In this new post we will talk about packaging symbology, something very important considering that most of the damage to goods occurs during transportation, especially when loading or unloading.

These universal pictograms, properly placed on the boxes, serve as guidance for the perfect handling of the cargo, since they are not accompanied by written words and are understandable anywhere in the world. In addition, they are standardized according to ISO 780:1997.

This is a graphic of the standardized ISO symbols:

ISO Symbols standardized for packaging

Marking/rotation instructions:

It is always best to paint the symbols on the packaging using a stencil, although some prefer to use labels. It is not mandatory to frame them.

As far as color is concerned, the background must be smoothed or prepared for degreasing in the case of a metallic background before marking / labeling.

Metallic and/or synthetic marking / labeling plates are acceptable as long as they are lightfast, weather resistant and not sensitive to seawater and ultraviolet radiation.

Normally, black color is used for these symbols but in case the color of the packaging does not allow the correct identification of the pictograms, a lighter background, normally white, should be placed under the symbols.

The paint should be washable and resistant to the above mentioned external factors.

Also, the marking / labeling should be clearly and sharply executed, open and parallel to the background edge as well as legible during the intended storage period. it is recommended that the size of the symbols should not exceed 10 x 15 x 20 centimeters.

These are some of the most commonly used symbols:

Most popular ISO symbols

We must also know, according to the ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road), other types of markings indicated for the transport of dangerous goods, which are organized according to the type of cargo to be transported.

ADR Symbols. Resource: www.conceptdraw.com

On our website, you can find packaging control elements.