Who owns SOFU containers
In the Navo24 Carrier Directory, SOFU belongs to CMA CGM, whose SCAC is CMDU. The line's profile, fleet and schedules are on its carrier page.
CMA CGM uses SOFU on its own equipment. Its other prefixes include AMCU, ANLU, CGHU, CGMU, CGTU, CILU, CMAU, CMDU, CMNU and CNCU.
A prefix tells you who owns the box, not always who books it. CMA CGM also runs leased containers under lessor prefixes, and other lines can carry SOFU boxes on slot or swap deals.
How to read an SOFU container number
Every container number has eleven characters under ISO 6346. The first three letters (SOF) are the owner code registered with the BIC in Paris. The fourth letter is the equipment category: U, freight containers: the dry, reefer, open top, flat rack and tank boxes that travel on ships, trains and trucks.
Then come six serial digits and one check digit. In SOFU1234565, a format example, 123456 is the serial and 5 is the check digit. It is calculated from the first ten characters, so a single mistyped letter or digit almost always shows up as a wrong check digit.
How to track an SOFU container
Enter the full number in the box on this page: SOFU is already filled in, add the seven digits. Navo24 detects CMA CGM from the prefix, reads the line's own events (gate in, loaded, departed, transshipped, discharged) and adds the vessel's live AIS position and an ETA.
If the box is not found, it may not be on an active booking yet, or the digits may be wrong. Try the bill of lading or the booking number instead: they start with the line's code, often CMDU.
Questions about SOFU
Who owns SOFU containers?
CMA CGM.
How do I track an SOFU container?
Type the seven digits after SOFU into the tracking box on this page. No sign-up is needed for a single lookup.
What does the U in SOFU mean?
It is the ISO 6346 equipment category: freight container.
Is SOFU the SCAC of CMA CGM?
No. SOFU is a container owner prefix. CMA CGM's SCAC, used on bills of lading and in customs filings, is CMDU.
Why does my SOFU number show a wrong check digit?
One character is probably mistyped: O and 0, I and 1, or two swapped digits. Check the number printed on the container door or on the bill of lading.