What Counts as Dangerous Goods in International Freight? A Practical Guide for East African Importers

Moving cargo across borders is complex enough. When your shipment is classified as “dangerous goods,” the stakes and the rules rise dramatically. Whether you’re importing chemicals for manufacturing, aerosols for retail, lithium batteries for electronics, or medical oxygen, understanding dangerous goods (DG) is essential to keep people, property, and the environment safe, and to avoid costly delays or fines.

This guide breaks down what counts as dangerous goods, how the world classifies them, what paperwork and packaging you need, and how to move them safely by sea, air, road, and rail. We’ll also show how Simpet Global Logistics supports importers across East Africa—Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and beyond—in properly declaring DG and consolidating cargo without mixing hazardous and non-hazardous goods.

Need help right away? Explore our services at simpetcargo.com or talk to us about cargo consolidation, DG documentation, and warehouse segregation.

What Are “Dangerous Goods”?

Dangerous goods (also called hazardous materials or hazmat) are substances or articles that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment when transported. The risk could be fire, explosion, toxicity, corrosion, infection, radioactivity, or even a violent reaction with other cargo.

Some DG are obviously risky—explosives, flammable liquids. Others are common consumer products that become dangerous in transit: aerosols, paints, perfumes, batteries, cleaning agents, medical samples, or power banks. That’s why correct identification, packaging, labeling, and documentation are crucial.

How Dangerous Goods Are Classified Worldwide

Most countries follow the United Nations (UN) Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (the “Orange Book”), which standardize:

• UN numbers (e.g., UN 1203 for gasoline)

• Proper Shipping Names (PSN)

• Hazard classes and divisions

• Packing groups (I, II, III)

• Labels/placards and packaging performance standards

Modal rules build on this framework:

• Air: IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR)

• Sea: IMDG Code (for all ocean shipments)

• Road/Rail: ADR/RID (Europe) and national laws aligned to UN guidance
  In East Africa, authorities and carriers expect compliance with UN-based rules, IATA/IMDG where applicable, and national port/aviation directives.

The 9 UN Hazard Classes (With Examples)

Below is a concise overview so you can quickly map your product to the right hazard class. Many items also have subsidiary risks (e.g., flammable and toxic), which influence labels and stowage.

Class 1 – Explosives

• Divisions: 1.1 (mass explosion), 1.2 (projection hazard), 1.3 (fire hazard), 1.4 (minor), 1.5 (very insensitive, mass explosion), 1.6 (extremely insensitive, no mass explosion).

• Examples: Fireworks, detonators, blasting caps.

• Notes: Strict carrier approvals; often restricted by air and in consolidation.

Class 2 – Gases

• Divisions: 2.1 (flammable), 2.2 (non-flammable, non-toxic), 2.3 (toxic).

• Examples: Propane (2.1), compressed air (2.2), chlorine (2.3).

• Notes: Cylinders need approved valves, pressure tests, and special handling.

Class 3 – Flammable Liquids

• Examples: Petrol/gasoline, ethanol, acetone, paints, certain solvents and perfumes.

• Packing Groups: I (high danger), II (medium), III (low).

• Notes: Flash point dictates risk level.

Class 4 – Flammable Solids; Substances Liable to Spontaneous Combustion; Substances Which, in Contact with Water, Emit Flammable Gases

• Divisions: 4.1 (flammable solids), 4.2 (spontaneously combustible), 4.3 (dangerous when wet).

• Examples: Matches (4.1), phosphorus (4.2), sodium/potassium metals (4.3).

Class 5 – Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides

• Divisions: 5.1 (oxidizers), 5.2 (organic peroxides).

• Examples: Calcium hypochlorite (pool shock), hydrogen peroxide solutions, MEKP.

• Notes: Intensify combustion; require strict segregation from combustibles.

Class 6 – Toxic and Infectious Substances

• Divisions: 6.1 (toxic), 6.2 (infectious).

• Examples: Pesticides (6.1), clinical samples, cultures, medical waste (6.2).

Class 7 – Radioactive Material

• Notes: Specialized packaging and licensing; strict carrier and route controls.

