ISO/DTS 25287

ISO/TC 104/SC 4
ISO/CD TS 25287(en)
Secretariat:  AFNOR
Date: 2026-10-01
Smart freight container functionality and, identification and
requirements
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
© ISO 2026
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ii
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
Contents
Foreword . iii
Scope . iii
Normative references . iii
Terms and definitions . iii
Abbreviated terms . iii
General information . iii
Introduction . iii
General requirements . iii
Container types and compatibility with smart container accessories . iii
Levels and scopes of smartness . iii
Application levels of smartness . iii
Requirements for smart container registration . iii
Digital smart container - identification of smart container . iii
Digital container passport. iii
Stowage principles . iii
Structural compatibility . iii
General . iii
IoT hardware dimensions and mounting locations . iii
Maintenance and operations of smart container devices . iii
General . iii
Repair . iii
Minimal firmware features . iii
Update, upgrade IoT device software or firmware . iii
Pairing the IoT devices with other systems or system components . iii
Connectivity global . iii
Connectivity local . iii
Compatibility with frequency regulations . iii
Bibliography . iii
Foreword . v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Abbreviated terms . 3
5 General information . 4
5.1 Overview . 4
5.2 General requirements . 4
5.3 Container types and compatibility with smart freight container accessories . 4
5.4 Tiers and scopes of container smartness . 7
6 Application levels of smartness . 10
6.1 Requirements for smart freight container registration . 10
6.2 Digital smart freight container — Identification of smart freight container . 11
6.3 Digital container passport . 11
6.4 Stowage principles . 12
7 Structural compatibility . 12
iii
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
7.1 General. 12
7.2 IoT hardware dimensions and mounting locations . 12
8 Maintenance and operations of smart freight container devices . 15
8.1 General. 15
8.2 Repair . 15
8.3 Minimal firmware features . 15
8.4 Update, upgrade IoT device software or firmware . 15
8.5 Pairing the IoT devices with other systems or system components . 16
8.6 Global connectivity . 16
8.7 Local connectivity . 17
8.8 Compatibility with frequency regulations . 17
Bibliography . 19

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ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through
ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are described
in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the different types of
ISO documentsdocument should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the editorial rules
of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawnISO draws attention to the possibility that some of the elementsimplementation of this
document may beinvolve the subjectuse of (a) patent(s). ISO takes no position concerning the evidence,
validity or applicability of any claimed patent rights. in respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this
document, ISO had not received notice of (a) patent(s) which may be required to implement this document.
However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent the latest information, which may be
obtained from the patent database available at www.iso.org/patents. ISO shall not be held responsible for
identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of any patent rights identified during the development of the
document will be in the Introduction and/or on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see
www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions
related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the World Trade
Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 104, Freight containers, Subcommittee SC 4,
Identification and communication.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.
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ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
Smart freight container functionality and, identification and
requirements
1 Scope
This document definesspecifies the core functional characteristics and identification criteria for smart freight
containers equipped with IoT-based systems. It outlinesprovides a common terminology and specifies
technical requirements to support safe, efficient, and interoperable deployment across various modes of
transport.
The scope of thisThis document includes:
— Reviewingreviews existing IoT equipment used in container applications, with attention to its design,
integration, and performance in operational environments.;
— Evaluatingevaluates the compatibility of such equipment with intermodal logistics processes and
[1] [1]
container -handling practices . ;
— Specifyingspecifies functional and technical requirements for IoT systems in smart freight containers, with
particular focus on interoperability, safety and cybersecurity.;
— Establishingestablishes operational principles that reflect the unique attributes of smart freight
containers, ensuring safe use, performance reliability, and practical implementation across the supply
chain.
