Dangerous goods: classify before booking

Check the product’s transport classification before choosing a service. Air, road, sea and rail each have their own acceptance and documentation rules.

Reference notes for day-to-day freight decisions.

International freight logistics

The UN number, proper shipping name, class, packing group where applicable and package approval influence which carrier can accept a load. Do not use a general commodity label in place of the correct classification.

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Classify before pricing

Transport rules for dangerous goods differ by mode and by the substance or article. The correct UN number, transport hazard class, packing group where applicable and safety information should be established before selecting a service.

For a related planning decision, see packing checklist.

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Modes follow different rulebooks

Air movements are subject to applicable aviation dangerous goods provisions; sea shipments to the IMDG Code; road transport to the relevant national or regional rules such as ADR where applicable. An item acceptable by road is not automatically acceptable by air.

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Packaging and declarations are specialised

Marking, labelling, segregation, training and documentation requirements cannot be determined from weight and dimensions alone. Engage a qualified dangerous goods specialist.

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Be explicit about batteries

Lithium batteries, battery-powered equipment and loose cells are common sources of undeclared dangerous goods risk. Share exact chemistry, watt-hours or lithium content, packaging configuration and test information with the provider.

Acceptance depends on mode and classification

A battery-powered industrial item may be treated differently by air, road and sea. Ask the shipper for proper classification, current safety documentation, packaging instructions and the carrier’s written acceptance before choosing the service.

This is an illustrative planning example, not a current quotation, legal instruction or promise of transport capacity. Confirm shipment-specific requirements with the responsible carrier, broker or regulator.

Related route and service checks

Use this on the next shipment.

Use the checks in this guide alongside the actual booking instructions. The UN number, proper shipping name, class, packing group where applicable and package approval influence which carrier can accept a load. Do not use a general commodity label in place of the correct classification.

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