frames. Refer to Figures 15,
19 and 40.
3.3.10 Bottom side rail. Longitudinal structural member situated at the bottom edge of
each side of the container and joined to the corner fittings to form a part of the
understructure. Refer to Figures 19, 39 and 40.
3.3.11 Cross member. Lateral structural member attached to the bottom side rails that
supports the flooring. Refer to Figures 15, 16, 19 and 40.
3.3.12 Understructure. An assembly consisting of bottom side and end rails, door sill
(when applicable), cross members and forklift pockets. Refer to Figure 20.
3.3.13 Forklift pocket. Reinforced tunnel (installed in pairs) situated transversely across
the understructure and providing openings in the bottom side rails at ISO prescribed
positions to enable either empty capacity or empty and loaded capacity container handling
by forklift equipment. Refer to Figures 15, 16 and 19.
18

MIL-STD-3037
3.3.14 Forklift pocket strap. The plate welded to the bottom of each forklift pocket
opening or part of bottom side rail. The forklift pocket strap is a component of the forklift
pocket.
3.3.15 Gooseneck tunnel. Recessed area in the forward portion of the understructure
to accommodate transport by a gooseneck chassis. This feature is more common in 40
foot and longer containers. Refer to Figure 13.
Gooseneck tunnel
(3.3.15)
FIGURE 13. Container understructure
19

MIL-STD-3037
Top end rail

(3.3.6)
Top side rail
(3.3.9)
Corner fitting
(3.3.1)
ROADSIDE
Corner post
Door header (3.3.2)
(3.3.3)
Bottom end rail

(3.3.7)
Bottom side rail

(3.3.10)
Forklift pocket strap

(3.3.14)
Door sill Forklift pocket
(3.3.4) (3.3.13)
Corner post
(3.3.2) Cross member CURBSIDE
(3.3.11)
FIGURE 14. Primary structural components
20

MIL-STD-3037
3.4 Walls, roof, and floor. Refer to Figures 15 through 22.
3.4.1 Fiberglass reinforced plywood (FRP). A material constructed of laminates of

fiberglass, polyester resins, and plywood, also known as sandwich panel.
3.4.2 Wall panel. Refer to Figures 29, 39 and 40. Corrugated or flat sheet steel, a
riveted or bonded aluminum sheet and wall post assembly, FRP, foam and beam,
aluminum, or honeycomb material that forms the side wall or end wall.
3.4.3 Wall post. Interior or exterior intermediate vertical component to which sheet
aluminum or steel is riveted or welded to form a wall panel.
3.4.4 Wall beam. Encapsulated vertical component to which sheet aluminum or steel is
bonded to form a wall panel. This is found in foam and beam panels.
3.4.5 Marking panel. A side wall panel of a corrugated steel configured with a flat
portion used for the display of markings and placards.
3.4.6 Lining. Plywood or other like material attached to the interior side and end wall to
protect the walls and/or cargo and facilitate loading operations.
3.4.7 Lining shield. A strip of thin metal installed at the bottom of the interior walls to
protect the lower portion of the lining from damage by materials handling equipment during
loading or unloading operations.
3.4.8 Kick plate. A common name for a lining shield installed on the lower portion of the
interior front end wall.
3.4.9 Ventilator. Two or more devices permanently attached to the side or end wall
panel that provides openings for the exchange of air (but not water) between the outside
and the container interior.
3.4.10 Roof panel. Corrugated or flat sheet steel, sheet aluminum, FRP, or foam and
beam and aluminum honeycomb panel that forms the top closure of the container.
3.4.11 Roof bow. Lateral non-structural member attached to the top side rails and
supporting the underside of the roof panel. Roof bows used with removable cover (tarp)
assembly are unattached. Not all container designs require roof bows.
3.4.12 Roof beam. Encapsulated horizontal component to which sheet aluminum or

steel is bonded to form a roof panel.
3.4.13 Roof reinforcement plate. An additional metal plate on the interior or exterior of
the roof panel adjacent to the top corner fittings that provides protection of the roof panel or
top rail components from misaligned handling equipment.
3.4.14 Tarp. Jargon for “tarpaulin”, a waterproof and flexible fabric used for covering
the top of an open top container, also referred to as a “tilt” in some countries.
3.4.15 Transport Internationale des Routiers (TIR) cable. Plastic sheathed wire rope
that is designed in accordance with TIR customs convention (see 3.7.6) and is threaded
through the welded loops on the sides, end panels and door panels of an open top
21

MIL-STD-3037
container to secure the tarp.
3.4.16 Flooring. Refer to Figures 33 and 41. Material that is supported by the cross
members and bottom rails to form a load bearing surface for the cargo. The flooring is
usually constructed of laminated wood planks, plywood sheets, or other composition
material and is screwed or bolted to the cross members. Some containers have welded
steel or aluminum flooring, sandwich panels or a combination of metal and wood.
3.4.17 Joint strip. A formed steel or aluminum strip (usually hat-shaped section)
installed between joints of the plywood sheet flooring or joints of the plywood sheet lining to
help integrate and support the edges of the plywood.
3.4.18 Threshold plate. Plate forward of the door sill to protect the entrance area of
the container floor. This plate is commonly referred to as a crash plate.
3.4.19 Steps. Folding steps are found on some ISO shelters and are used to gain
access to the roof. They are folded up prior to transporting shelter.
3.4.20 Sandwich panel. A type of fixed or removable panel construction used in ISO
shelters consisting of a thin inner and outer sheet aluminum skin, bonded or fastened to a
core constructed of either honeycomb or structural foam and aluminum beams.
3.4.21 Striker plate. An additional metal plate on the exterior of the roof panel adjacent
to the top corner fittings that provides protection to the roof panel or top rail components
from misaligned handling equipment.
3.4.22 Sling pad. An additional metal plate on the exterior of the roof panel located in
the center of the roof panel that provides protection to the panel from lowered handling
equipment.
22

MIL-STD-3037
Roofpanel
Roof Panel
Front end frame
(3.3.10)
(3.4.10) (3.3.8)
Top side rail End wall panel

(3.3.9) (3.4.2)
Ventilator
(3.4.9)
ROADSIDE
Joint strip
(3.4.17)
Flooring
(3.4.16)
Rear end
frame
(3.3.5)
Side wall panel

(3.4.2)
Forklift
pocket CURBSIDE
(3.3.13)
Bottom
Marking panel
side rail
(3.4.5)
Door (3.3.10)
assembly Threshold plate
Cross member
(3.5) (3.4.18)
(3.3.11)
FIGURE 15. Typical steel container (exploded view)
23

MIL-STD-3037
Roof reinforcement
plate (3.4.13)
Roof panel
(3.4.10)
Roof bow
(3.4.11) Front end frame
(3.3.8)
ROADSIDE Lining
(3.4.6)
Kick plate
(3.4.8)
Lining
(3.4.6)
Side wall
(3.4.2)
Lining shield
(3.4.7)
Rear end
frame
(3.3.5)
Wall post
(3.4.3)
Flooring
(3.4.16) Side wall panel
Forklift pocket (3.4.2)
(3.3.13)
Threshold Cross
plate member CURBSIDE
(3.4.18) (3.3.11)
Door assembly
(3.5)
FIGURE 16. Typical aluminum container (exploded view)
24

MIL-STD-3037
Interior face
Fiberglass with
polyester resin
Exterior face Plywood
FIGURE 17. Fiberglass reinforced plywood (FRP)
Tarp (3.4.14)
Removable
roof bow TIR cable
(3.4.11) (3.4.15)
FIGURE 18. Removable cover (tarp) assembly
25

MIL-STD-3037
Roof panel
(3.4.10 & 3.4.20)
Sling pad Striker plate

(3.4.22) (3.4.21)
Front end
frame
ROADSIDE (3.3.8)
Front end wall

panel
Roof beam (3.4.2 &
(3.4.12) 3.4.20)
Top side rail
(3.3.9)
Rear end
frame
(3.3.5)
Side wall panel

Cross (3.4.2 & 3.4.20)
Forklift
member pocket
(3.3.11) (3.3.13) Wall beam (foam and
Floor panel beam panel only
(3.4.16) Bottom side rail (3.4.4 & 3.4.20)
Door (3.3.10)
assembly
CURBSIDE
(3.5) Rear end wall panel
(3.4.2 & 3.4.20)
FIGURE 19. Typical ISO shelter (exploded view)
26

MIL-STD-3037
Striker plate Double door

(3.4.21) end panel
(3.4.2 & 3.4.20)
Hinged roof panel
Fixed roof panel (3.4.10 & 3.4.20)
(3.4.2 & 3.4.20)
Hinged end
wall panel
(3.4.2 & 3.4.20)
Fixed side wall panel
(3.4.2 & 3.4.20)
Single door
end panel
(3.4.2 & 3.4.20)
Corner
fitting
(3.3.1)
Corner
post
(3.3.2)
Steps Base frame
(3.4.19) (understructure) Hinged side wall panel
(3.3.12) (3.4.2 & 3.4.20)
Hinged floor panel

(3.4.16 & 3.4.20)
Cam lock
handle
Hinged end wall panel
(3.6.9)
(3.4.2 & 3.4.20)
FIGURE 20. Typical one-side expandable ISO shelter (exploded view)
NOTE: Hinged panels are those which will be enclosed inside the container during transport
and storage.
27

MIL-STD-3037
Exterior skin
Edge frame
Interior skin
Honeycomb
core
FIGURE 21. Honeycomb sandwich panel
Exterior skin
Encapsulated
wall beam
Interior skin
Foam core
Edge frame
FIGURE 22. Foam and beam sandwich panel construction
28

MIL-STD-3037
3.5 Door assembly. Refer to Figures 15, 16, 19, and 23 through 27.
3.5.1 Door panel. Refer to Figure 29. Corrugated or flat sheet steel, plymetal (metal
faced wood) material, aluminum sheet and post assembly, sandwich panel, or FRP panel
that forms either a portion or all of a door.
3.5.2 J-bar. Refer to Figure 29. The portion of the exterior edge of the corner post
structure in a doorway frame that encircles and supports the door hinges.
3.5.3 Hinge. Refer to Figure 29. Hardware comprised of a blade permanently joined
to the door and a lug integral to the corner post structure. A series of hinges enables the
door to rotate open or closed.
3.5.4 Hinge pin. Hinge component that attaches the two components of the hinge and
provides a line of rotation. A hinge pin may be surrounded with a bushing to reduce friction
and resist corrosion. A weld may be affixed to the hinge pin to prevent pilferage by
removing the hinge pin and door without breaking the custom seal. This is a TIR
requirement.
3.5.5 Locking bar. Vertical rod of the door assembly with cam locks fitted at each end.
When rotated, it engages the cam retainers on the doorway frame. On some open top
containers’ ramp type doors, this rod may be placed horizontally.
3.5.6 Locking bar mounting bracket. One of the brackets that hold the locking bars in
place on the door assembly.
3.5.7 Cam. Fitting on each end of a locking bar that has offset protrusions. Through
lever type action, it engages a cam retainer to secure the door to the doorway frame.
3.5.8 Cam retainer. Female component (retainer) located on the sill and header of the
rear end frame or top and bottom side rails of a side opening container. It engages and
retains the cam of a locking bar.
3.5.9 Door locking handle. Handle attached to the door locking bar that rotates the bar
(rod) when opening or closing (locking) the container door.
3.5.10 Door locking handle retainer. Fixed or pivoting hardware to hold the locking
handle in the closed position and provide a means to place a lock and/or security seal on
the door(s).
3.5.11 Anti-rack hardware. Hardware attached to the doors and doorway frame to
provide resistance against transverse twisting (racking) of the container. It consists of
locking bars, locking bar mounting brackets, cams, cam retainers, locking handles, handle
retainers and other support brackets.
3.5.12 Customs catch. Rod or plate permanently affixed near center edge of outer door
to preclude inner door opening without opening the outer door. Customs catch is only
required if door design does not provide a metal overlap as defined by the TIR convention.
3.5.13 Door seal (gasket). Refer to Figure 29. Flexible plastic, rubber or synthetic
rubber attached to the door edges with a retaining strip and fasteners to provide a water
proof seal between doors and between the doors and the door frame.
29

MIL-STD-3037
3.5.14 Rain gutter. The structure attached to the door header on some containers to
divert water away from the doorway frame.
3.5.15 3-point latch. A latch system used on ISO shelter doors that secures the door to
the doorway frame using three roller cams.
3.5.16 Chain bolt. A spring-loaded bolt used to lock upper portion of one of the double
doors on an ISO Shelter.
3.5.17 Foot bolt. A spring-loaded bolt used to lock lower portion of one of the double
doors on an ISO Shelter.
30

MIL-STD-3037
Door seal Rain gutter Cam Cam retainer

(3.5.13) (3.5.14) (3.5.7) (3.5.8)
Customs catch
(3.5.12)
Hinge pin
(3.5.4) J-bar
(3.5.2)
Hinge
(3.5.3)
Door panel
(3.5.1)
Locking bar
(3.5.5)
Locking bar
Door panel mounting
(3.5.1) bracket
(3.5.6)
Door seal
Door locking (3.5.13)
Anti-rack Door locking
hardware handle handle retainer
(3.5.11) (3.5.9) (3.5.10)
FIGURE 23. Typical rear end door assembly
31

MIL-STD-3037
Cam retainer
(3.5.8)
Cam
(3.5.7)
Locking bar
mounting bracket
(3.5.6)
Locking bar
(3.5.5)
Locking bar
mounting bracket
(3.5.6)
Door locking
handle retainer
(3.5.10)
Handle hub
(3.5.9)
Bushing
Door
locking
Rivet handle
(3.5.9)
Cam retainer
(3.5.8)
Cam
(3.5.7) Door locking
handle retainer
(3.5.10)
FIGURE 24. Door hardware
32

MIL-STD-3037
Door locking Door interior

handle retainer Roller cam
Door exterior
(3.5.10) (3.5.7)
Locking bar
(3.5.5)
3-point latch (3.5.15)

(See next page for
Door locking detail)
handle
(3.5.9) Anti-rack
hardware
Hinge (3.5.11)
(3.5.3)
Anti-rack
hardware Hinge pin
(3.5.11) (3.5.4)
Door panel
(3.5.1)
Anti-rack
hardware
(3.5.11)
Rain gutter
Door seal (3.5.14)
(3.5.13)
FIGURE 25. Typical shelter door assembly
33

MIL-STD-3037
Chain bolt
(3.5.16)
Cam
(3.5.7)
Jar proof
safety incline
Door locking
handle
View A-A
(3.5.9)
Locking bar
(3.5.5)
Interior view
Foot bolt
(3.5.17)
FIGURE 26. Army/Marine 3-point latching system
34

MIL-STD-3037
3-point
latch
(3.5.15)
FIGURE 27. Navy 3-point latching system
35

MIL-STD-3037
3.6 Special terminology. Refer to Figures 28 through 33.
3.6.1 Container. An article of transport equipment that meets ANSI/ISO standards that
is designed to be transported by various modes of transportation. These containers are
also designed to facilitate and optimize the carriage of goods by one or more modes of
transportation without intermediate handling of the contents and equipped with features
permitting ready handling and transfer from one mode to another. For the purpose of this
standard, the term container is assumed to be an ISO type container, shelter, MILSPEC
VAN, flatrack, BICON, TRICON, QUADCON, or other structures which comply with CSC
requirements.
3.6.2 Intermodal. Type of international freight system that permits transshipping among
sea, highway, rail, and air modes of transportation through use of ANSI/ISO containers,
line-haul assets, and handling equipment.
3.6.3 MILSPEC VAN. A military-owned demountable cargo container also referred to

as a MILVAN. A MILSPEC VAN is an ISO standard 1496 series 1 intermodal freight
container with nominal dimensions of 8 feet wide by 20 feet long. A MILSPEC VAN can be
either a Type I (8 feet high with plywood liner), Type II (8 feet high with mechanical restraint
system), Type III (8-1/2 feet high with plywood liner), or Type IV (8-1/2 feet high with
mechanical restraint system).
3.6.4 Cargo restraint. Restraint fixtures or material that facilitate cargo securement
within the container during handling and transport.
3.6.4.1 Door post vertical retainer. Restraint pieces constructed from structural steel
tubing and plates IAW DAC drawing DA-116. Installed two per end opening container to
interface with container corner posts to transfer the dynamic cargo load from the container
doors onto the corner posts.
3.6.4.2 Dunnage. Additional restraint materials installed around cargo to prevent

shifting and/or damage of the cargo items during shipment. Dunnage may also refer to
material installed under container during storage.
3.6.4.3 Load bearing surface. A smooth rigid interior surface on the primary structure of
the container capable of withstanding dynamic loads imposed by accelerated weight of
cargo during container handling and transport.
3.6.4.4 Mechanical restraint system for MILSPEC VAN. A type of cargo restraint which
consists of eight slotted horizontal rails intermittently spaced and welded on each side wall
of the container, a pair of slotted vertical rails welded to the door end corner posts and 25
independent shoring beam assemblies with end fittings that interlock into the slots of the
rails.
3.6.4.5 Stanchion. A rectangular provision (tube) on flatrack side rails that acts as a
stake pocket for a side blocking stake or dunnage assembly.
3.6.4.6 Tiedown provision (lashing bar or ring). Provision or fitting for attachment of
straps or other cargo restraint devices.
3.6.4.7 Universal load retainer. Restraint pieces constructed from structural steel
36

