| Written by Constance Stickler

When a container full of delicious, crisp fruits leaves for its trip halfway around the world, countless systems must work together flawlessly. But without shared communication rules, those systems would speak in different languages — and the cargo’s safety would be left to chance.
ISO 10368 is the international standard that ensures refrigerated containers can be monitored anywhere in the world, no matter who built them or where they travel. This article takes you inside that standard: what it is, why it matters, and how it shapes the future of the cold chain.
Iso 10368 Reefer Container Operations

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The Importance of ISO Standards in Container Logistics

Containers are transported across oceans, rails, highways, and through ports and depots. This is only possible through standardisation. Without a common technical framework, every link in the chain would operate with incompatible systems, leading to inefficiencies, higher costs, and safety risks. The standards of the ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) form the essential link for interoperability across borders, providers and modes of transport.

A common language is especially essential when dealing with refrigerated containers, where even small gaps can lead to spoilage, claims for damages, or safety risks. Parameters such as a container's temperature and humidity must be recorded in real-time, regardless of whether the container is in a port terminal, being transported on a train, or crossing an ocean. But how can these containers communicate reliably with remote monitoring systems, logistics platforms, or maintenance personnel?

The answer is: standard ISO 10368, aka "Freight thermal containers — Remote condition monitoring".


 

What Is ISO 10368?

ISO 10368 (1) is an international standard that defines the requirements for the electrical connections and data communication interfaces of refrigerated containers. Specifically, it specifies how monitoring and control information is exchanged between a refrigerated unit and an external device—such as a remote monitoring modem, gateway, or central data platform. It standardises not only the physical connections but also the signals and communication protocols for accessing refrigerated container data.

The standard was developed to meet the growing demand for reliable monitoring systems. Shipping companies, terminals, and technology providers needed a way to monitor refrigerated containers—regardless of manufacturer and location. ISO 10368 provides this unified foundation for hardware and communication.

First published in 2006, the standard 2006 has been continuously developed since then to respond to technological changes, such as updates to connector types. Recent revisions cover the increasing use of IoT-based systems, wireless communications, and intelligent container infrastructure.


The Ultimate Reefer KPI Guide

What Are the Core Functions of Communication for Refrigerated Containers?

The objective of ISO 10368 is that every refrigerated container unit, regardless of brand and operating environment, must be able to transmit data about its internal conditions – including temperature, humidity, alarms and equipment status – to a remote operator or central platform.

Electrical Connectors and Data Communication

The standard defines the physical and electrical interface for connecting an external monitoring device to a refrigeration unit. This includes specifications for connectors, cabling configurations, signal types, and pin assignments. These connectors are positioned on the refrigerated container so that a technician or automated system can connect a remote monitoring module (RMM) without opening the container.

There is a defined structure for data exchange so that control systems can interpret states, acknowledge alarms and even adjust settings (depending on system permissions).

Interface with Monitoring Devices (RMM, GSM/GPRS, Satellite)

A variety of external communication systems must be supported. These include, for example:

  • Remote Monitoring Modules (RMMs): Devices physically attached to the reefer, collecting and transmitting data.
  • GSM/GPRS Modems: Allowing data to be sent over mobile networks.
  • Satellite Links: Providing global reach, especially during ocean transit.

 

Wired vs Wireless Transmission

Originally focused primarily on wired connections, the standard has evolved in practice and now also supports hybrid systems. The former are popular primarily due to their reliability and speed, but wireless transmission (for example, via cellular networks) is becoming increasingly important.

Although ISO 10368 does not directly define wireless protocols, it supports the data layer required for interfacing with wireless devices. This dual compatibility ensures that the standard remains relevant in a world where digitalisation and mobility go hand in hand.

Minimum Functionality of the Remote Communication Devices (RCD)

This minimal range of functions includes (2):

Mandatory queries:

  • Identification number of the container or clip-on unit
  • Porthole container number (for porthole containers cooled with a clip-on unit)
  • Date and time of porthole container number change
  • Current exhaust air temperature
  • Current supply air temperature
  • Manufacturer/Type

Important optional queries (not exhaustive):

  • Operating mode (Full Cool, Partial or lower capacity cool, Modulated Cool, Fans only, Defrost, Heat)
  • Target temperature
  • Alarms (status query)
  • Pending alarms (in order of occurrence)
  • Product temperatures
  • Data logger interval
  • Current consumption
  • Container destination
  • Port of discharge
  • Origin
  • Self-test (PTI) results

Commands for control and programming (if supported by the refrigeration unit controller):

  • Change in target temperature
  • Start self-test (PTI)
  • Changing the identification number
  • Changing the data logger interval
  • Setting the data logger date and time
  • Changing the operating mode
  • Downloading data logger information
  • Changing the porthole container number
  • Changing the destination

 

How Does ISO 10368 Work in Practice?

