Packaging and Labeling Dangerous Goods: Compliance Essentials

From electronics and medicines to chemicals and fuels, goods come in all forms, and not all are harmless. 

Some items, known as dangerous goods, pose risks to health, safety, property, or the environment during transport. These include flammable liquids, corrosive substances, toxic chemicals, and lithium batteries.

Proper packaging and labeling of such goods is not just a formality. It ensures safe handling, helps avoid legal penalties, and keeps the supply chain moving smoothly. Whether shipped by air, sea, or road, dangerous goods must comply with strict international regulations set by IATA, IMDG, and ADR. Failing to follow these rules can result in costly delays or serious hazards.

Classification of Dangerous Goods

Dangerous goods are categorized into nine classes based on the type of risk they have.

They can be explosives, gases, flammable liquids, or solids categorized into flammable classes. Other categories may include oxidizing substances, toxic and infectious substances, radioactive materials, corrosives, and miscellaneous dangerous materials.

Every class of dangerous goods has specific packaging and labeling requirements to ensure safety in transportation. Class 3, for example, deals with flammable liquids, and goods that fall under this classification must be in leak-proof containers with hazard labels. These classifications inform carriers, handlers, and emergency responders as to the type of hazard so that they can take the necessary measures.

Global authorities like the UN Model Regulations ensure global applicability through uniformity among these classifications. 

Packaging Requirements 

Packaging of dangerous goods should adhere to international standards for safety during transportation. The UN packaging system assigns codes to packaged goods depending upon hazards and performance levels (I, II, III). Good packaging must be leak-proof, strong, and suitable for the contents to avoid chemical reactions or spills. 

Different packaging materials and designs are position-wise selected according to the class of dangerous goods. Some examples are drums, packing boxes, or composite packaging. 

Non-compliance with international regulations like IATA, IMDG, or ADR may result in delays, fines, or rejected shipments.

Labeling Requirements 

Dangerous goods have to be correctly and accurately labeled, as this is important in the identification, handling, and emergency response. Labels must display the UN number, hazard class, and handling instructions according to international regulations like IATA, IMDG, and ADR.

Visible hazard labels, handling symbols, and any shipping marks required, such as orientation arrows or limited quantity marks, need to be attached to each package. The labels must be weather-resistant, legible, and applied against a clear background for visibility.

Marking Requirements 

From origin to destination, proper marking ensures the correct identification and handling of dangerous goods. Marks provide important information different from that of labels, concentrating on the package itself.

Key marking elements include:

• UN number (e.g., UN 1993 for flammable liquids)
• Proper shipping name clearly written in English
• Handling instructions, such as “Keep Away from Heat”
• Orientation arrows for liquids or materials requiring upright transport
• Limited quantity marks when applicable

All markings must be durable, clearly visible, and comply with international regulations like IATA, IMDG, and ADR. Incorrect marking can lead to mishandling and regulatory issues.

Types of Dangerous Goods Labels (100–120 words)

Dangerous goods are classified into nine hazard classes, each requiring specific labels for easy identification and compliance during transportation. These labels are color-coded and symbol-based to communicate risks clearly.

Common label types include:

• Class 1: Explosives (e.g., fireworks)
• Class 2: Gases (e.g., compressed oxygen)
• Class 3: Flammable liquids (e.g., petrol)
• Class 4: Flammable solids
• Class 5: Oxidizers and organic peroxides
• Class 6: Toxic and infectious substances
• Class 7: Radioactive materials
• Class 8: Corrosives (e.g., acids)
• Class 9: Miscellaneous dangerous substances

Label Placement and Durability

Proper placement and durability of labels on dangerous goods are important for safe and compliant transportation. Incorrectly placed or worn-out labels can lead to delays, mishandling, or even accidents during freight shipping.

Key considerations for label placement:

• Visibility: Ensure that labels are clearly visible on all sides of the package.
• Size: Use labels of the appropriate size based on package dimensions.
• Positioning: Avoid placing labels near seams, edges, or other areas where they might be obscured.
• Multiple labels: Some goods may require multiple labels for different hazards (e.g., flammable and toxic). These should not overlap or obscure each other.

Durability of labels

Weather-resistant materials – Labels must withstand exposure to harsh conditions like rain, sunlight, and extreme temperatures, ensuring they remain legible throughout the transportation process.

Abrasion resistance – Ensure labels are resistant to scratches or fading, particularly for long-distance cargo transportation.

Labeling Dangerous Goods

Properly labeling dangerous goods includes key information to follow global transport laws set by IATA, IMDG, and ADR. Appropriate labeling is important both for keeping people safe and for handling and transporting products easily.

Key labeling requirements for dangerous goods include:

• UN number: Each dangerous goods package must display the unique UN number to identify the material.
• Proper shipping name: Clearly display the material’s full name as recognized by international standards.
• Hazard class label: A diamond-shaped label indicating the hazard class, such as:
  • Class 3 for flammable liquids.
  • Class 9 for miscellaneous hazardous substances.

• Handling marks: Labels should include instructions like “This Way Up” or “Keep Away From Heat” to guide handlers.
• Orientation arrows: Essential for liquids and gas cylinders to indicate the correct upright position.
• Language: Labels should be in English, as it is the standard international language for shipping and handling instructions.
• Durability: Ensure that labels are resistant to weather, abrasion, and wear, ensuring clear visibility throughout the entire shipping process.

These regulations and standards ensure that dangerous goods are transported safely and that mishandling is minimized. Compliance with these guidelines can help avoid potential accidents, delays, or fines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

An error in packaging or labeling dangerous goods can lead to major issues, including delays, fines, or refusal of the shipment. You should be cautious and avoid errors that might delay your shipment.

Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Using non-certified packaging for dangerous goods.
• Failing to include or incorrectly listing the UN number.
• Having faded or poorly placed labels.
• Ignoring the required inner packaging for extra protection.
• Not updating the Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) with the latest details.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures smoother shipping and helps stay compliant with international regulations.

Key Takeaways

Packaging and labeling dangerous goods correctly is a critical aspect of ensuring safe, legal, and efficient shipping. 

Adhering to the strict requirements set by global transport authorities like IATA, IMDG, and ADR protects people and the environment but also helps avoid costly fines and shipment delays. Whether you’re dealing with hazardous materials or simply need reliable freight logistics services, partnering with an experienced logistics service provider like Mass Shipping Line guarantees compliance and smooth transportation. 

Ready to ship dangerous goods safely? Contact Mass Shipping Line today for expert guidance and logistics solutions.