This document is intended to serve as a foundational reference for stakeholders involved in the design,
deployment, and management of smart freight container systems, including technology providers,
manufacturers, operators and owners, and regulatory bodies. It does not prescribe proprietary solutions or
device-specific architectures but rather provides a framework for consistent and scalable smart freight
container functionality.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 668:2020, Series 1 freight containers — Classification, dimensions and ratings
ISO 830:2024, Freight containers — Vocabulary
ISO 1496-1:2013, Series 1 freight containers — Specification and testing — Part 1: General cargo containers for
general purposes
ISO 6346:2022, Freight containers — Coding, identification and marking
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
3.1
Internet of Things
global IoT
infrastructure for the of interconnected entities, people, systems and information society, enabling advanced
resources together with services by interconnecting (which processes and reacts to information from the
physical world and virtual) things based on existing and evolving interoperable information and
communication technologies world
[2]
[SOURCE: ISO/IEC 20924:2024 , 3.2.8]
3.2
IoT device, noun
device of an IoT system that communicates with other devices and systems over the internet or other
communication systemsNote: It may have sensors or actuators incorporated or interact with other entities.
3.3
endpoint that interacts with the physical world through sensing or actuating
Note 1 to entry: An IoT device can be a sensor or an actuator.
[2]
[SOURCE: ISO/IEC 20924:2024 , 3.2.11]
3.3
container IoT device, noun
device attached to, or an integral part of, the container and powered by an embedded battery or external
source of powerNote: power
Note 1 to entry: A container IoT device can communicate with back-end systems (i.e. Cloud Computingcloud computing)
over the internet or other communication systems. A container IoT deviceIt may have the ability to communicate with
other devices, process data and relay messages between back-end and connected devices, in which case it becomes a
gateway. A container IoT device may also havebe fitted with sensors or an actuator incorporated on its ownactuators.
3.4
sensor, noun
measuring instrument, or part of a measuring instrument, or measuring chain, which is directly affected by
the measurand, and which generates a signal related to the value of the measurand
3.5
container environment, noun
space limited by one container entity including internal space, i.e. and external installations
Note 1 to entry: Internal space refers to the cargo cavity, its structure, and embedded technology and external.
Note 2 to entry: External installations, i.e. refer to vents, devices or sensors attached to the exterior, locks and seals.
3.6
dynamic data
Informationinformation that is continuously changing and updated in near real time to reflect the most
current state or contextNote: Unlike static data which remains constant over time, dynamic data is responsive
to changes, interactions, or external factors, providing a more accurate and relevant representation of the
subject it pertains to.context
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
3.7
ISO container
container manufactured in compliance with applicable ISO freight container standards at the time of its
manufacture.
Note 1 to entry: Unlike static data, which remain constant over time, dynamic data are responsive to changes,
interactions or external factors, providing a more accurate and relevant representation of their subject.
3.83.7
thermal container
freight container built with insulating walls, doors, floor and roof designed to slow the rate of heat
transmission between the inside and the outside of the container.
[3]
[SOURCE: ISO 830:2024 , 4.2.2, modified — Notes to entry have been deleted.]
3.93.8
insulated container
thermal container (3.7) having no devices for either cooling or heating, or both, either permanently installed
or attached, but can be fitted with either removable cooling or removable heating devicedevices, or both
[3]
[SOURCE: ISO 830:2024 , 4.2.2.1, modified — Note 1 to entry has been deleted.]
3.103.9
smart freight container
smart container, which is enabled by IoT
container fitted with IoT (3.1) technology to collect, register, store and communicate data during the course
of the whole or partspart of its lifecyclelife cycle
4 Abbreviated terms
ADR (European) Agreement (concerning the International Carriage of) Dangerous Goods
(by Road)
ATEX Explosive atmosphere
1)
BLE Bluetooth® Low Energy
IECEx International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards
Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmosphere
[4]
IMDG Code The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
ISM frequency band Industrial, Scientific, and Medical frequency band
ISM/SRD Short- Range Devices operating in Industrial, Scientific, and Medical band
ITU International Telecommunication Union
LTE Long-Term Evolution
LTE-M Long-Term Evolution for Machines
NB-IoT Narrowband Internet of Things
OCR Optical Character Recognition

1)
Bluetooth is the trade name of a product supplied by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG). This information is
given for the convenience of users of this document and does not constitute an endorsement by ISO of the product named.