MIL-STD-3037
sheets IAW DAC drawing DA-116. Installed in pairs (2, 4 or 6) in end opening containers
to interface with container corner posts to transfer the dynamic cargo load from the
container doors onto the corner posts.
3.6.4.8 Welded load retainer. A device or fixture welded to the door corner post that
provides a strong load bearing surface for cargo restraint dunnage. Many of the DOD-
owned end opening containers are equipped with a pair of these.
3.6.5 Tare weight. Refer to Figure 33. Weight of the empty container or shelter as
manufactured.
3.6.6 Payload. Refer to Figure 34. Maximum allowable weight of the contents (cargo)
of a container including any additional required load blocking materials (dunnage), not
normally assigned or attached to a container.
3.6.7 Maximum gross weight. Refer to Figure 34. Total permitted gross loaded weight
of a container including the tare weight plus the maximum allowable payload.
3.6.8 Shelter. An ISO container which provides live-in or work-in capability. A shelter
is inspected with the same criteria as a general cargo container.
3.6.9 Cam lock handle. Refer to Figure 20. Handles located on the corner posts of
expandable ISO shelters. They are used to secure folding panels while shelter is in
transport mode. Two handles per corner post. A one side expandable ISO shelter will
have them on two corner posts. A two side expandable ISO shelter has them on all four
corner posts.
3.6.10 Skids. Navy ISO Shelters have three removable, full length skids, 2.56 in
(65mm) high, mounted to the base frame. These are used to keep the bottom of the
shelter off the ground allowing air to circulate to prevent moisture damage. They can be
removed when transporting shelter.
3.6.11 IMDG. The IMO’s IMDG Code contains specific inspection criteria for structural
serviceability of containers carrying UN Hazard Class 1 (ammunition and explosives)
materials (IMDG Para 7.1.2). In this standard, use of the term “IMDG” indicates that
information or criteria which applies to containers for carrying ammunition and explosives.
3.6.12 Non IMDG. In this standard, use of the term “non-IMDG” indicates that
information or criteria which applies to shelters and to containers that will carry hazardous
materials other than UN Hazard Class 1 and all non-hazardous materials. The IMDG Code
provides NO inspection criteria for these containers, thus the term “non-IMDG”.
37

MIL-STD-3037
Slotted horizontal rail Shoring beam assembly

(8 per side wall) (25 per container)
(3.6.4.4) (3.6.4.4)
Slotted vertical rail (1 on

each side of doorway)
(3.6.4.4)
FIGURE 28. Mechanical restraint system for MILVAN
38

MIL-STD-3037
J-bar
(3.5.2) Corner post
assembly (3.3.2)
View B
The corner fitting has been
Door gasket omitted for clarity purposes.
(3.5.13)
Door hinge
(3.5.3)
Universal load retainer (3
per side) (3.6.4.7)
Door (3.5.1)
Load bearing
View B
surface (3.6.4.3)
Interior of front end
wall (3.4.2)
Interior of side
wall (3.4.2)
Tiedown provision
(lashing bar)
(3.6.4.6)
Universal
load retainer
(3.6.4.7)
Door corner post Front corner post interior

FIGURE 29. Cargo restraint system for end opening container
39

MIL-STD-3037
Load bearing surface

(3.6.4.3)
Tiedown provision
(lashing ring)
(3.6.4.6)
FIGURE 30. Cargo restraint system for side opening container
Stanchion
(3.6.4.5)
Tiedown provision
(lashing bar) (3.6.4.6)
FIGURE 31. Restraint provision for flatrack container
40

MIL-STD-3037

(3.6.4.3)
FIGURE 32. Load bearing surfaces in general cargo MILVAN
Tiedown provision
(3.6.4.6)
Floor
(3.4.16)
FIGURE 33. Cargo restraints for shelter
41

MIL-STD-3037
3.7 Conventions and markings. Refer to Figures 34 through 38.
3.7.1 ISO. An international organization composed of various national organizations

that prescribes standards. The organization is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland and
includes technical committees (TCs) such as ISO TC 104 for technical work involving
intermodal freight containers.
3.7.2 ISO markings. Numbers, letters and symbols placed on a container in

conformance to ISO 6346 to identify such items as the ISO number [consisting of a three
letter owner code, a single letter equipment category identifier, a six numeral serial number,
and a single numeral check digit], container size, type, gross weight, tare weight, Net
(Payload) and cubic capacity. Mandatory ISO markings are Identification Marks - ISO
Number and the size type code and Operational Marks - Max Gross and TARE. Optional
Marks are NET (Payload) and CUBE CAPACITY. See DTR 4500.9, Part VI Section 603
for DOD ownership codes.
3.7.3 CSC. An international treaty requiring structural safety approval on all ISO
containers moving in international transport. In addition, periodic inspections at specified
intervals are required to ensure continued safe condition. United States compliance with
CSC is mandated by 49 CFR Parts 450 to 453 and Public Law 95-208.
3.7.4 CSC safety approval plate. A durable data plate required by CSC to indicate CSC
certification by a nationally approved testing agency. The required format of the CSC Plate
is depicted in Figure 37. The information on the plate is inscribed in at least the English or
French language.
3.7.5 ACEP (Approved Continuous Examination Program). The alternative program to

periodic examinations of containers. An ACEP marking/decal on the container indicates
the date that this method of examination was initially approved by the US Coast Guard, and
not the date of the next required re-inspection. The elements of an ACEP are identified in
49 CFR parts 452.7 and 452.9. If a container is under an ACEP program, the ACEP
marking/decal is placed as close as practicable to the safety approval plate. One possible
location to find an ACEP marking/decal is the area delineated in Figure 37 by the number
10.
3.7.6 TIR. An international customs convention providing transport approval under

regulation of customs authorities of different nations. TIR approval usually permits sealed
containers to cross international borders without inspection.
3.7.7 TIR markings or plate. Markings or data plate identifying that container design
has been certified to meet TIR requirements.
3.7.8 Manufacturer’s data plate. A plate affixed to the container identifying

manufacturer, date of manufacture, and other pertinent container design data.
3.7.9 Consolidated data plate. A single plate affixed to the container that consolidates
all container data and approval information, without violating individual data format
requirements.
42

MIL-STD-3037
3.7.10 Placard holder. Fixture used to display placards that identify hazardous material
classification of cargo being shipped.
43

MIL-STD-3037
Country code Owner code Equipment Registered serial number

(3.7.2) (3.7.2) category identifier and check digit (3.7.2)
Size and type

code (3.7.2)
Maximum
gross weight
rating (3.7.2
and 3.6.7)
Empty (tare)
weight of
container
(3.7.2 and
3.6.5)
Payload
(3.7.2 and
3.6.6)
Cubic
capacity
(3.7.2)
Placard
Consolidated data
holder
plate (3.7.9)
(3.7.10)
FIGURE 34. Typical door markings
44

MIL-STD-3037
FIGURE 35. Typical horizontal layout of ISO identification markings
45

MIL-STD-3037
FIGURE 36. Typical vertical layout of ISO identification markings
46

MIL-STD-3037
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
(Typical shown)
REQUIRED LINES OF INFORMATION:
1. Alphanumeric reference code similar to example shown above indicating country of approval and
reference number for approval.
2. Date (month and year) of manufacture.
3. Manufacturer’s identification number or the ISO identification number (i.e., owner code, serial
number and check digit) assigned to the container.
4. Maximum operating gross mass (kilograms and pounds).
5. Allowable stacking load (kilograms and pounds) container can support when subjected to 1.8
times the force of gravity.
6. Transverse racking test force (newtons).
7. End wall strength expressed in kilograms and pounds or as fraction of the permissible payload
(P). This is only required to be marked on the CSC plate if end walls are designed to withstand a load of
less than or greater than 0.4P.
8. Side wall strength expressed in kilograms and pounds or as fraction of the permissible payload
(P). This is only required to be marked on the CSC plate if side walls are designed to withstand a load of
less than or greater than 0.6P.
9. Alternate location on CSC plate for application of DD Form 2282 decal.
FIGURE 37. Typical format of CSC safety approval plate
47

MIL-STD-3037
FIGURE 38. Typical consolidated data plate
48

MIL-STD-3037
3.8 Damage and repair. Refer to Figures 39 through 43.
3.8.1 Patch. Any repair of a wall, roof, or door panel that adds or replaces material
without complete replacement of the panel. An acceptable patch is of permanent design,
of similar material and configuration, and weatherproof. Patch is a generic repair term,
which for the purposes of this inspection criteria, is reserved exclusively for repairs on non-
structural components such as wall, roof, or door panels. A patch may be either an insert
or overlapping type of repair.
3.8.2 Splice. Any repair of a primary (main) structural component (member) that
replaces material without complete replacement of the member. Gussets, backup plates or
other reinforcement (protector) plates are not to be construed as splices. Splice is a
regulatory repair term, which for the purposes of this inspection criteria, is reserved
exclusively for repairs on components of the primary structure where allowed. A splice
may be either an insert or section type of repair for steel components and overlap only for
aluminum.
3.8.3 Gusset. Reinforcement plate attached to or between adjacent components to

reinforce the structure and provide added resistance to handling damage.
3.8.4 Backup plate. A reinforcement (doubler) plate may be installed on the backside of
a structural component and is usually located behind a splice. It is not installed on the
exterior of any component’s profile. The backup plate serves to stiffen and strengthen the
component.
3.8.5 Insert. A specific type of repair in which replacement material is fitted flush with
the original component and only a partial profile of the component’s cross section is
replaced.
3.8.6 Section (full profile). A specific type of repair in which replacement material is
fitted flush with the original component and the entire profile of the component’s cross
section is replaced.
3.8.7 Web. The vertical portion between the upper and lower flanges of a cross
member or rail.
3.8.8 Flange. The wide portion at the top or bottom of a cross member or rail. A
flange usually projects at a right angle to the web.
3.8.9 Hole. A penetrating puncture through any part of the container.
3.8.10 Pinhole. A pinhole typically results from a tiny skip or porosity in a weld and
usually is only detected during a light leak test.
3.8.11 Welder’s hammer. A hammer with a chisel shaped head used to tap on a
welded joint and/or surface of a steel structural component to ascertain the strength and
integrity.
3.8.12 Corrosive failure. Corrosion is unacceptable if primary or non-primary structural

members can be punctured by striking the area lightly with a welder’s hammer.
3.8.13 Caulking. A sealant compound used to provide water tightness around patches
49

MIL-STD-3037
in panels, around riveted seams, in holes of pop rivets, in joints between dissimilar metals,
in gaps between floor board edges, and in gaps where the floor boards adjoin the interior
container walls.
3.8.14 Undercoating. Bituminous material or other waterproof coating brushed or

sprayed on the entire underside of the container, to protect all the metal understructure
against corrosion and to waterproof the wooden flooring.
3.8.15 Overlap (lapped). A specific type of repair in which replacement material is

extended over a portion of the undamaged area of the original component and changes the
profile of the component’s cross section.
3.8.16 Delamination. A failure in which the panel separates into constituent layers, as
evidenced by bulging and waviness of the surface. This type of failure applies to sandwich
panels, FRP, plywood, and plymetal.
50

MIL-STD-3037
Pinhole
(3.8.10) Flush fitting
Exterior seam insert patch
fully welded (3.8.1 and 3.8.5)
Sidewall panel
Overlapping (3.4.2)
patch (3.8.1
and 3.8.15)
EXTERIOR VIEW
Bottom side
Flange rail
(3.8.8)
Hole
(3.8.9)
Exterior seam
fully welded
INTERIOR VIEW
Overlapping
patch (3.8.1
and 3.8.15)
Interior seam fully

Web
welded or skip
(3 8 7)
welded and sealed
FIGURE 39. Typical welded patches on steel wall panels
51

MIL-STD-3037
Top side rail (3.3.9) Insert splice

(3.8.2 and 3.8.5)
Overlap splice
Section splice
(3.8.2 and 3.8.15)
(3.8.2 and 3.8.6)
Butt welded
seams
TYPICAL SPLICES IN ALUMINUM

Wall panel (3.4.2)
RAILS (NOT APPLICABLE TO
ISO TACTICAL SHELTERS)
TYPICAL SPLICES IN TOP STEEL RAILS
Wall panel (3.4.2)

Wall panel (3.4.2)
Bottom side rail
(3.3.10)
Insert splice Bottom side rail

(3.8.2 and (3.3.10)
3.8.5)
Insert splice (3.8.2
and 3.8.5)
Cross member TYPICAL SPLICES IN BOTTOM STEEL RAILS
(3.3.11)
FIGURE 40. Typical splices in rails
52

MIL-STD-3037
Flooring (3.4.16)
Gusset (3.8.3)
Backup plate (3.8.4)
Door sill (3.3.4)
FIGURE 41. Typical reinforced door sill
Wire brush
Chipping head
Handle
Note: Welder’s hammer is defined in

paragraph 3.8.11 and identified by National
Stock
Number 5120 00 240 3096
FIGURE 42. Welder’s hammer
53

MIL-STD-3037
2 in (51mm)
2 in (51mm)
Overlapping patch
1 in (25mm)
1/2 in (13mm)
1 in (25mm)
1/2 in (13mm) Caulking/sealant
(3.8.13)
Note: Fasteners shall

meet TIR requirements.
Rivets or other special
fasteners should be of a
Caulking sealant around closed or blind mandril
perimeter of patch design. If hollow core
(3.8.13) pop rivets are used,
holes shall be caulked
to prevent water
seepage.
Overlapping patch Use of hollow core pop

rivets to repair steel
containers is allowed
only on MILSPEC VAN
doors.
FIGURE 43. Typical riveted patches on wall (aluminum, steel, or sandwich panel)
54

MIL-STD-3037
4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
4.1 General.
4.1.1 Regulatory mandates. An intermodal container may not be offered for the
carriage of any type of cargo unless the container is structurally serviceable as evidenced
by a CSC Safety Approval Plate and verified by a detailed visual examination. The CSC
Safety Approval Plate and the visual examination shall conform to the mandates of 49 CFR,
parts 451 and 452. Furthermore, before a container is loaded with UN Hazard Class 1
(IMDG) (explosive) materials, it shall meet specific structural serviceability requirements as
prescribed by the IMDG Code and mandated by 49 CFR part 176.172. If a container has
any safety related deficiency or damage that could place any person in danger, it will not be
used.
4.1.2 Markings and data plates. A container shall bear legible ISO markings
conforming to ISO Standard 6346. A container shall also bear a legible CSC Safety
Approval Plate or a Consolidated Data Plate marked in accordance with CSC format
requirements. Mandatory ISO operational markings (i.e., maximum gross weight and tare
weight) shall appear on at least one location such as on the door, as depicted in Figure 34.
Mandatory ISO identification markings (i.e., owner code, serial number and check digit)
shall be located on all four sides, and top as depicted in Figures 35 and 36. The CSC
Safety Approval Plate may be securely affixed at a readily visible place on the container,
where it is not easily damaged. All maximum gross weight markings on the container shall
be consistent with the maximum gross weight on the CSC Safety Approval Plate.
4.1.3 Configuration. Any distortion of the overall configuration great enough to preclude
proper engagement of handling/lifting equipment, mounting and securing on chassis,
vehicle, or aircraft pallet, or insertion into the cell of a ship is unacceptable. No part of the
container may protrude beyond the outside surfaces of the corner fittings. The external
dimensions shall be within the tolerances prescribed by ISO Standard 668 as depicted in
Figure 44.
55

MIL-STD-3037
SPECIAL NOTE FOR

FLATRACKS ONLY: In
accordance with ISO
Standard 1496 part 5, an
D2 additional tolerance of +/-3/8
in (+/-10mm) is allowed for
D1 the top external length L of
D3 flatrack containers. For
example, the maximum
D5 D4 permitted overall top
H D6 dimension of a nominal 20
foot flatrack is 19 ft - 10-7/8 in
S (6067mm) when empty and
L*
the minimum permitted
P overall top dimension is 19 ft
W
- 9-7/8 in (6042mm) when
loaded to rated capacity.
External Dimensions and Tolerances in Millimeters and Feet and Inches

