The basis of these regulations is to guarantee that the container can withstand extreme environments endured during transport as well as possess the structural integrity needed to be lifted by cranes or other heavy equipment.

ISO containers, if being used for freight transport (as apposed to static storage etc) will have a ‘CSC’ certificate and metal plate on the container. the idea of this is like an MOT / service for a vehicle and makes sure that the container is suitable for transport of freight. I believe that the CSC inspection needs to be done every 30 months (2.5 Years). If using a shipping line / freight agent, they will make sure that all of their containers meet these specifications.