If we look at a typical container terminal, we'll see a multitude of different reefer models from various shipping companies. Instead of manually checking each one over and over again, the terminal's reefer monitoring system is connected to the container's ISO 10368 port.

Regardless of whether the containers are from Carrier, Thermo King, Daikin, or Star Cool, compliant monitoring platforms can communicate with all containers. This can be done in both directions: not only is data delivered to the system, but setpoints can also be remotely adjusted and alarms confirmed.

ISO_10368_2


 

What Benefits Does ISO 10368 Offer for the Supply Chain?

The impact of ISO 10368 goes far beyond technical consistency – it offers tangible operational added value along the entire cold chain. Through automated remote access to refrigerated container data, the standard makes a decisive contribution to improving transparency, safety, and efficiency.

Remote Monitoring and Reduced Manual Checks

The ISO 10368-compliant monitoring systems allow reefers to be connected simply via plug & play. This allows data to be transferred automatically, anomalies to be reported, and alarms to be triggered. Error-prone manual checks are eliminated. This reduces labour costs and improves responsiveness, especially during peak container handling periods.

Energy and Cost Efficiency

The operation of reefer containers accounts for a high percentage of the electricity consumed at the terminal. Even small deviations from target values can lead to energy waste. ISO 10368 enables optimised reefer container management, for example, by confirming when containers can be safely shut down or switched to energy-saving mode based on real-time operational data.

Improved Reefer Reliability and Uptime

Feeding reefers' operating data into predictive maintenance systems allows operators to identify patterns and intervene before failures occur—for example, by replacing a faulty fan motor or correcting compressor irregularities.

Safety and Cargo Compliance

For temperature-sensitive goods such as pharmaceuticals, meat, or fresh produce, documentation and traceability are essential. ISO 10368 enables accurate data capture and facilitates digital documentation of compliance—both for internal audits and to fulfil legal or contractual obligations.

 

Stakeholders Impacted by ISO 10368

From container manufacturers to global freight forwarders, numerous players benefit from the standard or rely on it in their daily operations.

Reefer Manufacturers

Manufacturers such as Carrier, Thermo King, Daikin, and Star Cool are integrating ISO 10368 compliance into their products to ensure their refrigerated containers are immediately compatible with third-party terminal systems and monitoring devices. This is especially important since their customers increasingly expect compliance with the standards.

Port Terminals and Operators

Terminal operators benefit enormously from ISO 10368, as it enables automated reefer container monitoring and alarm tracking, significantly reducing the need for physical inspections. As terminals become increasingly digital and data-driven, standardised connectivity to reefer containers is critical for scalability and operational control.

Shipping Lines and Intermodal Transport Providers

For shipping companies, ISO 10368 offers a way to standardise the monitoring of global operations, regardless of whether the containers are on a ship, in port, or en route. This ensures consistent quality assurance and supports service-level agreements (SLAs) with cargo owners. Intermodal providers—particularly rail operators—also rely on ISO 10368-compliant systems to integrate reefer container data into their tracking and logistics platforms.

Technology Providers and IoT Integrators

Companies offering remote monitoring modules, IoT gateways, and software platforms use ISO 10368 as the foundation for their integration strategies. Compliance ensures that their hardware and software can communicate with a variety of refrigerated container brands and models, enabling broader market access.


 

 

Challenges and Limitations

While ISO 10368 offers many advantages, its implementation is not without its challenges. Numerous practical challenges—from infrastructure gaps to compatibility gaps—must be overcome by all involved in order to fully exploit the advantages of the standard.

Legacy Infrastructure and Mixed Fleets

One of the biggest problems is older reefers that do not, or only partially, support the standard. In fleets where some containers are compliant and others are not, it becomes difficult to fully automate monitoring procedures. Retrofitting older reefers is partially possible (for example, by adding an ISO 10368-compliant connector to the existing control panel), but it can be costly and time-consuming.

Compatibility and Firmware Variations

Even if compliance is achieved, differences in firmware or manufacturer-specific implementations can lead to subtle compatibility issues. These can include monitoring systems failing to detect certain data points or interpreting alarm codes differently across brands. In reality, it often requires a degree of fine-tuning.

Data Integration and Interpretation

Integrating the data into more comprehensive IT systems such as terminal operating systems (TOS), fleet management platforms, or cloud-based dashboards is also challenging. While the standard defines data transmission, it does not address its interpretation, prioritisation, or visualisation. Therefore, custom middleware or APIs may be necessary to bridge the gap between raw reefer data and actionable insights.