Nominal L (External Length) * S K1 MAX.
Length
FT MM +/- FT IN +/- MM +/- FT IN +/- MM IN
+0 +0 +6 +1/4 -
40 12192 40 0 11986 39 3-7/8 19 3/4
-10 -3/8 -6 1/4
+0 11- +0 +6 +1/4 -
30 9125 29 8919 29 3-1/8 16 5/8
-10 1/4 -3/8 -6 1/4
+0 10- +0 +5 +3/16
20 6058 19 5853 19 2-7/16 13 1/2
-6 1/2 -1/4 -5 -3/16
+0 +0 +4 +5/32
10 2991 9 9-3/4 2787 9 1-23/32 10 3/8
-5 -3/16 -4 -5/32
W (External Width) P K2 MAX.
MM +/- FT IN +/- MM +/- FT IN +/- MM IN
All +0 +0 +4 +5/32
2438 8 0 2260 7 4-31/32 10 3/8
Lengths -5 -3/16 -4 -5/32
Nominal H (Overall Height) S = LENGTH BETWEEN CENTERS
Height OF CORNER FITTING
FT MM +/- FT IN +/-
APERTURES
+0 +0
9-1/2 2896
-5
9 6
-3/16 P = WIDTH BETWEEN CENTERS OF
+0 +0 CORNER FITTING APERTURES
8-1/2 2591 8 6
-5 -3/16 D = DISTANCE BETWEEN CENTERS
8 2438
+0
8 0
+0 OF APERTURES OF
-5 -3/16 DIAGONALLY OPPOSITE
+0 +0 CORNER FITTINGS
5-2/3 1727 5 8
-5 -3/16
+0 +0
K1 = DIFFERENCE BETWEEN D1
4-1/4 1295 4 3 AND D2 OR D3 AND D4
-5 -3/16
K2 = DIFFERENCE BETWEEN D5
AND D6
FIGURE 44. ISO dimensions and tolerances
56

MIL-STD-3037
4.2 Primary structural components. An intermodal container with any major defect in
any component of its primary structure is unacceptable. For purposes of these criteria,
primary (main) structural components (members) include: corner fittings, corner posts,
door sill and header, top and bottom end rails, top and bottom side rails, floor cross
members, and forklift pockets. On some ISO shelters, some of the primary structural
components may be concealed within the wall, roof, and floor panels. The areas where the
adjacent panels joins shall be thoroughly inspected, and shall meet the criteria of for the
wall beams and roof beams.
4.2.1 Acceptable welding patterns. Containers are originally deemed suitable for use if
they have been given CSC certification by such agencies as Marine Container Equipment
Certification Corp., American Bureau of Shipping, Germanischer Lloyd, Bureau Veritas,
Registro Italiano Navale, Nippon Kaiji Kyokai, Lloyds Register of Industrial Services, Det
Norske Veritas, Polish Register of Shipping, et al. These international agencies are highly
reputable and bear the liability that the container is manufactured in accordance with ISO
and CSC requirements. Welding patterns conforming to the original manufacturer’s design
are, therefore, acceptable. Only abnormal welding patterns due to damage and/or
improper repair are cause for rejection. Typically, a juncture between structural members
at a corner fitting is welded continuously on the exterior surface of the container. Rails and
headers formed from tubular steel are typically welded all around the juncture (exterior and
interior). Since welding patterns may vary depending on design and manufacture,
inspection should be directed at looking for broken junctures or welded repairs that are not
consistent with other corresponding welds of that container.
4.2.2 Acceptable splicing. For purposes of these criteria, a splice is any repair of a
primary structural member that replaces material without complete replacement of the
member. Areas repaired by straightening and/or bead welding are not to be construed as
splices. Gussets, backup plates or other reinforcement (protector) plates are not to be
construed as splices. An acceptable splice on steel rails is butt-welded, flush-fitting and
restores the original size and cross-sectional profile of the repaired component. On
aluminum rails, splice may overlap the damaged area (overlapped or lapped splice) and will
be riveted. An acceptable splice is a minimum of 6 in (152mm) long. Both inserts and
section (full profile) are acceptable types of splices, but not in all cases. Read inspection
criteria of the component for specific splicing allowances. If a splice would end within 12 in
(305mm) of another weld, such as at the juncture with the corner fitting, it shall be extended
to that weld. Backup plates installed on the backside of a splice are permissible if the
backup plate extends a minimum of 6 in (152mm) beyond each end of the splice.
4.2.3 Straightening. Straightening is an acceptable means of repair for certain

structural components. Repairs shall be made IAW applicable repair manuals.
4.2.4 Major defects.
4.2.4.1 General cargo container (non IMDG). If the container is to be used for shipping
general cargo or is a shelter, a major defect includes:
a. A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in any primary structural
component;
b. A missing, cracked, or broken weld at the juncture between any primary structural
57

MIL-STD-3037
components;
c. A loose or missing fastener at the juncture between any primary structural

components;
d. Any deformation such as a dent, bend or bow in any primary structural component
that is in excess of ISO external dimensional tolerances as depicted in Figure 44;
e. An improper splice (e.g. less than 6 in long) in any primary structural component; or
f. Any damage to or degradation within a structural component which could place any
person in danger during subsequent handling, stacking, or transport of the intermodal
container.
4.2.4.2 UN Hazard Class 1 container (IMDG). If the container is to be used for shipping
IMDG UN Hazard Class 1 (explosive) items, a major defect includes any of the defects
listed above for a general cargo container and also:
A dent or bend in any primary structural component that is greater than 3/4 in (19mm) in
depth, regardless of length.
4.2.5 Corner fitting. Refer to Figure 45. Corner fittings (IMDG or non IMDG) shall not
be distorted or cracked and shall not have any worn, broken or gouged apertures that would
prevent engagement or safe use of transport securement devices or container lifting
devices. No repairs may be performed on a corner fitting.
Out of square
Fracture or crack
Piece broken away
Misalignment due to
Corner Post
damaged corner
FIGURE 45. Corner fitting
58

MIL-STD-3037
4.2.6 Corner post. Refer to Figure 46. A container is unacceptable if a corner post
has any major defect.
general cargo, a major defect includes:
a. A dent or bend that is greater than 1 in (25mm) in depth, regardless of length;
b. Two or more dents on a corner post greater than 9/16 in (14mm);
c. A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure;
d. A defective, cracked, or broken weld at the juncture with a corner fitting;
e. A loose or missing fastener at the juncture with a corner fitting (aluminum frame);
f. Any deformation such as a dent, bend or bow that is in excess of ISO external
dimensional tolerances as depicted in Figure 44;
g. More than two splices or an improper splice (refer to 4.2.2). A splice shall not
extend through or across more than 1/2 the cross-sectional profile of the post;
h. Any splice in a steel corner post other than a butt welded insert or full profile splice;
i. Any splice on an aluminum corner post other than an overlap riveted splice;
j. Any splice to a square profile forward corner post that extends through more than
one formed edge;
k. Any splice on an inner profile of a rear corner post; or
l. Any deformation to a rear corner post that interferes with door function.
IMDG UN Hazard Class 1 (explosive) items, a major defect includes any of the defects
a. A dent or bend that is greater than 3/4 in (19mm) in depth, regardless of length; or
b. Any splice.
4.2.6.3 Army or Marine Corps shelter. A major defect for an Army or Marine Corps
shelter includes any of the defects listed above for a general cargo container and also:
a. A dent or bend that is greater than 1/4 in (6mm) in depth, regardless of length;
b. Any splice on an aluminum corner post other than an riveted welded lap splice;
c. A missing cam lock handle on Army Shelter corner posts. A damaged cam lock
handle which no longer performs its intended function of securing the folding panels or
damage which causes the cam lock handle to exceed ISO external dimensions (see
figure 44).
59

MIL-STD-3037
4.2.6.4 Navy shelter. A major defect for Navy shelter includes any of the defects listed
above for a general cargo container and also a dent or bend that is greater than 1 in
(25mm) in depth, regardless of length.
Loose or missing fastener

(aluminum corner post)
Tear or fracture
Cracked weld or split
Dent or bend greater than

Splice through 1/4 in (6mm) in depth for
more than one Army/Marine Corps
formed edge shelter, greater than 3/4 in
(19mm) in depth for UN
Hazard Class 1 (IMDG), or
greater than 1 in (25mm) in
NOTE: Splices are not permitted depth for general cargo or
for UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) Navy shelter
but are acceptable for general
cargo and Navy shelters
provided they are IAW paragraph
4.2.2 and do not extend through
more than one half of the cross Two or more dents greater
sectional profile of the post or than 9/16 in (14mm) in
through more than one formed depth for UN Hazard Class
edge. Army and Marine Corps 1 (IMDG), general cargo, or
shelters with aluminum corner Navy shelter
posts may only have riveted
welded lap splices.
Damaged or missing cam

Cracked or defective
lock handle on Army
weld (steel corner post)
shelter corner posts when
applicable
FIGURE 46. Corner post
60

MIL-STD-3037
4.2.7 Door end frame. Refer to Figures 47 and 48. A container is unacceptable if a rear
end frame has any major defect.
a. A dent or bend in the door header that is greater than 1-3/8 in (35mm) in depth,
regardless of length;
b. A dent or bend in the door sill that is greater than 2 in (51mm) in depth, regardless of
length;
c. A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in either the door header, or
the door sill;
e. A missing, cracked, or broken weld at the juncture between any primary structural
components;
f. A loose or missing fastener at the juncture between any primary structural

components;
g. Any deformation such as a dent, bend or bow in any primary structural component
h. An improper splice (refer to 4.2.2) in door sill or door header;
i. Any splice in a steel rail other than a butt welded insert or full profile splice;
j. Any splice on an aluminum rail other than an overlap riveted splice;
k. Any splice which interferes with the locking of the anti-rack hardware or the sealing
of the door gasket;
l. Any deformation which restricts proper operation of the door;
m. Any deformation that prevents a watertight seal.
UN Class 1 (explosive) items, a major defect includes any of the defects listed above for a
general cargo container and also:
a. A dent or bend in the door header or the door sill that is greater than 3/4 in (19mm)
in depth, regardless of length;
b. More than one splice in a door header; or
c. Any splice in a door sill.
a. A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in either the top or bottom end
rails;
61

MIL-STD-3037
b. An improper splice (see 4.2.2) in top or bottom end rails;
c. Any splice on an aluminum rail other than an overlap riveted splice;
4.2.7.4 Navy shelter. A major defect for a Navy shelter includes any of the defects
a. A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in either the top or bottom end
rails;
62

MIL-STD-3037
NOTE: Aluminum
shelters or containers Dent or bend greater than 3/4 in (19mm) in depth for UN
may use fasteners or Hazard Class 1 (IMDG), greater than 1-3/8 in (35mm) in
rivets to join structural depth for general cargo or any shelter
components.
No more than one splice permitted for UN
Hazard Class 1 (IMDG), but any number
are acceptable for general cargo and any
shelter provided they are IAW paragraph
4.2.2
Cut or tear
Door header
Corner fitting
Missing or cracked
weld (steel
containers)
Dent or bend greater than 3/4 in

(19mm) in depth for UN Hazard Cut or tear
Class 1 (IMDG), or greater than
2 in (51mm) in depth for general
cargo or any shelter Door sill. No splice permitted for
UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) but
any number are acceptable for
general cargo or shelter provided
they are IAW paragraph 4.2.2
FIGURE 47. Rear end frame
63

MIL-STD-3037
Insert Insert Insert Section
Examples of Acceptable Header and Door Sill (non IMDG) Splices
Improper Splices-Inserts not flush with remaining rail Section not in line
with rail
No insert or section splices
Door corner post within 12 in (305mm) of corner.
If less, splice shall extend to corner fitting.
Length of splice
shall be a minimum
NOTE: No splice permitted of 6 in (152mm)
in door sill and no more than
one splice on door header
permitted for UN Hazard
Class 1 (IMDG). Any
number are acceptable for
general cargo or shelter
provided they are IAW
paragraph 4.2.2.
FIGURE 48. Splice limitations for door header and sill
64

MIL-STD-3037
4.2.8 End frame (without door). Refer to Figures 49 and 50. A container is
unacceptable if an end frame has any major defect.
a. A dent or bend in the top end rail that is greater than 1-1/4 in (32mm) in depth,
b. A dent or bend in the bottom end rail that is greater than 1-9/16 in (40mm) in depth,
c. A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in either the top end rail or the
bottom end rail;
d. A missing, cracked, or broken weld at the juncture between primary structural

components;
e. A loose or missing fastener at the juncture between primary structural components;
f. Any deformation such as a dent, bend or bow in any primary structural component
g. Any splice in a steel rail other than a butt welded insert or full profile splice;
h. An improper splice in top or bottom end rail; or
i. Any splice on an aluminum rail other than an overlap riveted splice.
UN Hazard Class1 (explosive) items, a major defect includes any of the defects listed above
for a general cargo container and also:
a. A dent or bend in a top or bottom end rail that is greater than 3/4 in (19mm) in depth,
regardless of length; or
b. More than one splice in a top or bottom end rail.
a. A dent or bend in a top or bottom end rail greater than 1 in (25mm) in depth,
b. A loose or missing fastener at the juncture between any primary structural

components;
c. Any splice which interferes with the locking of the anti-rack hardware or the sealing
of the door gasket.
65

MIL-STD-3037
a. A dent or bend in a top end rail greater than 1-5/16 in (33mm) in depth, regardless of
length;
b. A loose or missing fastener at the juncture between any primary structural

components;
c. Any splice which interferes with the locking of the anti-rack hardware or the sealing
of the door gasket.
66

MIL-STD-3037
Dent or bend within 10 in Dent or bend greater than 3/4 in (19mm) in depth for
(254mm) of corner fitting UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG), greater than 1 in (25mm)
for Army/Marine Corps shelter, greater than 1-5/16 in
(33mm) for Navy shelter, or greater than 1-1/4 in
(32mm) for general cargo
Top end rail
Cut, tear or
f
Missing or
cracked weld
Corner post
Cut, tear or fracture

Mounting bracket
for aluminum end
Bottom end rail
Dent or bend greater than 3/4 in

(19mm) in depth for UN Hazard
Class 1 (IMDG), greater than 1 in
(25mm) for Army/Marine Corps
shelter, or greater than 1-9/16 in
(40mm) for general cargo or Navy
shelter Loose or missing
fastener (aluminum)
FIGURE 49. Front end frame
67

MIL-STD-3037
Insert Insert Insert Section

Examples of Acceptable End Rail Splices
Improper Splices—Inserts Not Flush With Remaining Rail
No inserts or section splice within 12 in

(305mm) of corner fitting. If less, splice shall
extend to corner fitting.
NOTE: No more than one
splice per end rail is
permitted for UN Hazard
Class 1 (IMDG), any
number are acceptable for
general cargo or shelter
provided they are IAW
paragraph 4.2.2.
Length of splice shall be a

minimum of 6 in (152mm).
FIGURE 50. Splice limitations for end rails
68

MIL-STD-3037
4.2.9 Side rails. Refer to Figures 51 through 55. A container is unacceptable if a side
rail has any major defect.
a. A dent or bend in any top side rail that is greater than 1-1/4 in (32mm) in depth,
b. A dent or bend in any flat-bar top side rail that is greater than 1 in (25mm) in depth,
c. A dent or bend in any bottom side rail web that is greater than 2 in (51mm) in depth,
d. A dent or bend in the web of any bottom side rail that is within 10 in (254mm) of a
corner fitting that is greater than 3/4 inch (19mm) in depth, regardless of length;
e. A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in any side rail;
f. A missing, cracked, or broken weld at the juncture with other primary structural
components;
g. A loose or missing fastener at the juncture with other primary structural components;
h. Any deformation such as a dent, bend or bow that is in excess of ISO external
i. An improper splice (refer to 4.2.2) in any side rail;
j. Any splice in a steel rail other than a butt welded insert or full profile splice;
k. Any splice on an aluminum rail other than an overlap riveted splice; or
l. Any splice which interferes with the proper operation of side doors (includes
operation of anti-rack hardware and gasket).
UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) (explosive) items, a major defect includes any of the defects
a. A dent or bend in any side rail that is greater than 3/4 in (19mm) in depth, regardless
of length; or
b. More than two splices in any one top or bottom side rail. (For purposes of these
criteria, the door header and door sill of a side opening container are considered to be side
rails. Splices on these components shall not interfere with the proper operation of the side
doors.)
Note: On ISO shelters with expandable or removable side walls or removable panels,
repairs to side rails shall not interfere with the proper operation of these features. This is
not a CSC requirement unless it is the only way to enter/exit the shelter (i.e. Navy SOMF-B
shelter side door).
69

MIL-STD-3037
a. A dent or bend in any top or bottom side rail that is greater than 3/4 in (19mm) in
depth, regardless of length;
b. Any splice on an aluminum rail other than an riveted or welded overlap splice.
a. A dent or bend in any top side rail that is greater than 13/16 in (21mm) in depth,
b. A dent or bend in any bottom side rail that is greater than 1-5/8 in (41mm) in depth,
c. Any splice in a steel rail other than a butt welded insert or full profile splice or overlap
riveted splice.
70

