Dangerous Goods (DG) Ocean Freight Guide

Dangerous Goods (DG) refer to substances and materials that may pose risks such as fire, explosion, corrosion, environmental harm, or toxicity during transportation. Common DG cargo includes chemicals, batteries, paints, solvents, gas cylinders, aerosols, and many industrial raw materials.
To ensure the safety of maritime transportation, all DG shipments must comply with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code), established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This global regulation standardizes DG classification, packaging, labeling, documentation, and stowage requirements for all ocean carriers.
1. Key Requirements of the IMDG Code
The IMDG Code covers the complete safety framework for transporting dangerous goods by sea. Core components include:

DG Classification (Class 1–9)
UN Number & Proper Shipping Name (PSN)
UN-certified packaging with required performance tests
Correct marking & labeling (Class labels, UN number, handling marks)
Mandatory documents such as the Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods
Segregation rules and stowage conditions on board
Emergency response guidance (EmS & MFAG)

Only after receiving DG approval (hazmat acceptance) from the carrier can DG cargo be booked and loaded onto a vessel.
2. IMDG Dangerous Goods Classification (Class 1–9)

Class 1 – Explosives
Class 2 – Gases (flammable, non-flammable, toxic)
Class 3 – Flammable Liquids
Class 4 – Flammable Solids / Spontaneously Combustible / Dangerous When Wet
Class 5 – Oxidizers & Organic Peroxides
Class 6 – Toxic & Infectious Substances
Class 7 – Radioactive Materials
Class 8 – Corrosives
Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods (e.g., lithium batteries, dry ice)

Each DG item has an assigned UN Number, hazard class, packing group, and specific requirements for documentation, packaging, and labeling.
3. Required Documents for DG Ocean Shipment
To comply with IMDG standards, shippers must provide the following:

MSDS / SDS (within 3 years)
Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods
UN-certified packaging with valid UN marking
Photos of labels and markings on outer packaging
UN38.3 test report (for lithium batteries)
Commercial invoice & packing list for customs purposes

Any incorrect declaration or incomplete marking could result in fines, shipment delays, rejection by carriers, or even legal liabilities.
4. Importance of Professional DG Handling
DG shipping involves strict international regulations, complex documentation, carrier approvals, stowage rules, and safety considerations. A professional DG logistics provider ensures that your cargo:

Is properly classified and documented
Meets IMDG packaging and labeling standards
Passes carrier acceptance and DG approval
Is loaded and segregated safely on board
Moves smoothly through customs and port procedures

SeaMax Int’l Logistics Co., Ltd. offers comprehensive DG handling experience and global network support, enabling safe, compliant, and efficient transportation of dangerous goods worldwide.
IMDG CLASSIFICATION – 9 HAZARD CLASSES
Class 1 – Explosives
Fireworks, ammunition, detonators
Highest hazard; strict carrier restrictions
Class 2 – Gases
Compressed, liquefied, or refrigerated gases
Examples: oxygen cylinders, butane, aerosols
Includes 2.1 flammable, 2.2 non-flammable, 2.3 toxic gases
Class 3 – Flammable Liquids
Alcohols, paints, solvents, perfumes
Flash point is the key hazard indicator
Class 4 – Flammable Solids / Spontaneously Combustible / Dangerous When Wet
Sulfur, metal powders, phosphorus
⚠ Ignites through friction, air, or water exposure
Class 5 – Oxidizing Substances & Organic Peroxides
Bleaching agents, peroxides
Intensifies combustion; cannot mix with Class 3
Class 6 – Toxic & Infectious Substances
Toxic chemicals, medical samples
Strict packaging & isolation required
Class 7 – Radioactive Materials
Medical isotopes, research materials
Highly controlled; limited carriers available
Class 8 – Corrosive Substances
Acids, alkalis, battery fluid
High leakage risk; requires corrosion-resistant packaging
Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods
Lithium batteries, magnetized materials, dry ice
One of the most common DG categories in ocean freight
You can contact us to get more information of DG through below hot line.