Equivalent products may be used if they can be shown to lead to the same results.

ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
OTA Over-the-air
RFID Radio Frequency Identification
5 General information
5.1 Introduction
5.1 Overview
This document establishes a harmonisedharmonized framework for identifying and describing the
functionality of smart freight containers, with the aim of supporting safe, and efficient freight container
operations in a global context.worldwide. It ishas been developed to reflect the evolving nature of smart
technologies, while ensuring alignment with existing container standards and operational practices.
The approach taken is deliberately balanced, guided by the following key principles:
— Effectiveness through minimal regulation: This document avoids prescriptive technical detail where
possible, focusing instead on enabling interoperability and, compatibility and reliable performance
without constraining innovation. This principle allows for operational efficiency and adaptability across
diverse use cases and deploymentoperational environments.
— Support for sustainable innovation: By emphasisingemphasizing quality and safety, the specification offers
a foundation for the long-term development of smart freight container solutions that are alignedin
accordance with global logistics requirements. It encourages design flexibility while setting essential
boundaries for safe and responsible use.
— Technology provider neutrality: The framework is deliberately non-proprietary and technology-agnostic.
It does not favour specific vendors, platforms, or protocols, thereby ensuring inclusiveness and fair
competition across the ecosystem of smart freight container technology providers.
The focus of this document is on the operational environments for ISO compliantof containers. conforming to
[3]
ISO 830:2024 . Nevertheless, these specifications may also be used in other operatingoperational
environments.
5.2 General requirements
Type and technical requirements of the proposed document shall conform with the declared scope: smart
container functionality and identification. The descrisbed specifications set out in this document shall fit the
container operational environment and guarantee an open-ended approach towards the future technological
innovation.
5.3 Container types and compatibility with smart freight container accessories
5.3.1 General information
In this chapter This clause sets out the main types of containers that may be turned into smart freight
containers. Other container types are analysed as the subject of smart container transformation. However, this
iscan be considered, even if not a limiting description.mentioned here. Flat rack containers and open-top
containers that conform to ISO containers830:2024 are specialisedspecialized types of containers, thatwhich
for the purpose of this technical specificationdocument are defined as an article of transport equipment
designed for transporting oversized or oddly shaped cargo and can be also digitiseddigitized using IoT
equipment.
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
This document reviews an article of transport equipment that is of a permanent character and accordingly
strong enough to be suitable for repeated use; specially designed to facilitate the transport of goods, by one or
other modes of transport, without intermediate reloading:; designed to be secured and/or readily handled,
having corner fittings for these purposes, and approved in accordance with the International Convention for
[5]
Safe Containers (CSC),, 1972, as amended. .
5.3.1.15.3.2 General cargo container
As per ISO – 830: 2024ISO 830:2024 , a general cargo container is totally enclosed and weatherproof, having
a rigid roof, rigid side walls, rigid end walls and a floor, having at least one of its end walls equipped with doors
and intended to be suitable for the transport of cargo of the greatest possible variety. The simplest form of this
type of container is given the type code G0. These so-called “dry containers” are the most common type of
shipping containers, used for general cargo transport.
Dry containers are the most common type of shipping containers, used for general cargo transport. When ISO
certified, they come in 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft sizes, typically made of steel.
5.3.2 General cargo container
5.3.2.1 As per ISO – 830: 2024ISO 830:2024 ,General
[3]
As per ISO 830:2024 , a general cargo container is totally enclosed and weatherproof, having a rigid roof,
rigid side walls, rigid end walls and a floor, having at least one of its end walls equipped with doors and
intended to be suitable for the transport of cargo of the greatest possible variety. The simplest form of this
type of container is given the type code G0. These so-called “dryDry bulk containers” are the most common
[3]
type of shipping containers, used for general cargo transport. When complying with ISO 830:2024 , they
come in nominal lengths of 6 m (20 ft), 12 m (40 ft) and 13 m (45 ft), and are typically made of steel.