MIL-STD-3037
Indicates corner post
Cracked or
missing weld
Dent or bend within

10 in (254mm) of Indicates
corner fitting for any corner fitting
cargo
No more than two splices per

rail for UN Hazard Class 1
(IMDG), no limit for general
cargo or shelter provided they Dent or bend greater than 3/4 in
are IAW paragraph 4.2.2 (19mm) in depth for UN Hazard
Class 1 (IMDG) or Army/Marine
Corps shelter, greater than 1-5/8 in
(41mm) for Navy shelter, or greater
Cut, tear, or fracture than 2 in (51mm) for general cargo
FIGURE 51. Steel side rail
Indicates corner post
No more than two splices per

rail for UN Hazard Class 1
(IMDG), no limit for general Indicates
cargo or shelter provided corner fitting
they are IAW paragraph 4.2.2

3/4 in (19mm) in depth
permitted for UN Hazard Broken, missing, or
Class 1 (IMDG) or loose rivet/bolt
Army/Marine Corps shelter,
greater than 1-5/8 in (41mm) Dent or bend within 10 in
for Navy shelter, or greater Cut, (254mm) of corner fitting
than 2 in (51mm) for general tear, or for any cargo or shelter
cargo fracture
FIGURE 52. Aluminum side rail
71

MIL-STD-3037
No section or insert splices

within 12 in (305mm) of corner
fitting. If less, splice shall NOTE: The restrictions
extend to corner fitting. given for the top side rail
will also apply to the
bottom rail.
12 in (305mm) minimum
between repairs
Length of splice
shall be minimum
of 6 in (152mm)
NOTE: No more than two

splices on any side rail are
permitted for UN Hazard Class
1 (IMDG). Any number are
acceptable for general cargo
or shelter provided they are
IAW paragraph 4.2.2.
FIGURE 53. Splice limitations for side rails
72

MIL-STD-3037
Insert Insert Insert Insert
Examples of Acceptable Top Side Rail Splices
Improper Splices – Inserts Not Flush With Remaining Rail
FIGURE 54. Examples of steel top side rail splices
73

MIL-STD-3037
NOTE: Figures depict cross sectional profiles of bottom side rails. All examples
shown are acceptable insert splices. Full profile section splices are also acceptable.
FIGURE 55. Examples of steel bottom side rail splices
74

MIL-STD-3037
4.2.10 Floor cross members. Refer to Figures 56 through 60. Floor cross members
are considered to be a part of the primary structure and a container is unacceptable if any
floor cross member has any major defect.
4.2.10.1 General cargo container (non IMDG). If the container is to be used for
shipping general cargo or is a shelter, a major defect includes:
a. A dent or bend in the web of any floor cross member that is greater than 2 in
(51mm) in depth, regardless of length;
b. A dent or bend in the bottom flange of any floor cross member that is greater than 1-
9/16 inch (40mm) in depth, regardless of length;
c. A dent or bend in the top flange of any floor cross member that is greater than 2 in
d. A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in any floor cross member;
e. A missing, cracked, or broken weld at the juncture with the bottom side rail;
f. A loose or missing fastener at the juncture with the bottom side rail;
g. Any deformation such as a dent, bend or bow that is in excess of ISO external
h. More than two splices;
i. Any full profile splices, except for those of hot rolled profiles such as I-beams;
j. Any splice in a steel cross member other than a butt welded insert;
k. Any splice on an aluminum cross member other than an overlap riveted splice; or
l. A separation between the top of a cross member and underside of the flooring that is
greater than 3/8 in (10mm) at point of attachment.
4.2.10.2 UN Hazard Class 1 container (IMDG). If the container is to be used for

shipping UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) (explosive) items, a major defect includes any of the
defects listed above for a general cargo container and also:
a. A dent or bend in any floor cross member that is greater than 3/4 in (19mm) in
depth, regardless of length; or
a. A dent or bend in the web of any floor cross member that is greater than 1/2 in
(13mm) depth, regardless of length;
b. Any splice on an aluminum cross member other than an welded overlap splice;
75

MIL-STD-3037
a. A dent or bend in the web of any floor cross member that is greater than 1 in
b. A dent or bend in the bottom flange of any floor cross member that is greater than 1-
5/8 in (41mm) in depth, regardless of length;
Note: Above criteria also applies to gooseneck tunnel components if present.
4.2.11 Steel cross member juncture with steel side rail. Welding patterns conforming to
the original manufacturer’s design are acceptable. Only abnormal welding patterns due to
damage and/or improper repair are cause for rejection. Typically, the juncture between a
cross member and a side rail is welded continuously on one side of the joint. Since
welding patterns may vary depending on design and manufacture, inspection should be
directed at looking for broken junctures or welded repairs that are not consistent with other
corresponding welds of that container.
4.2.12 Acceptable splicing on steel cross members. A maximum of two splices per
floor cross member is permissible. An acceptable splice is a minimum of 6 in (152mm) long
and is a butt-welded insert. If a splice would end within 12 in (305mm) of another weld,
such as at the juncture with the bottom side rail, it shall be extended to that weld. An
acceptable splice restores the original size and cross-sectional profile of the cross member.
The top flange of the cross member securing it to the floor and a minimum of 1/2 in (13mm)
of the vertical web shall be left intact. A section through the complete profile is not
permitted.
4.2.13 Cross member modifications. When many of the older MILSPEC VANs were
overhauled, the middle 17 cross members were strengthened with full length angle
stiffeners. Subsequent cross member upgrades were also accomplished with a heavier (7
gauge) cross member replacement. Any combination of these modifications on the same
container is acceptable provided other limitations are adhered to and all of the middle 17
cross members have been upgraded with either a stiffener or a 7 gauge cross member.
Any number of full length angle stiffeners are also permissible on other types of containers,
but not required. Each stiffener shall extend the full length of the cross member, be fully
welded to the bottom side rails on each end, and not protrude beneath the surface of the
lower edge of the bottom side rails.
4.2.14 Gussets and end rail stiffeners. There are no specific dent or bend limitations for
gussets and end rail stiffeners. Dents and bends not affecting the structural integrity of the
container are permissible. A container is unacceptable if any weld is broken, if there are
any loose or missing fasteners, or a gusset or stiffener is missing, broken, cut, torn or
punctured. Refer to Figure 60.
4.2.15 Structural integrity of understructure. Slightly oxidized (rusted), twisted, bent,

dented, or bowed floor cross members are not a cause for rejection provided criteria of
paragraph 4.2.10 is met, welds are not broken, and in the judgment of the inspector, the
structural integrity of the container has not been reduced beyond safe limits. If the strength
of the floor is in doubt, the dynamic floor weight test specified in Annex II of the International
CSC should be conducted to ascertain that: the understructure does not deflect more than
1/4 in (6mm) below the bottom surfaces of the bottom corner fittings; no component is
permanently deformed; and no component or weld fails.
76

MIL-STD-3037
ACCEPTABLE REPAIRS
May be repaired Minimum of 12

without replacement in (305mm) from
of material attachment weld
or other insert
Dents may be Min 6 in

straightened (152mm)
Tear may be
Insert (no more than two per cross
straightened and
NOTE: Dark lines member). The top flange and the top 1/2
bead welded
in diagrams indicate in (13mm) of the web shall be left intact.
typical joint weld
Full length
stiffener added
Welded to
Full length
existing cross
replacement of
member (may
entire member
be skip welded)
Angle shall extend Shall extend from side rail

from side rail to side to side rail and be fully
rail and be fully welded on each end
welded on each end
IMPROPER REPAIR
Full profile section
FIGURE 56. Steel cross member repair limitations
77

MIL-STD-3037
Web 3/8 in (10mm) Indicates cross
Flanges
or less section of flooring
Indicates bend in bottom flange

1/2 in (13mm)
Indicates bottom
Indicates bend in web edge of side rail
Bottom of
ACCEPTABLE CROSS MEMBERS corner fitting
Note: Criteria of paragraph 4.2.10 shall be met and cross

member shall not protrude beneath the bottom surfaces of the
bottom corner fittings
Indicates cross
section of flooring
Indicates bend in web that

is greater than 2 in 1/2 in (13mm)
Greater than
(51mm) for general cargo,
3/8 in (10mm)
Indicates bottom 1/2 in (13mm) for
Bottom of
edge of side rail Army/Marine Corps
corner fitting
shelter, or 3/4 in (19mm)
for UN Hazard Class 1
UNACCEPTABLE CROSS MEMBERS
FIGURE 57. Dent and bend limitations for cross members
78

MIL-STD-3037
Weld
Indicates broken
Surface bottom side rail
cracked
Top flange
kinked/bent more than
3/4 in (19mm) for UN
Hazard Class 1
(IMDG) or more than 2
in (51mm) for general
cargo or shelter
Metal torn
Bottom flange bent

and cracked
FIGURE 58. Unacceptable steel cross member damage requiring rail replacement
NAVAIR ISO shelters Army ISO shelters
Marine Corps ISO shelters
FIGURE 59. Typical cross member configuration (ISO shelters)
79

MIL-STD-3037
NOTE: There are no specific dent

or bend limitations for gussets and
stiffeners. Welds shall not be
broken and components shall not be
missing, broken, cut, torn, or End rail
punctured. stiffener
Adjacent Bottom end rail

cross member
Corner gusset
FIGURE 60. Gussets and end rail stiffeners on steel
80

MIL-STD-3037
4.2.16 Forklift pocket. Refer to Figure 61. Forklift pockets are considered by DOD to
be a part of the primary structure and a container is unacceptable if a forklift pocket has any
major defect.
a. A dent or bend in the side of the forklift pocket that is greater than 2 in (51mm) in
depth, regardless of length;
b. A dent or bend in any tunnel plate or forklift pocket strap that is greater than 2 in
(51mm) in depth, regardless of length; or
c. A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in any component forming the
forklift pocket;
d. A missing, cracked, or broken weld at the juncture with the bottom side rail;
e. A loose or missing fastener at the juncture with the bottom side rail;
f. Any deformation such as a dent, bend or bow which prevents use of fork tines or that
is in excess of ISO external dimensional tolerances as depicted in Figure 44;
g. More than two splices or an improper splice in any cross member forming the side of
a forklift pocket; any full profile splice.
h. Any splice in a steel rail other than a butt welded insert splice;
i. Any splice on an aluminum rail other than an overlap riveted splice;
j. Any splice in a forklift pocket strap; or
k. Any damage or degradation (such as a broken strap) that would prevent safe
handling by forklift equipment and could place any person in danger during subsequent
handling, stacking, or transport of the intermodal container.
4.2.16.2 UN Hazard Class 1 container (IMDG). If the container is to be used for

shipping UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) (explosive) items, a major defect includes any of the
defects listed above for a general cargo container and also a dent or bend in any
component of the forklift pocket that is greater than 3/4 in (19mm) in depth, regardless of
length.
4.2.16.3 Army, Marine Corps or Navy shelter. A major defect for an Army, Marine
Corps or Navy shelter includes any of the defects listed above for a general cargo container
and also a dent or bend in the side of the forklift pocket that is greater than 1 in (25mm) in
depth, regardless of length.
81

MIL-STD-3037
Dent or bend in side (web) greater

than 3/4 in (19mm) for UN Hazard
Class 1 (IMDG), greater than 1 in
(25mm) for any shelter, or greater
than 2 in (51mm) for general cargo
Dent or bend in tunnel plate greater
than 3/4 in (19mm) for UN Hazard
Class 1 (IMDG) or greater than 2 in
(51mm) for general cargo or shelter
Mounting
bracket
Broken
mounting
bracket
Cut or tear
Missing, broken,
or loose rivet/bolt
(aluminum)
Broken strap
Cracked or missing
weld (steel)
Dent which does not permit

entry of fork tines
Bottom side rail
FIGURE 61. Examples of forklift pocket damage
82

MIL-STD-3037
4.2.17 Special container hardware. Refer to Figures 62 and 63.
4.2.17.1 Collapsible flatrack end wall. The end wall locking hardware for collapsible
type flatracks shall not be seized, twisted, broken, missing or otherwise inoperative. Any
twist, dent or bend that renders the folding end wall inoperable is cause for rejection.
4.2.17.2 Open-top swinging header. Header pins shall not be seized, twisted, broken,
missing, or otherwise inoperative. Any twist, dent or bend that renders the header
inoperable is cause for rejection. If the container is to be used for shipping general cargo,
or is any type of shelter, the header may have any number of proper splices but shall not
have any dents or bends greater than 1-3/8 in (35mm) in depth, regardless of length. If the
container is to be used for shipping UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) (explosive) items, the
header shall not have more than one splice and shall not have any dents or bends greater
than 3/4 in (19mm) in depth, regardless of length. Splices may not interfere with the
operation of anti-rack hardware.
NOTE: Any twist, dent or bend in

end wall or end rail that renders the
folding end wall inoperable is also
cause for rejection.
Locking bar seized,

twisted, broken
missing or otherwise
inoperative
Hinge pin seized, twisted,

broken or missing
FIGURE 62. Examples of flatrack end wall damage
83

MIL-STD-3037
Header pin seized,

twisted, broken, or
missing.

3/4 in (19mm) in depth for
UN Class 1 (IMDG), or
greater than 1-3/8 in
(35mm) for general cargo
or any shelter
No more than one

splice permitted in
header for UN Hazard
Class 1 (IMDG), but NOTE: Any twist or
any number acceptable distortion in header which
for general cargo. restricts operation is also
cause for rejection.
FIGURE 63. Swinging header damage
84

MIL-STD-3037
4.3 Non-structural components. For purposes of this criteria, non-structural

components are items such as wall, roof, and door panels or hardware that are not
otherwise specifically identified as primary (main) structural components (members).
4.3.1 Serviceability of panels. Normal wear including oxidation (rust), slight dents and
scratches, and other damage that does not affect serviceability or the structural integrity of
the container is permissible. Pinhole light leaks or porosity in seam welds between panels
or in edge welds around perimeter of wall, or roof panels and pin hole light leaks around
door panels are permissible.
4.3.2 Acceptable patching. See Figures 64, 65, 67 and 70. Repairs (patches) in wall,
roof, or door panels are permissible and may either be an overlapping lap-welded type, an
overlapping buck-riveted type, or inserted butt-welded type of repair. Lap-welded patches
should overlap existing panel by at least 1/2 in (13mm). Riveted patches should overlap
existing panel by at least 2 in (51mm). Butt-welded patches should be flush fitting. All
repairs on corrugated sections shall be neatly made, have a similar cross sectional profile,
and not affect the structural integrity of the container. All repairs, regardless of size, shall
be of a permanent nature and shall seal against the ingress of water. Rivets or other
special fasteners used for affixing patches to panels should be of a closed or blind mandril
design. Use of hollow core pop rivets for repair of steel containers shall be limited to doors
of MILSPEC VANs and shall be caulked to prevent water seepage. There is no limit on the
number of patches on a wall, roof, or door panel, provided the structural integrity of the
container is not impaired. Patches shall not overlap other patches.
Note: Small holes and tears in steel walls may be repaired with bead welding.
4.3.3 Side and end wall panels. A container is unacceptable for shipping any kind of
cargo if a wall panel has any of the following deficiencies:
general cargo or is a shelter, deficiencies includes:
a. Any hole, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in the panel, regardless of the
material of construction;
b. Any broken weld at juncture with main structural rail or corner post;
c. Loose or missing fastener in aluminum, sandwich, or FRP panel that is

separated by less than 48 in (1219mm) in any direction from another loose or missing
fastener;
d. Inward bulging or denting of the panel that reduces cargo space by more than 2
in (51mm) in any direction or that impedes cargo loading;
e. Outward bulging of the panel that extends beyond the outside surfaces of the
corner fittings;
f. Delamination of the panel that is greater than 5 in (127mm) in diameter; or
g. Any missing or loose parts or fasteners.
85

MIL-STD-3037
UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) (explosive) items, deficiencies includes any of the defects listed
above for a general cargo container and also inward bulging or denting of the panel that
reduces cargo space by more than 1-1/2 in (38mm) in any direction or that impedes cargo
loading.
Butt welded seam
Flush fitting
Exterior seam insert patch
fully welded
Sidewall panel
Overlapping
patch
Bottom side rail
EXTERIOR VIEW
Exterior seam
fully welded
Overlapping Interior seam fully

patch welded or skip
welded and sealed
INTERIOR VIEW
FIGURE 64. Acceptable wall patches (steel panel)
86

MIL-STD-3037
2 in (51mm)
2 in (51mm)
Overlapping patch
1 in (25mm)
1/2 in (13mm)
Sandwich panel
or aluminum
1 in (25mm)
1/2 in (13mm) Caulking/sealant

(between patch
and repair area)
Caulking sealant around

perimeter of patch after
installation
NOTE: Fasteners shall meet TIR
requirements. Rivets or other special
fasteners should be of a closed or
blind mandril design. If hollow core
pop rivets are used, holes shall be
caulked to prevent water seepage.
Overlapping patch Sandwich panel

or aluminum
FIGURE 65. Acceptable wall, roof and floor patches (sandwich or aluminum panel)
87

