Overview
ISO/TS 19709-2:2016 - Transport packaging - Small load container systems - Part 2: Column Stackable System (CSS) - specifies the main characteristics and testing for durable, reusable, parallelepipedic small load containers (SLCs) and accessories used mainly in the automotive industry. The technical specification defines CSS functional features, dimensional requirements, allowable loads (maximum 20 kg), and accessory interfaces (lids and pallet covers) to enable secure column stacking, mechanical and automatic handling, and pooling.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and purpose
- Reusable SLCs designed for bulk or precisely located component loads up to 20 kg for automotive supply chains.
- Geometry and dimensions
- Defined nominal footprint sizes (600×400, 400×300, 300×200 mm) with specified inner/outer dimensions and tolerances.
- Approved overall heights: 147.5 mm or 280 mm (with specific height rules for 300×200 base module).
- Flange height of 15 mm and maximum stacking clearance in length/width ≤ 4.8 mm to ensure reliable location when stacked.
- Mass, volume and loads
- Tare masses, usable volumes and nominal stacking loads specified for each SLC type to support unit-load planning and automated handling.
- Functional features for handling and security
- Main and auxiliary handles, vertical ribs for lifting grippers, centering holes for automatic handling, drainage and security-sealing holes, and label holders.
- Accessories
- Interchangeable lids (D65, D45, D35) with near-neutral height and pallet covers (A1208, A1210) to protect loads and create flat stacking surfaces.
- Materials, marking and testing
- Material, marking and test methods reference ISO/TS 19709-1: Common requirements and test methods (normative).
Applications and users
- Intended for automotive manufacturers and suppliers, logistics and packaging engineers, material handling system designers, pooling and returnable packaging operators, and quality/conformity assessors.
- Practical applications:
- Standardized reusable containers for assembly-line feeding, intra-plant transport, automated storage/retrieval, and pooled logistics.
- Design and procurement of CSS-compliant SLCs and accessories to ensure interoperability across suppliers and automated equipment.
- Conformance testing and specification checks during supplier qualification and packaging validation.
Related standards
- ISO/TS 19709-1 - Part 1: Common requirements and test methods (normative reference).
- ISO/TS 19709-3 - Part 3: Bond Stackable System (BSS).
- Developed under ISO/TC 122 (Packaging).
Keywords: ISO/TS 19709-2:2016, Column Stackable System, CSS, transport packaging, small load container systems, automotive packaging, reusable containers, SLC dimensions, pallet cover, lids, handling standards.
Open preview (PDF)Transport packaging — Small load container systems — Part 2: Column Stackable System (CSS)
