Shipping Modes

Dangerous Goods (DG)

Illustration for Dangerous Goods (DG), Shipping Modes

Cargo classified as hazardous under IMDG (sea) or IATA (air) regulations — including batteries, chemicals, aerosols, and flammable items. Requires special packaging, labelling, documentation, and carrier approval.

In depth

Dangerous goods (DG) require classification per IMDG Code (sea) or IATA DGR (air), proper packaging, labels, and a shipper’s declaration. Many consumer items (lithium batteries, perfumes, aerosols) are DG. Carriers and forwarders must approve booking before cargo is accepted.

Key points

  • Shipper must classify or use competent authority / lab testing
  • Lithium batteries have dedicated packing instructions (e.g. PI 965–970)
  • Air is stricter than ocean: many DG forbidden on passenger aircraft
  • Penalties for undeclared DG include fines and criminal liability

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