ISO 780, “Packaging — Pictorial marking for handling of goods,” has been updated. The new 5th Edition dated 12/1/2015 is now available from Document Center Inc. You can get it in paper format or for pdf download. This is a technical revision and it cancels and replaces the previous 4th Edition from 1997.
ISO 780 provides you with a set of 17 symbols that you’ll use for marking packages with handling instructions used during transit. It’s applicable for any kind of goods with the exception of dangerous or hazardous material. Since packages are often transported internationally, using graphical symbols from ISO 780 provides you with a way to communicate how to handle your shipments with folks who don’t speak your language or are even illiterate.
The use of these 17 symbols has been stable for a long time, so why a new edition now? Mostly this is a procedural change. The symbols have been modified to meet IEC 80416-1 requirements and have been submitted to ISO for registration and inclusion in the ISO 7000. Some of the changes you’ll see that reflect these new requirements are:
- The titles for various markings have been modified to reflect their use as graphical symbols for distribution packaging (including storage as well as transit.)
- The order in which the symbols are presented has been changed. The new format is large packages to middle and small-sized ones. There is also sorting by how the packages are handled as well as whether or not they’ll be used for transit and storage or just transit only.
- The layout of the actual tables that contain the symbols and affiliated information has been changed. Specific references to the new ISO 7000 numbers are included in the table.
You’ll want to get a copy of this new revision if you use the ISO 780. And you’ll want to use an authorized distributor like Document Center Inc. to make sure your copies are legal. So order online at our webstore, www.document-center.com. Here’s the link to go directly to the order page for the new ISO 780.
Of course, sometimes you want to work with a real person or you have additional questions. Just get in touch with our staff by phone at 650-591-7600 or by email at info@document-center.com. We’ve been selling standards since 1982 and have the depth of knowledge it takes to understand these critical compliance documents. Make our staff at Document Center your Standards Experts!