MIL-STD-3037
4.3.4 Closed roof assembly. Refer to Figures 66 and 67. A container is unacceptable
for shipping any kind of cargo if a roof assembly has any of the following deficiencies:
a. Any hole, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in a panel, regardless of the

b. Any broken weld at juncture with top rail or corner fitting;
c. Loose or missing fastener in aluminum, sandwich or FRP panel that is separated

by less than 48 in (1219mm) in any direction from another loose or missing fastener;
d. Inward bulging or denting of a panel, corner protection plate, or header extension

plate that reduces cargo space by more than 2 in (51mm) or that restricts cargo loading;
e. Outward bulging of a panel that extends beyond the top surface of the top corner
fittings;
f. Any roof bow or beam missing, cut, broken, or has a weld or bracket torn loose
from the top side rail; or
g. Delamination of the panel that is greater than 5 in (127mm) in diameter.
FOAM AND BEAM ROOF

Delaminated or AND HONEYCOMB ROOF
Striker plate
cracked sling pad
Delamination
STEEL ROOF Cracked or

broken roof bow
Broken roof Cracked roof

bow weld striker plate
Broken roof beam

(foam and beam
roof only)
Cut, hole(s) or Cracked roof

tear in roof reinforcement
FIGURE 66. Roof assembly damage damaged roof panel
88

MIL-STD-3037
Remove roof bow at

damaged area
DAMAGED ROOF PANEL
Fully weld or skip

Roof patch
weld and seal interior
patch perimeter
( t l)
Reinstall roof bow
Riveted repairs on aluminum Roof patch

or sandwich panels shall (steel panel)
conform to Figure 64.
Riveted repairs on steel
panels shall conform to Figure
PATCHED ROOF PANEL Fully weld exterior patch
69
perimeter (steel)
NOTE: Any repairs or patches shall be of a permanent nature (such as welding or

riveting).
FIGURE 67. Repaired roof assembly
89

MIL-STD-3037
4.3.5 Removable cover (tarp) assembly. Refer to Figure 68. Removable roof bows,
tarp and TIR cable are used with an open top container. They shall be inspected to ensure
serviceability and weatherproof integrity when installed on the container. A container is
unacceptable for shipping any kind of cargo if any of the following deficiencies are evident:
a. A roof bow is missing or is damaged and cannot be installed properly;
b. Any hole or tear in the tarp;
c. Tarp does not prevent seepage of water;
d. Tarp cannot be affixed to the upper portion of the container with a TIR customs
approved sealing technique;
e. Reinforced eyelets in perimeter of tarp not fitting (nesting) correctly over

corresponding loops welded on the side panels, end panels, and doors;
f. Welded loops missing, broken, or deformed so TIR cable (plastic sheathed wire
rope) cannot be threaded through all of them;
g. TIR cable damaged beyond use; or
h. Terminal on the end of the TIR cable unusable or missing.
4.3.6 Serviceability of cover (tarp) assembly. Neatly made repairs (patches) in the tarp
are permissible provided they are of similar material and seal against the penetration of
water. All repairs, regardless of size, shall be of a permanent nature such as a heat-sealed
vinyl patch. Patches shall not overlap other patches. Cracked or missing sections of the
plastic sheathing on the TIR cable are acceptable provided the wire rope core is not broken
and the cable can be properly installed.
90

MIL-STD-3037
Patches shall be of similar

material as tarp and of a
Removable roof bow shall permanent nature.
not be missing, broken, or
improperly installed.
Tarp shall not have any
holes or tears.
Wire rope, minimum of

1/8 in (3mm) diameter
Hollow “rivet” for

passing customs
seal through
Solid rivet
Wire loops shall not be

missing, broken, or
deformed such that
TIR cable cannot be Hard metal
threaded through. end piece
Transparent
plastic sheathing
Hole for closing

by carrier
TERMINAL FOR TIR CABLE
FIGURE 68. Removable cover (tarp) assembly
91

MIL-STD-3037
4.3.7 General type door assembly. Refer to Figures 69 through 73. A container is
unacceptable for shipping any kind of cargo if a door assembly has any of the following
deficiencies:
a. Any hole, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure in a door panel, regardless of the
b. Inward bulging or delamination of a door panel that reduces cargo space by

more than 1-1/2 in (40mm) or that restricts cargo loading;
c. Outward bulging or delamination of a door panel that causes any portion of the
door assembly to extend beyond the outside surfaces of the corner fittings;
d. Any seized, twisted, broken, missing, or otherwise inoperative door hardware

including hinges, hinge pins, locking bars, locking bar mounting brackets, cams, cam
retainers, handles, and handle retainers;
e. Broken or defective welds, loose or missing fasteners on anti-rack hardware;
f. Less than two hinge assemblies per door, including bolts and hinge pins, welded
or otherwise affixed in such a manner to preclude removal or dismantling of the door without
leaving obvious traces;
g. Top and bottom mounting brackets or handle retainers not of a tamper-evident

design;
h. Customs catch broken or missing; or
i. Door gasket missing, torn, or severely deformed.
4.3.8 Ramp type door. Refer to Figure 74. The criteria described for general type door
assembly (refer to paragraph 4.3.7) also applies to ramp type doors. All special hardware,
including locking bolts, safety catches and chains shall not be seized, twisted, broken,
missing, or otherwise inoperative. Any twist, dent, bend or other damage that restricts
proper door operation is cause for rejection.
92

MIL-STD-3037
Broken or loose
Badly distorted rain cam retainer or Broken cam
gutter restricting Missing, torn or defective weld
operation of door severely
deformed door
k t
J-bar
Broken or deformed
missing hinge such that
pin or TIR weld door
operation is
restricted
Hinge broken or Hole or tear in

cracked weld door panel
Door panel
bulged inward
more than 1- Locking bar
3/8 in (35mm) mounting
bracket loose
or broken
Damaged door
locking bar
Door locking handle

Customs catch Door locking handle retainer broken or
broken or missing broken or inoperative inoperative
FIGURE 69. Rear end door assembly damage
93

MIL-STD-3037
2 in (51mm)
2 in (51mm)
1 in (25mm)
1/2 in (13mm)
Metal patch
1 in (25mm)
1/2 in (13mm)
NOTE: Fasteners shall meet TIR

Caulking/sealant requirements. Rivets or other special
fasteners should be of a closed or
blind mandril design. If hollow core
pop rivets are used, holes shall be
caulked to prevent water seepage.
When repairing steel containers,
hollow core pop rivets may be used
only on MILSPEC VAN doors.
FIGURE 70. Patched door panel
94

MIL-STD-3037
A minimum of two fasteners on each of

the top and bottom brackets shall be of a
tamper-evident design and the handle
retainer hardware shall be of a tamper-
evident design. This can be satisfied
with use of peened bolts, welded nuts,
huck bolts, or other type fasteners which
preclude removal without leaving obvious
traces.
Viewed from bottom
Tack weld or special

tamper-evident fastener
FIGURE 71. TIR requirements for brackets
Cross section view of door Door gasket

edges (viewed from top)
Left Right
hand hand
door door
Custom catch required only if

door design does not otherwise
provide metal overlap
FIGURE 72. Customs catch on a steel door
95

MIL-STD-3037
Retainer screws for Door hinge or

Badly distorted rain gutter
t frame deformed
restricting door operation
such that door
operation is
restricted
Broken cam, Hinge broken or

broken or loose loose
retainer (internal)
Broken or
missing cam
lock handles
Broken or missing
Steps (see hinge pin
paragraph
3.4.19)
Door panel bulged

Distorted anti-rack inward more than 1-
hardware (internal) 3/8 in (35mm) or
outward past corner
fitting
Hole or tear Missing, torn, or

Broken door Loose or missing severely deformed door
locking bar in panel
fasteners on anti-rack gasket (internal)
hardware
NOTE: For internal door locking

hardware, see Figures 25 and 26.
FIGURE 73. Typical ISO shelter door assembly damage
96

MIL-STD-3037
NOTE: Refer to paragraph 4.3.7 and

figure 68 for identification of other
types of door damage
Missing safety
chains
Locking bolt seized,

twisted, broken, or
missing
Hinge broken or Hinge deformed

weld cracked and operation of
door restricted
FIGURE 74. Ramp type door damage
97

MIL-STD-3037
4.3.9 Cargo restraint. Refer to Figures 75 through 78. The cargo restraint system or
fixtures, when present and necessary for cargo securement, shall be in working order.
Containers without a cargo restraint system will be configured so as to provide sufficient
load bearing surfaces for safe support of dunnage materials.
4.3.9.1 Mechanical restraint system. The mechanical restraint system used in an end
opening container shall be in working order if required for cargo securement. Horizontal or
vertical rails shall not be bent or distorted, shall not have cracked or suspect welds, and
shall not have crushed or gouged slots. Horizontal or vertical rails that have crushed or
gouged slots are not cause for rejection of the container as long as the damaged slots are
not required for securing the cargo and the structural integrity of the rail is not otherwise
impaired. Shoring beam assemblies that are broken, bent, or have an inoperable locking
mechanism on either end shall be rejected for use.
4.3.9.2 Load bearing surface. Containers without a cargo restraint system will be so
configured as to provide sufficient load bearing surfaces for safe support of dunnage
materials. Surfaces on the primary structure of the container such as the interior faces of
the corner posts shall be smooth and free of protrusions.
4.3.9.3 Load retainers. Special load retainers such as a structural angle welded to
each door corner post of an end opening container shall be inspected to ensure
serviceability. A missing, cracked, or broken weld at the juncture between the load retainer
and the container structure is unacceptable. A dent or bend in the retainer that is greater
than 3/4 in (19mm) in depth, regardless of length, is also unacceptable. Load retainer shall
have no cracks, breaks, cuts, tears, punctures, or corrosive failures.
4.3.9.4 Tiedown provision (lashing bar or ring). Provisions or fittings used for
attachment of straps or other cargo restraint devices shall be in working order. Tiedown
provisions that are deformed or broken are not cause for rejection of the container as long
as the damaged tiedown provisions are not required for securing the cargo, cargo space is
not reduced by more than 2 in (51mm) in any direction, and the structural integrity of the
container is not otherwise impaired.
4.3.9.5 Stanchion. A missing, cracked, or broken weld at the juncture between a

stanchion (stake pocket) and the flatrack structure is unacceptable. Severe deformation of
a stanchion that would restrict installation of a stake is also cause for rejection.
98

MIL-STD-3037
Slot crushed, torn,

Slotted horizontal or gouged
rail, cracked, torn or
weld broken
Shoring beam assembly, broken,

bent or end locking mechanism
inoperable
Slotted vertical rail,

cracked, torn or
weld broken
FIGURE 75. Mechanical restraint system damage
99

MIL-STD-3037
Door corner post
Interior of sidewall
Dent or bend greater

than 3/4 inch (19mm)
in depth
Load retainer broken

or torn
Broken or
missing weld
FIGURE 76. Load retainer damage
100

MIL-STD-3037
Stanchion severely
deformed or weld
broken
Tiedown provision
(lashing bar) deformed
or weld broken
FIGURE 77. Damaged flatrack restraint provisions
101

MIL-STD-3037
Load bearing surface for

restraint is irregular or has
protrusions preventing the
proper placement of
dunnage assemblies
FIGURE 78. Load bearing surfaces on a van
102

MIL-STD-3037
4.3.10 Flooring. Refer to Figures 79 and 80. A container is unacceptable for shipping
any kind of cargo if the flooring has any of the following deficiencies:
a. Any protrusion, dent or delamination that protrudes above the top surface of the
adjacent flooring or fork pocket by more than 3/16 in (5mm);
b. Any floor fastener that is not countersunk or flush with the surface of the flooring;
c. Any loose or missing floor fastener;
d. Floor not free of debris or residue from a previous cargo;
e. Flooring soaked with hazardous or flammable liquid;
f. Floor contains one or more rotted or broken boards;
g. Any light leaks between floor boards;
h. Any cracked or split floor boards that allow light leaks;
i. One or more cracked, splintered, warped, stained, or delaminated boards that

impairs either the safe loading of cargo or the structural integrity of the container; or
j. Any hole, tear, puncture, or corrosive failure that permits light leak.
4.3.11 Acceptable wooden flooring repairs. Refer to Figure 81. Only one partial length
replacement board section per container length and no more than three partial length
replacement board sections throughout the entire container floor are permissible. Partial
length replacement board sections shall span at least four cross members and be of similar
material, similar size, and configuration as the rest of the flooring. Laterally adjacent
repaired sections shall not have joints on the same cross member. Both ends of each joint
shall be adequately supported by and securely fastened to the top surface of a cross
member. If the top surface (flange) of the cross member is too narrow, such as a “C”
shaped type cross member, a structural angle shall be added to provide an adequate
support surface. The added angle shall be sized to extend beneath the adjacent floor
board on each side of the repaired section.
4.3.12 Acceptable wooden floor gaps for enclosed containers. A container is

unacceptable if there is any excessive gap around the perimeter of the flooring or between
the floor boards. If a 1 in by 1/16 in thick feeler gage can be easily inserted vertically
through a gap to the underside of the container, the gap is considered excessive. Narrow
gaps less than 1/2 in wide, however, are permissible if sealed with caulking. Any opening
in the floor is unacceptable. An opening which will hold caulking can be caulked. Any
larger openings would require floor repair.
4.3.13 Structural integrity of floor structure. If the strength of the floor is in doubt, the
dynamic floor weight test specified in Annex II of the International CSC should be conducted
to ascertain that: the understructure will not deflect more than 1/4 in (6mm) below the
bottom surfaces of the bottom corner fittings; no component will be permanently deformed;
and no component or weld will fail.
103

MIL-STD-3037
Warped board
Fasteners corroded,
Stain from missing, sheared off,
substance which or loose
may damage cargo
Rotted or splintered
board
Break or split in
board where water
or sparks may enter Open joints where
container water or sparks may
enter
FIGURE 79. Wooden plank flooring damage
Hole/tear/puncture
or corrosive failure
Dent or delamination
of top surface
FIGURE 80. Sandwich panel flooring damage
104

MIL-STD-3037
Structural angle shall be welded to narrow “C” shaped cross member

under each end of replacement board section to provide an adequate
surface for attachment. Angle shall be sized to extend beyond and be
attached to adjacent floor board on each side of repaired section.
Although damage may
occur in a small area,
the replacement board
section shall be sized to
span at least four cross
members
Cross member
(“C” shape)
Cross member (I-beam

type). For “C” shape
type, see detail above
REMOVAL OF DAMAGED BOARD
NOTE: Only one partial length replacement board section per

Partial length
length of container is permitted and no more than three partial
replacement board
length replacement board sections throughout the entire
section shall span
container floor are permitted. Laterally adjacent repaired
at least four cross
sections shall not have joint resting on the same cross member.
members
FINISHED REPAIR
FIGURE 81. Example of flooring repair
105

MIL-STD-3037
4.3.14 Miscellaneous components. The following miscellaneous components affect the

serviceability of a container for shipping any kind of cargo as follows:
4.3.14.1 Threshold plate. Presence of this plate is not mandatory. If present, the
threshold plate shall be safely fastened to the floor. Any plate damage that would impair
the safe loading or unloading of cargo is cause for rejection.
4.3.14.2 Lining and lining shield. Presence of interior wall lining is not mandatory. If
present, it shall be safely fastened to the walls. Cut, torn, cracked or broken lining, or
missing or loose fasteners shall be repaired. Surface of wall lining shall be free from
protrusions or any other damage that would impair the safe loading or unloading of cargo.
Full height wall liners with holes greater than 3/8 in (10mm) shall be repaired. Normal wear
including dents, abrasions, and small punctures that does not affect serviceability is
permissible.
4.3.14.3 Ventilator. Presence of ventilator or ventilators is not mandatory. If present,

each shall be securely fastened to a wall panel. Diffused or reflected light passing through
a ventilator is permissible but ventilator should not permit direct ingress of water. Cracks or
breaks in ventilators greater than 3/8 in (10mm) shall be repaired. Light leak around
ventilator is cause for rejection.
4.3.14.4 Placard holder. Presence of placard holder or holders is not mandatory. If

present, each shall be securely fastened to a wall or door panel. Damage including dents,
bends, or crumpling is permissible provided placards may be properly installed elsewhere
on container and the damaged holder does not preclude proper handling and securement of
the container onto a vehicle or into the cell of a ship.
4.3.14.5 Pop rivets. If hollow core pop rivets are used for affixing data plates, placard
holders, ventilators, etc.; any open holes through center of such pop rivets shall be caulked
to prevent water seepage. Hollow core pop rivets shall never be used for repair of steel
panels except on the MILSPEC VAN doors.
4.3.14.6 Door holder (tieback). Presence of door holder or tieback is not mandatory. If
present and damaged, the damaged holder shall not preclude proper handling and
securement of container onto a vehicle or into a ship’s cell.
4.3.14.7 Installed equipment. Many ISO shelters and some containers are equipped
with installed equipment fastened to the structure. Prior to acceptance of a container or a
shelter an inspection of the equipment’s attachment points and shipping braces/brackets
shall be performed to ensure all items are securely fastened to the shelter or container, to
prevent movement during handling and shipment. Damage such as holes, tears, broken
welds to containers walls or floors at attachment points are cause for rejection. Fasteners
and threaded inserts shall be inspected and loose, missing, damaged, stripped or pulled
fasteners and threaded inserts shall be replaced.
4.3.14.8 Folding steps. Damage to steps is permissible so long as the damage has not
resulted in damage to the wall panel (see 3.4.2) or exceeded external dimensions.
Damage shall not be such that the steps cannot be stowed properly within ISO external
dimensions.
Note: Navy type ISO Shelters are equipped with three longitudinal skids, fastened to
106

