Packaging requirements for hazardous materials
Cold Chain & Dangerous Goods
3 min read Updated August 2026
Dangerous goods must be packaged in UN-certified packaging appropriate to the specific hazard class, quantity, and mode of transport. Standard commercial packaging is not sufficient for regulated goods, regardless of how the product would normally be packed for domestic sale.
Key requirements
- UN specification packaging — marked with a UN packaging code indicating it has been tested and certified for the relevant hazard class and packing group.
- Correct hazard labeling — diamond-shaped hazard labels matching the product's UN class, plus any required handling labels (e.g. orientation arrows, "Cargo Aircraft Only").
- Inner and outer packaging combinations — many hazard classes require a specific combination of primary containment, absorbent material, and outer packaging, not just a single layer.
Incorrectly packaged dangerous goods will not be accepted for transport under IATA, IMDG, or ADR regulations — this is a hard compliance requirement, not a ZargoLogix preference, and applies to every carrier in the industry.
If you don't have access to UN-certified packaging, our dangerous goods team can advise on compliant options or coordinate packaging as part of your shipment — mention this when requesting your quote.
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