Definition: Swap body

Category: United Nations terminology

A freight carrying unit optimised to road vehicle dimensions and fitted with handling devices for transfer between modes, usually road/rail.
Originally, such units were not capable of being stacked when full or top-lifted. But many units can now be stacked and top-lifted and the main feature distinguishing them from
containers is that they are optimised to vehicle dimensions. Such units would need a UIC approval to be used on rail. Some swap bodies are equipped with folding legs on which the unit stands when not on the vehicle.