MIL-STD-3037
the undercarriage of the shelter. These skids are used to keep the shelter off the ground
for circulation of air and to prevent moisture damage. These skids are removable and are
not considered a component of the container, and therefore, are not subject to CSC
inspection.
107

MIL-STD-3037
5. DETAILED REQUIREMENTS
5.1 Prerequisites.
5.1.1 Container type. The container type offered for service shall be of suitable size,
style, and configuration for its intended use. Container size and capacity shall be
acceptable for the shape and weight of commodity to be shipped. Container size and
configuration shall be compatible with handling and transportation equipment to be utilized.
Style of container shall meet approval of countries involved with shipment. Style of
container shall provide proper degree of security required for commodity to be shipped.
5.1.2 Inspector qualifications.
The CSC re-inspection shall be performed by certified personnel. DOD personnel may
be certified by completing AMMO-43 Intermodal Dry Cargo Container/CSC Re-inspection
Course using one of the following options: attending the class (8A-F60/551-F52)
conducted by the Defense Ammunition Center; completing the web based training (8A-
F62/551-F54 (DL)) at www.dactces.org; or completing the web based training (NOSSA-
CSCCR-AMMO43-1.0) at www.nko.navy.mil. DOD inspectors shall be re-certified every 48
months.
Serviceability (pre-loading) inspection need not be performed by a certified inspector but

inspector shall be experienced in detection of structural damage. For example, personnel
are considered to be qualified if they have at one time received formal training and are
experienced in the detection of structural damage.
5.1.3 Leased container. Inspection of a commercially owned container shall be

conducted jointly by a Government contracted inspector and the lessor/owner’s
representatives before the start of the lease and again when the container is turned in.
This ensures that only serviceable containers are accepted for use and the U.S.
Government is only billed for damages resulting from the Government’s use.
5.1.4 Judgment of criteria. The container inspection criteria will be met through a visual
examination and, except where tolerances are provided, acceptance of the container will be
based on the judgment of the inspector. Any unacceptable deficiencies disclosed by the
examination shall be corrected before the container may be used for shipment.
5.2 Suggested tools and equipment.
5.2.1 Long straight edge. A tautly drawn wire, string, or other form of a long straight
edge is needed to determine whether any portion of the container (e.g., a panel or a rail)
protrudes past the outside surfaces of the corner fittings. Refer to Figure 84 for typical
methods of checking for protrusions.
5.2.2 Measuring tape (ruler). A measuring tape (ruler) is required to check dimensional
tolerances and container alignment.
5.2.3 Welder’s hammer. A welder’s hammer (NSN 5120-00-240-3096 or equivalent) is

helpful in determining the strength of welds or steel structural components. Refer to Figure
42.
108

MIL-STD-3037
5.2.4 Ladder. A ladder or other safe means for accessing the top of the container is
recommended.
5.2.5 Inspection stands. Figure 82 depicts the implementation of container inspection

stands. Inspection stands provide a safe means for supporting the empty container to
enable proper viewing of the container understructure. Engineering drawings that provide
information for the construction of container inspection stands can be obtained by sending a
request to Defense Ammunition Center; 1 C Tree Road, ATTN: ATCL-ACE, McAlester OK
74501-9002; email usarmy.mcalester.usamc.mbx.dac-det@mail.mil; DSN 956-8927,
commercial (918) 420-8927. Please specify drawing number AC200000210. A copy of
this document is also available online at www3.dac.army.mil.
The container inspection stands are used in pairs to support a MILVAN or other 20 foot
long international shipping container at an elevated level for the repair or inspection of the
container’s underside. The stands are set up with the support ends 15 feet apart so that
the container, when on the stands, will overhang 2 to 3 feet at either end. The length of the
support beam is to insure a clear view of the underside of the container without interference
of the support bracing. It is intended that the containers will be resting on its side rails
between the tie-together plates. Longer or shorter containers may also be inspected using
container inspection stands by moving the stands, keeping the 2 to 3 foot overhand on
either end. The container inspection stand weight limit must not be exceeded.
Note: DOD personnel should also refer to service specific safety guidelines about
“Working Under a Suspended Load” as well as Technical Bulletin 43-0142 which provides
guidance for the “Safety Inspection and Testing of Devices”. American Society of
Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standard B30.1 for “Jacks, Industrial Rollers, Air Casters,
and Hydraulic Gantries – Safety Standard for Cableways, Cranes, Derricks, Hoists, Hooks,
Jacks, and Slings” is also applicable.
5.2.6 Flashlight. A flashlight improves visual acuity, especially during examination of

the interior or the recesses of the understructure.
5.2.7 Chalk. Marking (circling) location of defects with chalk as they are discovered
facilitates preparation of inspection report and helps maintenance personnel locate areas to
be repaired.
5.2.8 Feeler gauge. Excessive gaps in flooring may be determined by use of a 1 in

wide by 1/16 in thick feeler gauge. Any suitable strip of metal may be used. Refer to
Figure 83 for an example of a device that functions as either a feeler gauge or a depth
gauge.
5.2.9 Depth gauge. A device with a straight edge and a point enables inspector to
check depth of dents against a designated limit. Refer to Figure 83 for an example of a
depth gauge.
5.2.10 Tap hammer. A specially made hammer is helpful in detecting delamination in

ISO shelter sandwich panels. The hammer is lightly tapped in the area of the suspected
delamination. A dull, hollow sound indicates a delamination. Refer to Figure 85 for the
recommended construction of a tap hammer.
Note: A coin may also be used in lieu of the tap hammer.
109

MIL-STD-3037
Tie-together Support end

plates
Support end
15 ft
(4572mm)
FIGURE 82. Container inspection stands
If “feeler” gauge can be inserted

Flooring vertically between boards, gap shall
be caulked or floor shall be repaired
Bottom rail
1 in
(25mm)
If “depth” gauge is aligned over
deformed area and point does
not touch, dent exceeds limit
Depth of dent limit to be checked
12 in
(305mm)
i l
FIGURE 83. Combination depth/feeler gauge
110

MIL-STD-3037
Preferred straight edge is a

wire or string drawn tautly
Corner post or rails have unacceptable
against corner fittings
protrusions if straight edge is deflected
away from outside surfaces of the corner
fittings. Note: A board or metal
structure may be used for a straight edge
if trueness of edge has first been verified
Points on wall that contact

and deflect diagonal string
are unacceptable protrusions
NOTE: All corner posts,
rails, roof and wall panels are
subject to checking
FIGURE 84. Checking for protrusions
Ø1.00
.06R
Break sharp edge

1.25
2.50 Ø.31
12.00
All dimensions are in inches and are typical.

.50 Spherical
FIGURE 85. Tap hammer
111

MIL-STD-3037
5.3 Recommended inspection sequence. Inspection shall be performed on the

container while empty. Configured freight containers and shelters may be inspected with
permanently fastened equipment, i.e., cabinets, tables, shelves, racks, etc., in place.
Although any sequence of inspection is permissible, the sequence of inspection contained
herein is recommended and coincides with the checklists provided in this standard. A
complete examination shall be performed prior to acceptance. Even if cause for rejection
is identified, a complete inspection of DOD owned containers shall be performed so a
complete report of container condition can be provided in accordance with paragraph 5.4.4
below.
5.3.1 Markings and data plates. Check for ISO numbers, required weight markings and
appropriate data plates. Annotate container’s ISO number on inspection checklist.
5.3.2 Overall configuration. Check for any distortion of the overall configuration great
enough to preclude proper engagement of handling/lifting equipment, mounting and
securing on chassis or vehicle, or insertion into the cell of a ship. If container alignment is
in question, use a measuring tape to check dimensional tolerances in accordance with
Figure 44. Using a suitable straight edge, check for any protrusions beyond the outside
surfaces of the corner fittings. Refer to Figure 84.
5.3.3. Door end(s) or side(s). Examine the door end or side of the container. Check
main structural components of door frame for defects. Check condition and operation of
doors and door hardware. Check ISO number for legibility and to assure it matches
number annotated on inspection checklist.
5.3.4 Exterior sides and ends. Proceed to examine the container exterior on all
remaining sides and ends for any defects on main structural components or unacceptable
damage on wall panels. Check ISO number for legibility and to assure it matches number
annotated on inspection checklist.
5.3.5 Roof (exterior). Obtain access to the roof and inspect the corner fitting apertures
(openings), reinforcement plates, top side and end rails, door header, and roof panels for
defects. Check ISO numbers for legibility and to assure they match the number annotated
on the inspection checklist.
5.3.6 Understructure. Position the container on inspection stands to enable safe

viewing of the container understructure. Examine the corner fitting apertures, side and end
rails, sill, cross members, and forklift tunnels for defects. Excessive dents or bends in
flanges of cross members or rails may be mechanically straightened back within prescribed
limits by use of a large pipe wrench or adjustable wrench. This straightening should, if
possible, be performed as directed by the inspector as he/she sees fit. Refer to Figure 86.
5.3.7 Interior. Enter the container and check condition of walls, roof and flooring. If
present, also examine condition of cargo restraint system. In containers with wall linings,
examine linings closely for any safety hazards. Also check for signs of water leaks since
lined walls cannot be checked for light leaks. In containers or shelters with installed
equipment, inspect the equipment mounting.
112

MIL-STD-3037
Indicates rail or
cross member
Adjustable
wrench
FIGURE 86. Straightening flange
5.3.8 Light leak test. Remain in container, have assistant close the door(s), and mark
areas permitting direct (not diffused) light penetration. Re-open doors and re-examine the
suspect areas from both the inside and the outside to determine their affect on the structural
serviceability of the container. Keep in mind that neither CSC, IMDG Code, nor 49 CFR
state that light leaks are cause for rejection. A light leak test only serves as a tool to help
spot certain types of defects or deficiencies. Note: A light leak check will not detect a
breach in either the inner or outer skin in a sandwich panel. Causes for light leaks,
therefore, are categorized into the following five types for purposes of clarifying the
structural serviceability of container:
a. A light leak through a weld joint between main structural members indicates
possibility of defective weld juncture. Further inspection of joint shall be conducted to
ascertain if joint is defective.
b. A light leak through a seam weld in a wall, roof, or door panel or around
perimeter of such panels indicates skip or porosity in weld, or loose or missing panel
attachment fasteners. This typically is a pinhole light leak and does not degrade the main
structural integrity of the container. Caulking may be applied in many cases to preclude
any water seepage. Caulking should, if possible, be performed as directed by the
inspector as they see fit. Note: The guidance of this sub-paragraph only refers to weld
seams and perimeter welding and does not refer to holes or tears in wall, roof, or door
panels which shall be repaired by affixing a permanent repair (patch or bead welding) to the
panel.
c. Light leaks around door gaskets indicate possibility of water seepage. If gasket
is not damaged (torn, missing, or severely deformed), gasket is most likely providing same
weather tight integrity as when container was manufactured. Inspector should be looking
for damaged gaskets that no longer provide reasonable weather-proof integrity. A pinhole
light leak is not a cause for rejection.
113

MIL-STD-3037
d. Light leaks around floor boards indicate possibility of water seepage or entrance
of sparks when transported on open frame conveyance. Only light leaks due to damaged
boards or excessive gaps should be cause for rejection. Excessive gaps may be
determined by use of a 1 in wide by 1/16 in thick feeler gauge. If the feeler gauge can be
easily inserted “vertically” through the gap to the underside of the container, the gap is
considered excessive. Caulking may be used to seal narrow gaps (i.e., less than 1/2 in
wide). Wider gaps shall be repaired by replacing deficient boards or panels with similar
materials.
e. Diffused (reflected) light through components such as ventilators or lashing rings

is not cause for rejection. Any indication of a steady penetration of water or lack of
reasonable weather-proof integrity will be the only cause for rejection.
5.3.9 Pre-loading inspection.
a. A container is unacceptable for loading with any type of cargo if the DD Form
2282 decal has expired or indicates it will expire within 60 days. A CSC reinspection shall
be performed and the container certified as acceptable by a certified inspector before the
container may be used. Only certified inspectors will apply new DD Form 2282 decals.
b. If the container is to be stuffed and the DD Form 2282 decal is current, a

container remains unacceptable for loading until a preload inspection is first performed. A
pre-loading or serviceability inspection shall be conducted to assure that there has been no
obvious damage to the container since the decal was applied.
c. When required, the pre-loading inspection need not be performed by a certified

inspector; however, the person performing inspection shall be experienced in detection of
structural damage.
5.4 Documents.
5.4.1 Inspection checklist. A container inspection checklist shall be used to ensure

complete examination and to identify level of acceptance or reason(s) for rejection.
Appendix A contains required checklists for containers described in this standard, i.e. end
opening, side opening, open-top, flatrack containers, and mobile facilities and ISO shelters.
The checklists provided are for specific types of container however they can be adapted to
fit any type container, such as using the end opening container checklist to inspect a
QUADCON. Match the container to be inspected as closely as possible to one of the
checklists furnished in Appendix A. All deficiencies found during inspection should be
clearly annotated on the checklist and acceptance or rejection shall be indicated. Level of
acceptance should be annotated as either “serviceable for IMDG (UN Hazard Class 1)” or
“serviceable for General Cargo (Non-IMDG only)”. Be sure to sign and date the checklist.
Ensure DD Form 2282 decal on container is appropriate. Forward a copy of the proper
inspection report to the appropriate container control office.
5.4.2 DD Form 2282 decal. After a CSC reinspection is performed by a certified

inspector and the container is found acceptable, the inspector will apply a DD Form 2282
decal to the CSC Safety Approval Plate. Decals are issued by the Army Intermodal and
Distribution Platform Management Office (AIDPMO) and may be requested at
114

MIL-STD-3037
SDDC/AIDPMO, Bldg. 1900W, 1 Soldier Way, Scott AFB, IL 62225, or

usarmy.scott.sddc.mbx.g3-aidpmo-maintenance@mail.mil. The following data shall be
submitted with a request for decals: name; unit DODAAC; unit mailing address; POC email
address; POC phone number; and number of CSC decals required. Specific requirements
for applying the decals are as follows:
5.4.2.1 Newly manufactured container. The decal is not required on a new container
since the first CSC re-inspection due date is already inscribed on the CSC plate. A CSC
recertification inspection is not required until the fifth year from manufacturer date or after a
major structural repair.
5.4.2.2 Subsequent to repair. Each subsequent CSC examination remains current for a
maximum interval of 30 months. A new decal is not mandatory following minor
(organizational level – under $300) repairs as long as the existing DD Form 2282 decal has
not expired or is not due to expire within 60 days. A complete CSC reinspection and
application of a new decal is required after depot level maintenance is performed. The new
decal will indicate a CSC reinspection due date (month and year) at 30 months from the
month of current inspection and acceptance.
5.4.2.3 Serviceable for general cargo. Containers not meeting serviceability

requirements prescribed for the shipment of UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) explosive
materials, but still complying with basic criteria for shelters and general cargoes, will be
marked with DD Form 2282 decal displaying only “NON-IMDG” portion of the decal. Refer
to Figure 87. Marking a container in this manner indicates container is only acceptable for
shipment of general cargoes and cannot be used for UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) (explosive)
items.
5.4.2.4 Serviceable for UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG). Containers complying with basic
criteria for general cargoes and meeting all the serviceability requirements prescribed for
the shipment of UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) materials, will be marked with a DD Form 2282
decal displaying both “IMDG” portion and “NON-IMDG” portion of the decal. Refer to
Figure 87. Marking a container in this manner indicates container is acceptable for
shipment of all items including ammunition and explosives.
5.4.3 UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) declaration. All container shipments of UN Hazard

Class 1 (IMDG) materials except those in Division 1.4 being transported partially or totally
by vessel, shall be accompanied by a certificate declaring that the freight container is
structurally serviceable as defined in 49 CFR paragraph 176.172 and loaded in accordance
with IMDG Code paragraph 5.4.2.1. The recommended format for this certificate contained
in DD Form 2890, “DOD MULTIMODAL DANGEROUS GOODS DECLARATION”.
Alternatively, local installations may electronically generate their own forms provided the
format is similar and all information required per 49 CFR and IMDG Code is clearly
described on the certificate.
5.4.4 Inspection report. Inspection of DOD owned containers shall be reported on the
proper Service form such as the DA Form 2404, “Equipment Inspection and Maintenance
Worksheet” and “ISO Container Inspection Checklist”. Per the DTR 4500.9 Part VI,
Chapter 604, a copy of the inspection report shall be completed and uploaded into the Army
Container Asset Management System (ACAMS) or the Service or agency designated
system. Centralized control of this documentation is important since the law (49 CFR, Para
115

