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IMDG Dangerous Goods Classes

Which class does your dangerous cargo fall into? See the 9 IMDG classes with their divisions and example substances.

What is the IMDG Code?

The IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code) is the set of rules the International Maritime Organization (IMO) uses for the safe carriage of dangerous goods by sea. Substances are grouped into 9 classes by type of hazard, and some classes have divisions.

Before you ship dangerous goods

  • Have the product's safety data sheet (SDS) ready; it states the class, UN number and packing group.
  • Complete the dangerous goods declaration (DGD) in full.
  • Make sure the packaging is UN-approved and correctly labelled.
  • Get the carrier's approval before loading; some classes are not accepted on every vessel or at every port.

Air freight follows IATA DGR and road freight follows ADR. The classes are similar, but packing and quantity limits differ.

Frequently asked questions

Which class are lithium batteries?

Lithium batteries are usually class 9. The UN number depends on the battery type, its rating and whether it is packed with or inside equipment.

What is a packing group?

It shows the degree of danger: I is high, II medium and III low, and it sets the packaging standard required.

Do you carry dangerous goods?

Send us the SDS and quantities; we will check carrier and route acceptance and get back to you.

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