Dry containers are the most common type of shipping containers, used for general cargo transport. When ISO
certified, they come in 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft sizes, typically made of steel.
5.3.2.15.3.2.2 Composite container
A composite container is a container made of composite materials. A composite container can servefunction
as an insulated container, which isfalls under the category of a thermal container having no devices for
eitherwithout cooling or heating, or both, either permanently installed or attached, but can be fitted with
[3]
either a removable cooling or removable heating device, or bothISO 830:2024. capabilities (ISO 830:2024 ).
5.3.2.25.3.2.3 Collapsible and foldable containers
General -purpose cargo container5.3.1.1 5.3.2 designed and tested to be able to foldfolded either vertically or
horizontally.
[8]
In accordance with ISO requirements,ISO 1496-1 , collapsible containers are designed to reduce their
physical volume, typically height or width, through the mechanical configuration of structural components
such as sidewallsside walls, end walls, doors, and rootsroofs. The method of collapse varies depending on the
container’s engineering design and intended operational application. These units are purpose-built to
[7]
conform with ISO 1496-1:2013/Amd 2ISO 1496-1:2013/Amd 2 dimensional, and interoperability demands.
[8]
A bundle of collapsed containers shall also conform to ISO 1496-1:2013ISO 1496-1:2013 .
Foldable containers: Foldable containers fold on their base structure - (the side walls,) in a horizontal plane,
i.e.,. the hinged rear doors and hinged end panel are moved into the interior of the container, the. The hinged
headers and sills are released and secured against the sidewallsside walls, allowing the floor to fold upwards
and roof to fold downwarddownwards along designated hinge lines, which bring the walls towards each other
to a determined variable width and secured. A bundle of folded containers shall conform to ISO 1496-1:2013.
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
5.3.2.3 IoT Considerations & Principles
5.3.2.4 Regulatory requirements can apply to IoT considerations and principles
IoT devices and maycan provide:
— Basic Tracktrack-and-Tracetrace: a dynamic tracking and tracing function based on geolocation
identification within a given time stamp. The update should be periodic and dynamic.
— Cargo Condition Monitoringcondition monitoring: temperature, humidity, shock and other sensors and
others can appear asbe embedded sensors in ain gateway hardware or as separate hardware.
— Security (intrusion detection): unauthorisedunauthorized container access and similar security related
features Door Monitoring:for door monitoring (door open alertsdetection can appear asbe enabled
through embedded sensors in a gateway hardware or as separate hardware.).
— IoT -enabled Collapsible/Foldablecollapsible/foldable container: the IoT -enabled Smart Containersmart
container bundle definition of a “unit” of a foldable Smart Containersmart container may include 2, or 3,
or 4, or 5 foldable containers that when bundled in any combination conform to the ISO 1496-1 dimensions
of a single unfolded box, i.e., a 40ft High Cube Freight Container. a 40 ft high cube freight container.
— The IoT -enabled Smart Containersmart container bundle definition of “a unit” of a Collapsible Smart
Containercollapsible smart container may include 4 containers collapsed and joined together and being
transported under a “single unit” designation. Furthermore, shouldif a collapsible box is not be joined
together with any other boxes, then the IoT would need toshall be able to identify the collapsed box as a
container that no longer meets the ISO 1496 standard-1.
NOTE 1 The IMO International Maritime Digital Goods (IMDG) Code includes regulatory requirements, such as safe
type, which apply to the IoT solution design.
Note: NOTE 2 IoT performance evaluation is the subject of the quantified and authorisedauthorized verification based
on the real operational conditions, (e.g. use cases.).
