Dangerous goods shipping: IMDG and IATA regulations

Shipping dangerous goods (hazardous materials) internationally requires strict compliance with transport regulations to protect people, property, and the environment.

Classification

The United Nations classifies dangerous goods into 9 classes: explosives, gases, flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidizers and organic peroxides, toxic and infectious substances, radioactive material, corrosives, and miscellaneous dangerous goods.

Sea Freight — IMDG Code

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code governs the packing, labeling, documentation, and stowage of hazardous materials on ships. Compliance is mandatory under the SOLAS convention.

Air Freight — IATA DGR

The International Air Transport Association Dangerous Goods Regulations (IATA DGR) are even stricter. Many substances that can travel by sea are prohibited by air. All personnel handling DG shipments must hold valid IATA DGR training certificates.

What You Need

• Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — Provided by the manufacturer, detailing hazards and handling precautions.
• UN number — A four-digit identifier for the substance (e.g., UN 1170 for ethanol).
• Dangerous Goods Declaration — A shipper's declaration form certifying the goods are properly classified, packed, and labeled.
• Proper packaging — UN-certified packaging tested for the specific class and packing group.

On Faktorist, products flagged as potentially hazardous prompt the seller to confirm UN classification and provide an SDS before a deal can proceed.