intermodal loading units

In view of these obstacles, my report lays particular emphasis on the need to settle the issue of the standardisation of intermodal loading units and to facilitate the integration of short sea shipping into the supply chain.

Bearing this in mind, the Commission has pointed out the difficulties encountered by users of current intermodal loading units (ILUs) – in other words, containers or boxes usually used in transport – which range from the diversity of handling and securing devices to questions of security and methods of monitoring.

A standard carriage document is also required for shipment by sea, rail, lorry and aircraft, a European maritime transport space without barriers, a not only European, but also worldwide standard for intermodal loading units and, in particular, a better connection between maritime and river ports and the hinterland's road and rail network.