MIL-STD-3037
452.3(b)) requires that the most recent container inspection report be maintained and made
available to the Coast Guard upon request.
Notes: 1. To improve clarity, decals are shown larger than actual size.
2. Decals are to be removed completely from containers failing the applicable
inspection criteria
Decal with top “IMDG” portion remaining Decal with top “IMDG” portion removed (or
indicates container is serviceable for cut off) indicates container is only
shipment of all items including UN Hazard serviceable for shipment of general cargoes
Class 1 (IMDG) items (ammunition and and cannot be used for UN Hazard Class 1
explosives). (IMDG) items.
Punch hole indicates that Punch hole indicates that

CSC reinspection is due FIGURE 87. DD FORM 2282 decal CSC reinspection is due
before Feb 2013 before Oct 2013
116

MIL-STD-3037
6. NOTES
(This section contains information of a general or explanatory nature that may be helpful,
but is not mandatory).
6.1 Intended use. The inspection criteria covered by this standard are intended for use
when visually examining intermodal freight containers. The criteria and procedures
contained herein will enable personnel to identify containers that are serviceable and safe
for loading and shipping.
6.2 Associated data item descriptions (DIDs). This standard has been assigned an
Acquisition Management Systems Control number authorizing it as the source document for
the following DIDs. When it is necessary to obtain the data, the applicable DIDs must be
listed on the Contract Data Requirements List (DD Form 1423).
DID Number DID Title

xxxxxx
The above DIDs were current as of the date of this standard. The ASSIST database
should be researched at https://assist.dla.mil to ensure that only current and approved DIDs
are cited on the DD Form 1423.
6.3 Supersession. This standard replaces MIL-HDBK-138, GUIDE TO CONTAINER

INSPECTION FOR COMMERCIAL AND MILITARY INTERMODAL CONTAINERS, which
has been cancelled.
6.4 Subject term (key word) listing
Ammunition
Anti-rack hardware
Bottom end rail
Bottom side rail
Cargo
Corner fitting
Corner post
Cross member
CSC
Door header
Door sill
Expandable
Flooring
Forklift pocket
Forklift pocket strap
Freight
Front end frame
Gooseneck tunnel
IMDG
ISO
117

MIL-STD-3037
Mechanical restraint system

MILVAN
Non-expandable
Non IMDG
Platform
Rear end frame
Reinspection decals
Rigid
Top end rail
Top side rail
Understructure
Wall
118

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
INSPECTION CHECKLISTS
A.1 SCOPE
A.1.1 Scope. This appendix is comprised of six checklists for use in inspecting ISO
containers. This appendix is a mandatory part of the standard. The information contained
herein is intended for compliance.
A.2 DEFINITIONS
A.2.1 Major defect. Any defect that is equal to or exceeds the major defect definitions
delineated in section 4. A major defect may be either a non-IMDG major defect or an
IMDG major defect. Major defects are to be annotated in the ISO Container Inspection
Checklists that follow under “Defects” within the “CSC” column. All DOD containers will be
inspected to IMDG standards first. If a container does not meet IMDG standards, it will
then be evaluated to determine if it can meet the non-IMDG criteria.
A.2.2 Minor defect. Any defect that does not exceed either the non-IMDG or the IMDG
defects delineated in section 4. Minor defects are to be annotated in the ISO Container
Inspection Checklists that follow under “Defects” within the “Minor” column, and are not
solely cause for failure of the container, regardless of their number.
A.3 CHECKLISTS
A.3.1 Inspection checklists. Tables A-I through A-VI depict six different types of
inspection checklists, including end opening, flatrack, open-top and side opening container
checklists, as well as mobile facility and tactical shelter inspection checklists. These
checklists are mandatory for use to document container inspection, and are to be completed
and forwarded as detailed in paragraph 5.4.1. For containers not specifically identified in a
checklist, a combination of checklist may be utilized, for example, side and end opening
containers will be inspected using both Table A-I and A-V.
119

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
ISO Number: Date of Inspection:
Type of Container: (Circle One) (Circle One) New Decal Installed

Pass IMDG & non IMDG New Expiration Date
END OPENING CONTAINER Month Year
Fail Non IMDG ONLY
Installation/Activity: Inspected By:
EXTERIOR
DOORS ROADSIDE FRONT CURBSIDE
Component Defects Component Defects Component Defects Component Defects
Minor CSC Minor CSC Minor CSC Minor CSC
CSC PLATE ISO NUMBER ISO NUMBER ISO NUMBER
STENCILS CORNER FITTINGS CORNER FITTINGS CORNER FITTINGS
ISO NUMBERS CORNER POSTS CORNER POSTS CORNER POSTS
CORNER POSTS TOP SIDE RAIL TOP END RAIL TOP SIDE RAIL
CORNER FITTINGS BOTTOM SIDE BOTTOM END RAIL BOTTOM SIDE RAIL
RAIL
DOOR HEADER FORKLIFT PANEL FORKLIFT POCKETS
POCKETS
DOOR SILL PANEL PLACARD HOLDER PANEL
DOOR PANELS PLACARD HOLDER PLACARD HOLDER
DOOR LINING
DOOR GASKETS
RODS
ROD RETAINERS
CAMS
CAM RETAINERS
J-BARS
RAIN GUTTERING
PLACARD HOLDER
(CIRCLE DEFECTS) (CIRCLE DEFECTS) (CIRCLE DEFECTS)

REMARKS:
(CIRCLE DEFECTS)
TABLE A-I. End opening container inspection checklist
120

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
TABLE A-I (continued)
ISO Number:
END OPENING CONTAINER (continued)
EXTERIOR INTERIOR
ROOF BOTTOM FLOOR ROOF
Component Defects Component Defects Component Defects Component Defects
Minor CSC Minor CSC Minor CSC Minor CSC
ISO NUMBERS CORNER FITTINGS FLOORING ROOF PANEL
CORNER FITTINGS BOTTOM END RAIL FLOOR FASTENERS ROOF BOWS
TOP END RAIL BOTTOM SIDE RAIL THRESHOLD PLATE LIGHT LEAKS
DOOR HEADER DOOR SILL TIE-DOWN DEVICES
TOP SIDE RIALS CROSSMEMBERS LIGHT LEAKS
ROOF PANEL FORKLIFT TUNNELS
FRONT FRONT FRONT
REAR REAR REAR

(CIRCLE DEFECTS) (CIRCLE DEFECTS) (CIRCLE DEFECTS) (CIRCLE DEFECTS)
INTERIOR REMARKS:
ROADSIDE FRONT CURBSIDE
Component Defects Component Defects Component Defects
Minor CSC Minor CSC Minor CSC
PLYWOOD LINING PLYWOOD LINING PLYWOOD LINING
KICK PLATE KICK PLATE KICK PLATE
VERTICAL RAIL LOAD BEARING VERTICAL RAIL
SURFACES
HORIZONTAL RAIL LIGHT LEAKS HORIZONTAL RAILS
LIGHT LEAKS LIGHT LEAKS
FRONT
ROADSIDE CURBSIDE
(CIRCLE DEFECTS)
121

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A

FLATRACK CONTAINER Month Year
Fail non IMDG
END A SIDE A
Component Defects Component Defects
Minor CSC Minor CSC
SAFETY APPROVAL PLATE SIDE RAIL
ISO NUMBERS STANCHIONS
STENCILS TIE DOWN PROVISIONS
CORNER FITTINGS FORKLIFT POCKETS
CORNER POSTS
TOP END RAIL
PANEL
WALL POSTS
LOCKING HARDWARE
(CIRCLE DEFECTS) REMARKS:
SIDE A
END A
TABLE A-II. Flatrack container inspection checklist
122

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
TABLE A-II (continued)
ISO Number: FLATRACK CONTAINER

(continued)
END B SIDE B BOTTOM
Component Defects Components Defects Component Defects
CORNER FITTINGS SIDE RAIL CORNER FITTINGS
CORNER POSTS FORKLIFT POCKETS BOTTOM SIDE RAILS
TOP END RAIL STANCHIONS BOTTOM END RAILS
BOTTOM END RAIL TIE DOWN PROVISIONS CROSSMEMBERS
PANEL FORKLIFT TUNNELS
WALL POSTS
LOCKING HARDWARE
(CIRCLE DEFECTS)
END B
SIDE B
BOTTOM
END B
CARGO SPACE REMARKS:
Component Defects
Minor CSC
FLOORING
FLOOR FASTENERS
123

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
Type of Container: Inspect this container (Circle One) New Decal Installed
to non IMDG New Expiration Date
MOBILE FACILITY standards only.
Pass Fail Month Year
Power input connections are located on the front end of the MF. The ECU and CSC plate are located on
the left side of a standard satellite MF.
FRONT RIGHT SIDE LEFT SIDE
ISO CORNER ISO CORNER ISO CORNER
CORNER POSTS CORNER POST CORNER POST
TOP END RAIL TOP SIDE RAIL TOP SIDE RAIL
BOTTOM END RAIL BOTTOM SIDE RAIL BOTTOM SIDE RAIL
RIVETS RIVETS RAIL
MF SKIN MF SKIN MF SKIN
DOOR/PLUGS DOOR/PLUGS DOOR/PLUGS
STENCIL STENCIL STENCIL
FORKLIFT POCKETS FORKLIFT POCKETS
CSC PLATE
(CIRCLE DEFECTS)
(1) MAF MCN: ___________

REMARKS:
TABLE A-III. Mobile facility inspection checklist
124

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
TABLE A-III (continued)
ISO Number: TEC

MOBILE FACILITY (continued)
Power input connections are located on the front end of the MF. The ECU and CSC plate are located on
the left side of a standard satellite MF.
REAR TOP BOTTOM
ISO CORNER ISO CORNER ISO CORNER
CORNER POSTS TOP RAIL, FRONT CROSS MEMBERS
TOP END RAIL TOP RAIL, REAR FORKLIFT POCKETS
BOTTOM END RAIL TOP SIDE RAIL, LEFT BOTTOM SIDE RAIL, LEFT
RIVETS TOP SIDE RAIL, RIGHT BOTTOM SIDE RAIL, RIGHT
MF SKIN RIVETS BOTTOM END RAIL, FRONT
DOOR/PLUGS MF SKIN BOTTOM END RAIL, REAR
STENCIL DOUBLER PLATES FLOOR
SLING PAD
(CIRCLE DEFECTS)
REMARKS:
125

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
TABLE A-III (continued)
ISO Number: TEC

MOBILE FACILITY (continued)
Power input connections are located on the front end of the MF. The ECU and CSC plate are located
on the left side of a standard satellite MF.
INTERIOR
CEILING FLOOR WALLS
SKIN MATTING SKIN
LIGHT LEAKS RIVNUTS ELEC. RACEWAYS
ECU RAILS RAILS
LIGHTS MOLES
AIRE DUCT CIRCUIT BREAKER BOX
ECU PLENUM
(CIRCLE DEFECTS)
DOORS
Component Defects
FRONT BACK RIGHT SIDE
Minor CSC
SKIN
LIGHT LEAKS
HANDLE
EMERG THUMB SCREW
BOLTS
HARDWARE
REMARKS:
126

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A

OPEN-TOP CONTAINER Month Year
Fail Non IMDG ONLY
Installation/ Activity: Inspected By:
DOORS CURBSIDE ROOF ASSEMBLY

SAFETY APPROVAL PLATS ISO NUMBER CORNER FITTINGS
STENCILS CORNER FITTINGS TOP END RAIL
ISO NUMBERS CORNER POSTS TOP SIDE RAIL
CORNER FITTINGS TOP SIDE RAIL ROOF BOWS
CORNER POSTS BOTTOM SIDE RAIL TARP
SWINGING HEADER FORKLIFT POCKETS TIR CABLE
SWINGING HEADER PANEL
HARDWARE
SAFETY CHAINS METAL LOOPS
DOOR SILL PLACARD HOLDER
DOOR PANELS
RODS (CIRCLE DEFECTS)
CAMS
CAM RETAINERS RAMP TYPE DOOR
DOOR GASKETS
J-BAR
METAL LOOPS
PLACARD HOLDERS
REMARKS:
ROOF ASSEMBLY
CURBSIDE
SWINGING DOOR
TABLE A-IV. Open-top container inspection checklist
127

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
TABLE A-IV (continued)
ISO Number:
OPEN-TOP CONTAINER
(continued)
FRONT ROADSIDE BOTTOM
Component Defects Component Defects Component Defect
ISO NUMBER ISO NUMBER CORNER FITTINGS
CORNER FITTINGS CORNER FITTINGS BOTTOM SIDE RAIL
CORNER POSTS CORNER POSTS BOTTOM END RAIL
TOP END RAIL TOP SIDE RAIL DOOR SILL
BOTTOM END RAIL BOTTOM SIDE RAIL CROSS MEMBER
PANEL FORKLIFT POCKETS FORKLIFT TUNNEL
METAL LOOPS PANEL FLOORING
PLACARD HOLDER METAL LOOPS
PLACARD HOLDER
ROADSIDE
FRONT
BOTTOM
INTERIOR
Minor CSC Minor CSC
FLOORING WALL PANEL
FLOOR FASTENERS LOAD-BEARING
SURFACE
LIGHT LEAKS
(CIRCLE DEFECTS) FRONT
ROADSIDE
CURBSIDE
INTERIOR
FRONT
REAR
FLOOR
128

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
Type of Container: Circle One: Circle One: New Decal Installed

SIDE OPENING CONTAINER
Fail Non IMDG only
Month Year
DOORS LEFT END EXTERIOR ROOF

CSC PLATE ISO NUMBER ISO NUMBER
STENCILS TOP END RAIL TOP SIDE RAILS
ISO NUMBERS BOTTOM END RAIL TOP END RAILS
CORNER POSTS CORNER POSTS CORNER FITTINGS
CORNER FITTINGS CORNER FITTINGS ROOF PANEL
TOP SIDE RAIL PANEL
BOTTOM SIDE RAIL PLACARD HOLDER
DOOR PANELS (CIRCLE DEFECTS)
ROD RETAINERS
CAMS
CAM RETAINERS
HANDLES
HANDLE RETAINERS
J-BARS
PLACARD HOLDER
REMARKS:
OPEN DOORS
ROOF
LEFT END DOOR SIDE
TABLE A-V. Side opening container inspection checklist
129

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
TABLE A-V (continued)
ISO Number:
SIDE OPENING CONTAINER
(continued)
RIGHT END BOTTOM BACKSIDE

ISO NUMBER CORNER FITTINGS ISO NUMBER
TOP END RAIL BOTTOM END RAILS TOP SIDE RAIL
BOTTOM END RAIL BOTTOM SIDE RAILS BOTTOM SIDE RAIL
CORNER POSTS CROSSMEMBERS FORKLIFT POCKETS
CORNER FITTINGS FORKLIFT TUNNELS CORNER POSTS
PANEL CORNER FITTINGS
PLACARD HOLDER PANEL
PLACARD HOLDER
BACKSIDE
RIGHT END
BOTTOM
INTERIOR
Component Defects Defects
Minor CSC Minor CSC

FLOORING WALL PANELS
FLOOR FASTENERS LOAD-BEARING SURFACES
ROOF PANEL TIE-DOWN DEVICES
ROOF BOWS LIGHT LEAKS
(CIRCLE DEFECTS) BACKSIDE
LEFT RIGHT
INTERIOR
RIGHT
DOORSIDE
LEFT
FLOOR
130

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
Type of Container: Inspect this (Circle One) New Decal Installed

container to New Expiration Date
TACTICAL SHELTER non IMDG Pass Fail
standards only. Month Year
DOORS/ENDS ROADSIDE BOTTOM

SAFETY APPROVAL ISO NUMBER CORNER FITTINGS
PLATE
STENCILS CORNER FITTINGS FRONT DOOR SILL
ISO NUMBERS CORNER POSTS REAR DOOR SILL
CORNER FITTINGS TOP SIDE RAIL BOTTOM SIDE RAILS
CORNER POSTS BOTTOM SIDE RAIL CROSSMEMBERS
CAM LOCKS FOR SIDE FORKLIFT POCKETS FORKLIFT TUNNELS
PANELS
DOOR HEADER PANEL
DOOR SILL
HINGES (CIRCLE DEFECTS)
RODS
ROD RETAINERS
CAMS REAR DOORS
CAM RETAINERS
HANDLES
HANDLE RETAINERS
DOOR GASKETS
FOLDING STEPS
REMARKS:
EXTERIOR INTERIOR
ROADSIDE
FRONT DOOR
BOTTOM
TABLE A-VI. Tactical shelter inspection checklist
131

