If you are planning to pack and transport a shipping container, then you have to be aware of dangerous goods transport regulations. There are strict limitations on the what dangerous goods transport companies are able to move for you.
Dangerous Goods Transport – What Items are Restricted?
Dangerous goods may be solids, liquids or gases that may harm people or other organisms. In many instances they are items that are:
- Flammable
- Radioactive
- Explosive
- Corrosive
- Oxidising
- Biohazardous
- Asphyxiating
- Toxic
- Pathogenic
- Allergenic
Dangerous Goods Labelling
There are many different items that cannot be transported in a shipping container. Many of them will have an indication on the packaging that they are dangerous goods. Dangerous goods packaging is usually accompanied by a coloured diamond on the label. The diamond could be:
- Red – for flammable goods
- Orange – for explosive goods
- Yellow – for oxidising goods
- Green – for non-flammable, non-toxic gas
Most countries, including Australia, have strict guidelines for transporting dangerous goods. Regular Joes are not allowed to transport dangerous goods – that means no shipping lawn mowers with gasoline in them, aerosols, plant life or liquids. If you are planning to transport items, you should consult your container company for advice about what can and cannot be packed.