5.3.3 Refrigerated (reefer) container definition and function
5.3.3.1 General
Reefer containers are designed for the transport of temperature -sensitive goods such as food,
pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. They maintain a specific temperature range using an integrated refrigeration
unit that operates on external power sources.
5.3.3.15.3.3.2 IoT considerations &and principles
5.3.3.2.1 Cargo Condition Monitoring: condition monitoring
IoT devices should monitor and preferably record reported values from the controller to assist in determining
and validating the carriage condition of sensitive goods within the container environment.
5.3.3.2.2 Power Supply Integration: supply integration
Since reefers rely on external power during operation, IoT devices normally use this power supply. The reefer
machine offers power supply within the controller cabinet for external devices to use while external power is
available. Reefer Controllerscontrollers supply power in different ranges,; therefore, IoT devices should
support running on external power, at a voltage level appropriate to the reefer controller on which it will be
installed (typically either 20V-32V 20 V to 32 V AC or 9V-15V 9 V to 15 V DC). It shall be ensured that the
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
reefer technology is not impaired by the power consumption of the IoT device. The IoT device should provide
a battery solution to have power supply when external power is not available, and the reefer is non-operated.
5.3.3.2.3 Remote Control & Alerts: control and alerts
IoT devicedevices should enable remote adjustments of settings and send either event- based or trigger-based
alerts for configurable temperature executions and controller -generated alarms, while ensuring that security
is maintained, (e.g. through different levels of permissions.).
The IMO IMDG Code includes regulatory requirements, such as safe type, apply to the IoT solution design.
5.3.4 Tank container
5.3.4.1 aGeneral
A freight container which includes two basic elements, the tank or tanks(s) and the frameworkISO 830:2024.
[3]
(see ISO 830:2024 ).
Tank containers are cylindrical, stainless-steel containers used for transporting liquid, gas, or chemical
substances. They are mounted within a standard ISO frame and designed for intermodal transport.
NOTE IECEx/ATEX, ADR and the IMDG Code include regulatory requirements, such as safe type, that can be applied
to the IoT solution design, appropriate for tank container installations.
5.3.4.15.3.4.2 IoT considerations &and principles
5.3.4.2.1 Level & Pressure Monitoring: and pressure monitoring
IoT sensors should provide real-time liquid level measurements and pressure data to prevent overfill or leaks.
5.3.4.2.2 Leak & Hazard Detection: and hazard detection
Integration with open-close sensors for liquid leak detection on valves is critical for identifying potential leaks
of hazardous materials.
5.3.4.2.3 Temperature Control: control
Some tank containers require thermal insulation; IoT should monitor temperature fluctuations affecting liquid
stability.
5.3.4.2.4 Shock & Tilt Monitoring: and tilt monitoring
IoT-enabled accelerometers can detect rough handling, excessive tilting, or impact during transport.
IECEx/ATEX, ADR and the IMDG Code include regulatory requirements, such as safe type, that apply to the IoT
solution design, approapriate for tank container installations.
5.4 LevelsTiers and scopes of container smartness

5.4.11.1.1.1 General
5.4.1 General
This sectionclause aims to define different levels tiers and scopes of “container smartness”, i.e.describing
different levels of technological capabilities of the IoT-enabled freight container, from minimal level till
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
advanced scope. (as set out in Table 1). Technology applications are conditioned through the container
operations, its type and the application use case. Tiers 1 and 2 define the smart freight container, while tier 0
is intended to help understand the context and definition of the smart freight container, but does not define
any smart functionalities.