MIL-STD-3037
APPENDIX A
TABLE A-VI (continued)
ISO Number:
TACTICAL SHELTER (continued)
EXTERIOR INTERIOR
CURBSIDE ROOF REMARKS:
Minor CSC Minor CSC
ISO NUMBER ISO NUMBER
CORNER FITTINGS CORNER FITTINGS
CORNER POSTS REAR DOOR HEADER
TOP SIDE RAIL FRONT DOOR HEADER
BOTTOM SIDE RAIL TOP SIDE RAILS
FORKLIFT POCKETS PANEL
PANEL STRIKER PLATES
SLING PAD
(CIRCLE DEFECTS)
ROOF
CURBSIDE
REAR
INTERIOR
Minor CSC Minor CSC
FLOORING DOOR LININGS
FLOOR FASTENERS INNER DOOR HANDLES
WALL PANELS LIGHT LEAKS
ROOF PANEL
(CIRCLE DEFECTS)
FRONT
FLOOR
REAR
FRONT
ROADSIDE CURBSIDE
REAR
INTERIOR
132

MIL-STD-3037
INDEX
PARAGRAPH PAGE
3-point latch............................................................................ 3.5.16 30

Acceptable patching ............................................................... 4.3.2 85
Acceptable splicing................................................................. 4.2.2 57
Acceptable splicing on steel cross members.......................... 4.2.12 76
Acceptable welding patterns .................................................. 4.2.1 57
Acceptable wooden floor gaps for enclosed containers ......... 4.3.12 103
Acceptable wooden flooring repairs ....................................... 4.3.11 103
ACEP (Approved Continuous Examination Program) ............ 3.7.5 42
Anti-rack hardware ................................................................. 3.5.12 29
Applicability ............................................................................ 1.2 1
Applicable documents ............................................................ 2 2
Army, Marine Corps or Navy shelter ...................................... 4.2.16.3 81
Army or Marine Corps shelter ................................................ 4.2.6.3 59
4.2.7.3 61
4.2.8.3 65
4.2.9.3 70
4.2.10.3 75
Army tactical ISO shelter ........................................................ 3.2.8.1 13
Associated data item descriptions (DIDs)............................... 6.2 117
Backup plate .......................................................................... 3.8.4 49
BICON container .................................................................... 3.2.9 17
Bottom end rail ....................................................................... 3.3.7 18
Bottom side rail ...................................................................... 3.3.10 18
Cam........................................................................................ 3.5.8 29
Cam lock handle .................................................................... 3.6.9 37
Cam retainer .......................................................................... 3.5.9 29
Cargo restraint ....................................................................... 3.6.4 36
4.3.9 98
Caulking ................................................................................. 3.8.13 49
Chain bolt ............................................................................... 3.5.17 30
Chalk ...................................................................................... 5.2.7 109
Closed roof assembly ............................................................. 4.3.4 88
Collapsible flatrack end wall ................................................... 4.2.17.1 83
Configuration .......................................................................... 4.1.3 55
Consolidated data plate.......................................................... 3.7.9 42
Container................................................................................ 3.6.1 36
Container type ........................................................................ 5.1.1 108
Conventions and markings ..................................................... 3.7 42
Corner fitting........................................................................... 3.3.1 18
4.2.5 58
133

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
Corner post ............................................................................ 3.3.2 18

4.2.6 59
Corrosive failure ..................................................................... 3.8.12 49
Cross member ........................................................................ 3.3.11 18
Cross member modifications .................................................. 4.2.13 75
CSC (International Convention for Safe Containers) .............. 3.7.3 42
CSC safety approval plate...................................................... 3.7.4 42
Customs catch ....................................................................... 3.5.13 29
Damage and repair................................................................. 3.8 49
DD Form 2282 decal .............................................................. 5.4.2 114
Definitions .............................................................................. 3 5
Delamination .......................................................................... 3.8.16 50
Depth gauge........................................................................... 5.2.9 109
Detailed requirements ............................................................ 5 108
Documents ............................................................................. 5.4 114
Door assembly ....................................................................... 3.5 29
Door end frame ...................................................................... 4.2.7 61
Door end(s) or side(s) ............................................................ 5.3.3 112
Door header ........................................................................... 3.3.3 18
Door holder (tieback) .............................................................. 4.3.14.6 106
Door locking handle................................................................ 3.5.10 29
Door locking handle retainer .................................................. 3.5.11 29
Door panel.............................................................................. 3.5.1 29
Door post vertical retainer ...................................................... 3.6.4.1 36
Door seal (gasket) .................................................................. 3.5.14 30
Door sill .................................................................................. 3.3.4 18
Dunnage................................................................................. 3.6.4.2 36
End frame (without door) ........................................................ 4.2.8 65
Exterior sides and ends .......................................................... 5.3.4 112
Feeler gauge .......................................................................... 5.2.8 109
Fiberglass reinforced plywood (FRP) ..................................... 3.4.1 21
Flange .................................................................................... 3.8.8 49
Flashlight ................................................................................ 5.2.6 109
Floor cross members.............................................................. 4.2.10 75
Flooring .................................................................................. 3.4.16 22
4.3.10 103
Folding steps .......................................................................... 4.3.14.8 106
Foot bolt ................................................................................. 3.5.18 30
Forklift pocket ......................................................................... 3.3.13 18
4.2.16 81
Forklift pocket strap ................................................................ 3.3.14 19
Format .................................................................................... 1.3 1
Front end frame ...................................................................... 3.3.8 18
134

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
General .................................................................................. 2.1 2

3.1 5
4.1 55
General cargo container (non IMDG) ..................................... 4.2.4.1 57
4.2.6.1 59
4.2.7.1 61
4.2.8.1 65
4.2.9.1 69
4.2.10.1 75
4.2.16.1 81
General requirements............................................................. 4 55
General type door assembly .................................................. 4.3.7 92
Gooseneck tunnel .................................................................. 3.3.15 19
Government documents ......................................................... 2.2 2
Gusset .................................................................................... 3.8.3 49
Gussets and end rail stiffeners ............................................... 4.2.14 76
Hinge ...................................................................................... 3.5.3 29
Hinge pin ................................................................................ 3.5.4 29
Hinge pin weld ........................................................................ 3.5.5 29
Hole ........................................................................................ 3.8.9 49
IMDG ...................................................................................... 3.6.11 37
Insert ...................................................................................... 3.8.5 49
Inspection checklist ................................................................ 5.4.1 114
Inspection report .................................................................... 5.4.4 115
Inspection stands ................................................................... 5.2.5 109
Inspector qualifications ........................................................... 5.1.2 108
Installed equipment ................................................................ 4.3.14.7 106
Intended use .......................................................................... 6.1 117
Interior .................................................................................... 5.3.7 112
Intermodal .............................................................................. 3.6.2 36
ISO (International Organization for Standardization) .............. 3.7.1 42
ISO markings ......................................................................... 3.7.2 42
J-bar ....................................................................................... 3.5.2 29
Joint strip ................................................................................ 3.4.17 22
Judgment of criteria ................................................................ 5.1.4 108
Kick plate................................................................................ 3.4.8 21
Ladder .................................................................................... 5.2.4 109
Leased container .................................................................... 5.1.3 108
Light leak test ......................................................................... 5.3.8 113
Lining...................................................................................... 3.4.6 21
Lining and lining shield ........................................................... 4.3.14.2 106
Lining shield ........................................................................... 3.4.7 21
135

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
Load bearing surface.............................................................. 3.6.4.3 36

4.3.9.2 98
Load retainers ........................................................................ 4.3.9.3 98
Locking bar............................................................................. 3.5.6 29
Locking bar mounting bracket ................................................ 3.5.7 29
Long straight edge.................................................................. 5.2.1 108
Major defects .......................................................................... 4.2.4 57
Manufacturer’s data plate ....................................................... 3.7.8 42
Marine Corps tactical ISO shelter ........................................... 3.2.8.2 14
Marking panel......................................................................... 3.4.5 21
Markings and data plates ....................................................... 4.1.2 55
5.3.1 112
Maximum gross weight........................................................... 3.6.7 37
Measuring tape (ruler) ............................................................ 5.2.2 108
Mechanical restraint system ................................................... 4.3.9.1 98
Mechanical restraint system for MILSPEC VAN ..................... 3.6.4.4 36
MILSPEC VAN ....................................................................... 3.6.3 36
Miscellaneous components .................................................... 4.3.14 106
Navy shelter ........................................................................... 4.2.6.4 60
4.2.7.4 62
4.2.8.4 65
4.2.9.4 70
4.2.10.4 75
Navy tactical ISO shelter ........................................................ 3.2.8.3 15
Newly manufactured container ............................................... 5.4.2.1 115
Non IMDG .............................................................................. 3.6.12 37
Non-Government publications ................................................ 2.3 3
Non-structural components .................................................... 4.3 85
Notes ...................................................................................... 6 117
Objective ................................................................................ 1.4 1
Open-top swinging header ..................................................... 4.2.17.2 83
Order of precedence .............................................................. 2.4 4
Other Government documents, drawings, and publications ... 2.2.2 2
Overall configuration .............................................................. 5.3.2 112
Overlap (lapped) .................................................................... 3.8.15 50
Patch ...................................................................................... 3.8.1 49
Payload .................................................................................. 3.6.6 37
Pinhole ................................................................................... 3.8.10 49
Placard holder ........................................................................ 3.7.10 43
4.3.14.4 106
Pop rivets ............................................................................... 4.3.14.5 106
Pre-loading inspection vs. CSC reinspection ......................... 5.3.9 114
Prerequisites .......................................................................... 5.1 108
136

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
Primary structural components ............................................... 3.3 18

4.2 57
Purpose .................................................................................. 1.1 1
QUADCON container ............................................................. 3.2.9 17
Rain gutter.............................................................................. 3.5.15 30
Ramp type door ...................................................................... 4.3.8 92
Rear end frame ...................................................................... 3.3.5 18
Recommended inspection sequence ..................................... 5.3 112
Regulatory mandates ............................................................. 4.1.1 55
Removable cover (tarp) assembly .......................................... 4.3.5 90
Roof (exterior) ........................................................................ 5.3.5 112
Roof beam.............................................................................. 3.4.12 21
Roof bow ................................................................................ 3.4.11 21
Roof panel .............................................................................. 3.4.10 21
Roof reinforcement plate ........................................................ 3.4.13 21
Sandwich panel ...................................................................... 3.4.20 23
Scope ..................................................................................... 1 1
Section (full profile)................................................................. 3.8.6 49
Serviceability of cover (tarp) assembly ................................... 4.3.6 90
Serviceability of panels........................................................... 4.3.1 85
Serviceable for general cargo ................................................ 5.4.2.3 115
Serviceable for UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) ........................... 5.4.2.4 115
Shelter .................................................................................... 3.6.8 37
Side and end wall panels ....................................................... 4.3.3 85
Side rails ................................................................................ 4.2.9 69
Skids ...................................................................................... 3.6.10 37
Sling pad ................................................................................ 3.4.22 22
Special container hardware .................................................... 4.2.17 83
Special terminology ................................................................ 3.6 36
Specifications ......................................................................... 2.2.1 2
Splice ..................................................................................... 3.8.2 49
Stanchion ............................................................................... 3.6.4.5 36
4.3.9.5 98
Steel cross member juncture with steel side rail .................... 4.2.11 76
Steps ...................................................................................... 3.4.19 22
Straightening .......................................................................... 4.2.3 57
Striker plate ............................................................................ 3.4.21 22
Structural integrity of floor structure........................................ 4.3.13 103
Structural integrity of understructure ...................................... 4.2.15 76
Subject term (key word) listing ............................................... 6.4 117
Subsequent to repair .............................................................. 5.4.2.2 115
Suggested tools and equipment ............................................. 5.2 108
Supersession ......................................................................... 6.3 117
137

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
Tactical ISO shelter ................................................................ 3.2.8 12

Tap hammer ........................................................................... 5.2.10 109
Tare weight ............................................................................ 3.6.5 37
Tarp ........................................................................................ 3.4.14 21
Threshold plate ...................................................................... 3.4.18 22
4.3.14.1 106
Tiedown provision (lashing bar or ring) .................................. 3.6.4.6 36
4.3.9.4 98
TIR (Transport Internationale des Routiers) ........................... 3.7.6 42
TIR cable ................................................................................ 3.4.15 21
TIR markings or plate ............................................................. 3.7.7 42
Top end rail ............................................................................ 3.3.6 18
Top side rail............................................................................ 3.3.9 18
TRICON container .................................................................. 3.2.9 17
Typical end and side opening container ................................. 3.2.5 8
Typical end opening aluminum container ............................... 3.2.2 6
Typical end opening fiberglass reinforced
plywood (FRP) container ............................................. 3.2.3 7
Typical end opening steel container ....................................... 3.2.1 5
Typical flatrack container........................................................ 3.2.7 11
Typical ISO containers ........................................................... 3.2 5
Typical open top container ..................................................... 3.2.6 9
Typical side opening container ............................................... 3.2.4 8
UN Hazard Class 1 (IMDG) declaration ................................. 5.4.3 115
UN Hazard Class 1 container (IMDG) .................................... 4.2.4.2 58
4.2.6.2 59
4.2.7.2 61
4.2.8.2 65
4.2.9.2 69
4.2.10.2 75
4.2.16.2 81
Undercoating .......................................................................... 3.8.14 50
Understructure ....................................................................... 3.3.12 18
5.3.6 112
Universal load retainer ........................................................... 3.6.4.7 36
Ventilator ................................................................................ 3.4.9 21
4.3.14.3 106
Wall beam .............................................................................. 3.4.4 21
Wall panel .............................................................................. 3.4.2 21
Wall post ................................................................................ 3.4.3 21
Walls, roof, and floor .............................................................. 3.4 21
Web ........................................................................................ 3.8.7 49
Welded load retainer .............................................................. 3.6.4.8 36
138

MIL-STD-3037
PARAGRAPH PAGE
Welder’s hammer ................................................................... 3.8.11 49

5.2.3 108
139

MIL-STD-3037
CONCLUDING MATERIAL
Custodians: Preparing activity:

Army – AR Army – AR
Navy – SH (Project 8150-2016-002)
Air Force – 69
DLA – DH
Review activities: Agent:

Army – AV, GL, MI, MT, SM U.S. Army Defense Ammunition Center
Navy – AS, CG, MC, OS, SA
Air Force – 03, 06, 16, 11, 99
DLA – CT, DM, GS, IS, PS, SS
GSA - FAS
Other – FGI, MP
NOTE: The activities listed above were interested in this document as of the date of this
document. Since organizations and responsibilities can change, you should verify the
currency of the information above using the ASSIST Online database at
https://assist.dla.mil.
140


Mil-Std 3037

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Mil-Std 3037

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Mil-Std 3037

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

INCH-POUND

INSPECTION CRITERIA FOR INTERNATIONAL

AMSC N/A FSC 8150 and FSC 5411

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

3.3.11 Cross member .............................................................................18

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

3.5.16 Chain bolt.........................................................................................30

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

3.8.10 Pinhole .............................................................................................49

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

4.2.10.3 Army or Marine Corps shelter ...............................................................75

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

5. DETAILED REQUIREMENTS 108

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

1 Typical end opening steel container .....................................................5

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

44 ISO dimensions and tolerances ............................................................56

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

86 Straightening flange ............................................................................113

I Army tactical ISO shelters .....................................................................13

APPENDIX A INSPECTION CHECKLISTS 119

A.1 SCOPE 119

A-I End opening container inspection checklist .................................120

CONCLUDING MATERIAL ..................................................................................140

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

This standard is not to be used for performing container repairs.

1.2 Applicability. This standard applies to any International Organization for

1.4 Objective. Inspecting personnel will use this standard to cause:

a. Inspection standardization among DOD agencies for selection of intermodal

b. Preparation of inspection reports that are properly annotated to reflect container

c. Compliance with international treaties and conventions and United States

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

2.2 Government documents.

COMMERCIAL ITEM DESCRIPTIONS

A-A-52029 Container, Cargo, Side-Opening

A-A-52032 Container, Cargo, End-Opening

A-A-52033 Container, Cargo, Open-Top, Half Height

A-A-59272 Container, Cargo, End and Side Opening

MIL-PRF-32349 Container, Cargo, Triple Container (TRICON) (WITHOUT

MIL-PRF-32402 Container, Cargo, Triple Container 5 (TRICON 5)

MIL-PRF-32410 Container, Cargo, Double Container (BICON) Type 2

(Copies of these documents are available online at https://assist.dla.mil or from DLA

2.2.2 Other Government documents, drawings, and publications. The following

DEFENSE AMMUNITION CENTER

AC200000210 MILVAN Repair and Inspection Stand

DA-116 Aft end load restraint in end-opening ISO containers using

(Copies of these documents are available online at

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2017-03-22T17:53Z

drawing number (AC200000210) or from the Defense Ammunition Center, 1 C Tree

DTR 4500.9-R Part VI Management and Control of Intermodal Containers and

(Copies of this document are available online at www.transcom.mil.)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOT)

49 CFR Code of Federal Regulations - Transportation

2.3 Non-Government publications. The following documents form a part of this

INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION (IMO)