Dangerous goods (also called hazardous goods) are substances or articles that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment when transported. The term “dangerous goods” is the international standard used in air and ocean freight regulations, while “hazardous materials” (hazmat) is the term used in U.S. domestic transportation regulations. Though the terminology differs, both refer to the same categories of regulated products.
International Dangerous Goods Regulations
Different transport modes are governed by different regulatory frameworks:
- Air: IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) — published annually by the International Air Transport Association, considered the most restrictive mode for dangerous goods.
- Ocean: IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods) — published by the International Maritime Organization.
- Road/Truck (US): DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) — 49 CFR Parts 100-185.
- International Road: ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road).
The Nine Dangerous Goods Classes
The UN classification system divides dangerous goods into nine classes: explosives (Class 1), gases (Class 2), flammable liquids (Class 3), flammable solids (Class 4), oxidizers (Class 5), toxic/infectious substances (Class 6), radioactive materials (Class 7), corrosives (Class 8), and miscellaneous dangerous goods including lithium batteries and dry ice (Class 9).
Dangerous Goods Surcharges
Carriers assess dangerous goods surcharges ranging from approximately $40 to several hundred dollars per package, depending on the hazard class, carrier, and service level. For air shipments, certain categories — state-of-charge lithium batteries, for instance — may be prohibited entirely on passenger aircraft. Companies shipping dangerous goods must ensure staff handling the shipments are trained and certified under applicable regulations, and that all packaging, labeling, and documentation meet current standards.