UNDERSTANDING UNECE ATP
UNECE ATP Agreement
Technical guidance on the Agreement on the International Carriage of Perishable Foodstuffs and on the Special Equipment to be Used for such Carriage (ATP), including applicability, equipment classification, thermal performance requirements, testing and compliance documentation.
Thermal insulation performance is assessed using the overall coefficient of heat transfer (K-coefficient) together with defined test conditions and measurement procedures.
The ATP establishes technical requirements for special equipment used in the international carriage of perishable foodstuffs, including insulation performance, thermal appliances, equipment classification, testing and compliance documentation.
Understanding the ATP Technical Framework
ATP TECHNICAL FRAMEWORK
Special Equipment Categories
The ATP framework covers insulated, refrigerated, mechanically refrigerated, heated, and mechanically refrigerated and heated equipment.
ATP Compliance FAQ
Common technical questions on UNECE ATP applicability, equipment classification, testing and compliance documentation.
1. What is the scope of the UNECE ATP Agreement?
ATP establishes technical requirements for the international carriage of specified perishable foodstuffs and for the special equipment used to maintain required temperature conditions. It generally applies to transport operations carried out on the territories of at least two Contracting Parties, subject to the provisions of the Agreement.
2. What types of equipment are covered by ATP?
ATP defines requirements for insulated, refrigerated, mechanically refrigerated, heated, and mechanically refrigerated and heated equipment used for the carriage of perishable foodstuffs.
3. How is ATP equipment classified?
Classification depends on the applicable equipment category and technical performance, including insulation characteristics, K-coefficient limits and, where relevant, the capability of the thermal appliance to achieve or maintain specified temperature conditions.
4. What is the role of technical testing?
ATP defines methods and procedures for measuring and checking insulation performance, refrigerating capacity and the performance of thermal appliances. Testing provides the technical evidence used to assess equipment against the applicable ATP requirements and supports the certification process.
6. What documentation may be needed for ATP compliance?
Depending on the equipment and applicable procedure, supporting information may include equipment identification, technical specifications, test reports, measurement data, calculations and other documentation required by the relevant competent authority.