GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026
ISO 3166
Unambiguous country identification in customs declarations, shipping documents, and logistics platforms is what ISO 3166 delivers – a globally applied standard published by the International Organization for Standardization.
Quick Answer
Last updated: Published:
Source: https://www.iso.org/iso-3166-country-codes.html
Category
Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system
Reading time
1 min
Words
116
Mentioned in
–
Definition & Explanation
Unambiguous country identification in customs declarations, shipping documents, and logistics platforms is what ISO 3166 delivers – a globally applied standard published by the International Organization for Standardization. It has three parts: ISO 3166-1 assigns two-letter alpha-2 codes (e.g., US, GB, DE) and numeric codes to sovereign states; ISO 3166-2 covers administrative subdivisions such as states and provinces; ISO 3166-3 preserves codes for countries that no longer exist. In daily freight and customs work, ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 codes appear in virtually every document – CMR consignment notes, air waybills, customs entries, and logistics software all require machine-readable country identifiers. These codes are distinct from vehicle nationality plates and from SWIFT/BIC country identifiers, which follow separate conventions.
Next steps
Matching tools and partners
Related Terms
⚡ Current 2026
Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system
Passar replaces E-dec and NCTS. Passar 1.0 (export) is live, Passar 2.0 (import) starts from Q2 2026. Roadmap, ePortal registration, deadlines and FAQ — all on one page.
Passar 1.0Passar 2.0 → Q2 2026Passar 3.0 → Q2 2027
Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox
Free · No password · Never a paywall. Weekly top news and facts from logistics.
Community Questions & Answers
Share your knowledge, ask follow-up questions, or add practical insights to this page. Every contribution is moderated before publication.
No community answers yet. Be the first.