LevelTable 1 — Smart freight container functional matrix — Tiers and scopes
Scope 2: Scope 3:
Scope 0: Scope 1:
Tier / Scope Security/Safety Cargo Condition
Static Data Movement Data
Sensor Data Monitoring
Tier 0 Passive
Supported Optional Optional Optional
Identification
Tier 1 Conditioned Partially Supported Partially Supported
Supported Not Supported
Connectivity (in bounded zones) (if equipped)
Tier 2 Autonomous
Supported Fully Supported Fully Supported Fully Supported
Connectivity
5.4.2 Tiers of container smartness

5.4.2.1 Tier 0 passive read-only
Tier 0 passive read-onlyTier 0 refers to the passive, read-only level of container smartness, where the
container does not autonomously transmit data. Smartness resides in external infrastructure, such as OCR
scanners and e-seal readers, which interpret static container identifiers. Refrigerated containers without IoT
devices also fall into this tier; while internal data may be logged, it shall be manually extracted. This tier is
machine-readable but not connected, representing minimal digital integration reliant on smart infrastructure.
Tier 0 represents the foundational level of container smartness and is characterisedcharacterized by passive,
non-transmitting identification technologies that enable the container to be machine-readable without
actively emitting data. At this level, the intelligence resides primarily in the infrastructure interacting with the
container rather than within the container itself. The container does not autonomously generate or transmit
data; instead, external systems such as optical character recognition (OCR) scanners, e-seal readers, and
craneCrane-mounted side scanners are required to capture and interpret its identifying features.This Tier 0
typically includes standard freight containers equipped only with static identifiers, such as ISO 6346:2022ISO
[9]
6346:2022 container markings, RFID tags, or passive e-seals. A refrigerated container (reefer) without an
additional IoT device is also classified within this tier.
In some cases, Tier 0 containers may incorporate internal data logging functionality, for example, a built-in
temperature controller with local memory that records environmental conditions. However, such data isare
stored internally and can only be accessed manually, typically through a local download process, and is not
broadcast or communicated in real time. Tier 0 is therefore best defined as machine-readable but not machine-
communicative. While it enables digital interaction through external systems, the container itself remains
non-smart in terms of autonomy, sensing, or connectivity. The tier serves as the baseline against which higher
levels of smartness, – incorporating active sensors, wireless communication, and autonomous response
capabilities, – are distinguished.
5.4.2.2 Tier 1 conditioned connectivity
Tier 1 is a level of container smartness in which static and periodically dynamic data transmission is limited
to specific zones (e.g. ports) and depends on a communication model, where the container transmits data only
through an external gateway or dedicated infrastructure. The connectivity within this tier is local, and not
global.
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
Tier 1 describes a level of container smartness where data transmission is conditional and limited to specific
operational zones or bounded environments, such as ports, terminals, or depots. At this tier, the container is
capable of transmitting data, but only when connected to or within range of an external ad hoc communication
network, often configured on a dependency principle. In this arrangement, the container (slave) relies on a
fixed or mobile gateway (master) to initiate, manage, or relay data communication.
Communication in Tier 1 is typically intermittent and bound by spatial or infrastructural constraints. For
example, data may be transmitted when the container passes through a gate equipped with a reader, docks at
a smart terminal, or connects to a local ad hoc network temporarily. Outside these predefined zones, the
container remains offline, with no autonomous capability to maintain connectivity.
This tier marks the initial shift from passive to active smartness, where the container begins to participate in
digital communication, albeit in a dependent and restricted manner. It reflects limited autonomy, bounded
situational awareness, and constrained integration within the broader digital logistics ecosystem.
5.4.2.3 Tier 2 autonomous connectivity
Tier 2 is a level of container smartness where dynamic and static data transmission isare performed
independently of dedicated/ad hoc infrastructure or other containers, using built-in communication
technologies, over general-purpose networks, and subject only to network coverage quality.
Tier 2 represents an advanced level of container smartness characterisedcharacterized by autonomous data
transmission capabilities. At this Tiertier, the container is equipped with an integrated communication
module, typically using cellular, satellite, or low-power wide-area networks (cellular narrowband IoT
technology),) that enables it to send data over general-purpose networks, independently of dedicated
infrastructure or peer devices.
Unlike Tier 1, where data transmission depends on a master-slave relationship with nearby infrastructure or
network gateways, Tier 2 containers possess embedded communication capabilities that allow them to
connect directly with remote servers or cloud platforms. This independence enables continuous or periodic
updates of key parameters such as location, temperature, humidity, shock, door events, or battery status,
subject only to the availability and quality of network coverage.
