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.
Scope & Applicability
The ATP provides a technical framework for the international carriage of perishable foodstuffs and the special transport equipment used to maintain required temperature conditions.
Insulation & K-Coefficient
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.
Thermal Appliance Performance
Technical assessment may include refrigerating capacity, heating capability and the performance of thermal appliances used to maintain the required internal temperature.
Equipment Classification
Equipment classification is determined according to applicable technical characteristics, insulation performance and the capability of the thermal appliance to maintain specified operating conditions.
Testing, Certification & Documentation
ATP includes test methods and procedures used to demonstrate equipment performance. Certification is issued by the relevant Contracting Party or competent authority based on the applicable ATP framework and supporting test evidence.
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 the required temperature conditions. Its international application generally concerns carriage involving the territories of at least two Contracting States, 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 effectiveness of thermal appliances. Testing provides the technical evidence used in equipment assessment and certification processes.
5. Who issues ATP certification?
ATP certificates are issued within the framework of the relevant Contracting Party and its competent authority. ATP Compliance provides independent technical guidance and does not act as a competent authority or certification body.
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.