 

Future Outlook: Standardisation and Smart Container Tech

As digitalisation and automation continue to advance, the importance of standardisation will only increase: refrigerated containers will become more intelligent, more autonomous, and increasingly integrated into real-time supply chain networks.

Today, data is no longer only transmitted to local monitoring dashboards, but also to cloud-based platforms that aggregate information from vessels, terminals, and inland networks. These platforms provide predictive analytics and automated workflow triggers, and offer integration with customer portals—all based on a continuous stream of standardised reefer container data (see also: reefer container temperature monitoring system).

As in almost all industries, AI is increasingly being integrated - with the help of advanced analytics, component failures are being predicted, defrost cycles are being optimised, and energy consumption is being reduced. ISO 10368 enables this ecosystem by providing a reliable data foundation for the effective functioning of AI and machine learning models.

5G is becoming available in a growing number of regions, allowing data to be accessed even during transport. ISO 10368 provides the necessary compatibility for devices mounted on trucks, trains, or barges to interact with reefers.

A possible next step to remain relevant could be to further develop ISO 10368 to better support pure wireless communication, cybersecurity features, or the integration of digital IDs at the container level.

 

FAQ ISO 10368

Where Does ISO 10368 Fit Within the Broader Landscape of ISO Standards for Shipping Containers?

ISO 10368 does not exist in a vacuum. The standard is part of a series of international standards that regulate the design, tracking, and security of containers.

ISO 9897 (CEDEX)

ISO 9897, commonly known as CEDEX (Container Equipment Data Exchange), provides the framework for the digital exchange of equipment status information. It defines codes for container events, damage, repairs, and inspections – primarily for use between shipping companies, depots, and leasing companies. While ISO 10369 focuses on real-time electronic communication, CEDEX is more concerned with event-based reporting and standardised messaging in back-office systems.

ISO 17712 (Safety of container seals)

This standard regulates the physical security of containers, particularly the design and classification of mechanical seals. These seals are essential for detecting tampering and are therefore critical for customs compliance.

IEC 60945 (Marine Electronic Equipment)

In maritime environments, equipment must meet the safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements specified in IEC 60945. This standard applies, for example, to devices such as on-board monitoring equipment or satellite modems connected to refrigerated containers via ISO 10368-compliant interfaces. The two standards complement each other: ISO 10368 specifies the refrigerated container's communication, while IEC 60945 ensures the safety and reliability of the connected equipment at sea.


 

Takeaway

In the maritime transport industry, known for its speed, scale, and complexity, ISO 10368 offers something crucial: simplicity through standardisation.

What began as a technical specification for electrical connectors and signals has evolved into an enabler of change. Terminals can now monitor thousands of reefer containers from a central screen.
Technology providers can develop hardware and software that works across fleets without proprietary restrictions. This allows logistics service providers to reduce the risk of spoilage while optimising energy consumption.

All of this is possible because ISO 10368 ensures that reefer containers speak the same language for optimised reefer management.

 

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Delve deeper into one of our core topics:  Reefer Monitoring

 

Glossary

The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental body that develops and publishes international standards to ensure the quality, safety, and efficiency of products, services, and systems. Established in 1947, ISO brings together national standards bodies from 167 countries and has developed more than 25,000 standards covering a diverse range of fields, from manufacturing to technology and healthcare. These standards facilitate global trade and innovation by providing consistent benchmarks for businesses and consumers. (3)

A Service Level Agreement (SLA) is a formal contract between a service provider and a customer that specifies the expected performance standards, such as availability, response times, and reliability for defined services. It documents service metrics, responsibilities, and consequences for failing to meet agreed targets, such as penalties or service credits. SLAs are critical for managing expectations, fostering accountability, and enabling remedies if issues arise. These agreements can exist both between external vendors and clients, and internally between departments. SLAs are widely utilised in IT, telecommunications, logistics, and outsourced service arrangements. (4)

References:

(1) https://www.iso.org/standard/36595.html 

(2) https://www.containerhandbuch.de/chb_e/wild/index.html?/chb_e/wild/wild_07_02_09_03_03.html 

(3) Craig Murphy and JoAnne Yates (2009): "The International Organization for Standardization (ISO): Global Governance Through Voluntary Consensus". Routledge.

(4) McKinnon, R.C. (2023): Measuring Safety Management Performance. CRC Press.


Note: This article was partly created with the assistance of artificial intelligence to support drafting.




conny

Author

Conny Stickler, Marketing Manager Logistics

Constance Stickler holds a master's degree in political science, German language and history. She spent most of her professional career as a project and marketing manager in different industries. Her passion is usability, and she's captivated by the potential of today's digital tools. They seem to unlock endless possibilities, each one more intriguing than the last. Constance writes about automation, sustainability and safety in maritime logistics.

Find here a selection of her articles

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