While Tier 2 containers are designed to operate independently, their performance can still be influenced by
environmental factors such as geographic coverage, interference, or signal obstruction (e.g. in deep-sea
shipping or remote inland routes). However, such dependencies do not alter the container’s inherent ability
to initiate and manage data communication on its own.
This level of smartness provides significant operational advantages, including end-to-end visibility, condition
monitoring across transport modes, and reduced reliance on infrastructure-controlled zones. Tier 2 is the
foundational level for real-time smart freight container services in global logistics, supporting proactive
decision-making and improved supply chain resilience.
5.4.3 Scopes of container smartness
5.4.3.1 General
Scopes of container smartness are capabilities, which a smart freight container can have together or
separately, while scope 0 identifies the basic level of data transmission. The functional depth and type of data
transmitted by a smart freight container and/or its embedded systems defines the scopesscope of container
smartness. Each scope represents a progression in the nature and granularity of available information, moving
from static identification to dynamic contextual awareness of both container and cargo. These scopes are
defined independently from the communication tier but can be combined for classification purposes.
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
5.4.3.15.4.3.2 Scope 0 - static data transmission
Scope 0 relates to the transmission of static identification data related to container, packaging, or cargo. At
Scope 0, the smart system is capable of transmitting static data related to the container, pallet, package, or
cargo. This includes information such as container ID, seal number, packaging identifier, cargo description, or
handling instructions. No dynamic status or movement data isare included.
5.4.3.25.4.3.3 Scope 1 - movement data transmission
Scope 1 relates to the transmission of container -movement -related dynamic data (location and time stamp).
Scope 1 introduces the transmission of dynamic movement data, specifically the container’s location
accompanied by a timestamp. This enables basic track-and-trace functionality, offering visibility ofon the
container’s geospatial progression.
5.4.3.35.4.3.4 Scope 2 - movement and container level sensor data transmission
Scope 2 relates to the transmission of container -movement -related dynamic data in combination with
security (e.g. door open/close) and safety sensor data dynamic data (container level sensor only). The IoT
equipment supports the self-health review and reporting. Scope 2 extends Scope 1 by adding security (i.e. door
open/close sensor) and safety sensor data at the container level. This includes dynamic monitoring of
parameters such as door openings, shocks, tilt, or potential fire detection. All sensors in this scope are fixed to
the container structure and do not monitor cargo condition.
5.4.3.45.4.3.5 Scope 3 – container dynamic data transmission in combination with cargo condition
monitoring
Scope 3 relates to the transmission of container -movement -related dynamic data in combination with cargo
condition monitoring dynamic data (can also include the full Scope 2 with security/safety sensor data dynamic
data (container level sensor only) and cargo condition monitoring). The IoT equipment supports the self-
health review and reporting.
Contextualisation of data, (e.g. gate in/out, geofence in/out,), outside of the temperature threshold in a
particular area is done on the software level.
5.4.3.5 Smart container functional matrix: tiers and scopes
Table 1
Scope 2: Scope 3:
Scope 0: Static Scope 1:
Tier / Scope
Security/Safety Cargo Condition
Data Movement Data
Sensor Data Monitoring
Tier 0 Passive
Supported Optional Optional Optional
Identification
Tier 1 Conditioned Partially Supported Partially Supported
Supported Not Supported
Connectivity (in bounded zones) (if equipped)
Tier 2 Autonomous
Supported Fully Supported Fully Supported Fully Supported
Connectivity
6 Application levels of smartness
6.1 Requirements for smart freight container registration
Accurate identification of smart freight containers is criticalrequired for ensuring appropriate operational
handling, safety, and data access across the logistics chain. Knowledge of the specific type and level of
ISO/CD TSDTS 25287:2026(en)
technology integrated into a container, s
...