Class 8 – Corrosives

• Examples: Acids (sulfuric, hydrochloric), alkalis (sodium hydroxide), battery acid.

• Notes: Can destroy skin/metals; packaging integrity is critical.

Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Substances and Articles

• Examples: Lithium batteries, dry ice, environmentally hazardous substances, magnetized material.

• Notes: Don’t underestimate Class 9—lithium batteries are among the most common DG non-compliance issues in e-commerce and electronics.

Packing Groups (PG) and Why They Matter

For applicable classes, DG are assigned Packing Group I (high danger), II (medium), or III (low) based on how severe the hazard is. The PG determines:

• Performance standards for packaging (drop/stack/pressure tests)

• Maximum inner/outer container sizes

• Segregation and stowage requirements

• Emergency response planning

Tip: The Safety Data Sheet (SDS)—Section 14—usually lists the UN number, PSN, class, packing group, and marine/air transport notes. Always request an up-to-date SDS from your supplier.

Documentation You’ll Need

Accurate paperwork prevents delays at origin, transshipment hubs, and destination ports like Mombasa or Dar es Salaam, and airports like JKIA Nairobi or MBA Mombasa.

1. Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods (air) – Required for most DG by air per IATA DGR.

2. IMDG documentation (sea) – Includes the DG manifest details for ocean freight.

3. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) – Authoritative source for classification; keep current.

4. UN-approved packaging certificates/test reports – Prove packaging compliance.

5. Permits/Licenses – Depending on substance (e.g., pesticides, medical gases).

6. Labels/Marks/Placards – Hazard class labels, UN number, orientation arrows, marine pollutant marks, lithium battery marks, etc.

Incorrect or incomplete DG declarations can lead to fines, cargo rejection, re-packing costs, storage and demurrage, or even seizure. Proper declaration is not optional—it’s legal and ethical.

Mode-by-Mode: What Changes for Air, Sea, and Road

Air Freight (IATA DGR)

• Most restrictive due to aircraft safety and pressurization.

• Quantity limits per package; many items need UN-spec packaging and Shipper’s Declaration.

• Lithium batteries (UN 3480/3481, UN 3090/3091) have detailed rules for state of charge, watt-hours, and over-pack limits.

• Temperature-sensitive oxidizers and peroxides may face seasonal embargoes.

Sea Freight (IMDG Code)

• Larger allowable quantities but strict segregation by class and stowage (e.g., “away from” or “separated from”).

• Many DG move exclusively by sea if prohibited by air.

• Container stuffing must follow segregation tables; use of DG-ready containers and proper placarding is essential.

Road and Inland Transport

• National rules align with UN standards; in East Africa, in-country movement requires valid DG labels and documentation.

• Transit cargo to landlocked countries (Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, DRC border points) must maintain compliant placards, emergency info, and securement all the way through.

Packaging, Marking, and Segregation: The Non-Negotiables

1. Use UN-certified packaging appropriate to the class and packing group.

2. Mark and label every package: Proper Shipping Name, UN number, hazard label(s), and other required marks (e.g., limited quantity, marine pollutant).

3. Segregate incompatible goods.

   • Oxidizers (Class 5.1) must be kept away from flammables (Class 3/4).

   • Acids (Class 8) must not be stored with cyanides (Class 6.1).

   • Lithium batteries must be protected against short-circuit and from metal objects.

4. Plan stowage so that DG are accessible for inspection and not exposed to heat sources or moisture.

5. Document over-packs and consignments clearly so handlers know exactly what hazards are present.

Common “Hidden DG” That Trip Up Importers

• Aerosols (hairspray, insecticides, cleaners) – Often Class 2.1.

• Batteries and power banks – Class 9; terminals must be protected.

• Paints, varnishes, adhesives – Many are Class 3.

• Disinfectants and cleaning agents – Often Class 3, 5.1, or 8.

• Perfumes and cosmetics – Alcohol content can make them Class 3.

• Lab kits and medical samples – May be Class 6.2 or contain dry ice (Class 9).

• Pool chemicals – Calcium hypochlorite (5.1) frequently causes port incidents when misdeclared.

If you’re unsure, treat it as DG until confirmed otherwise via the SDS and a qualified DG classification review.

Why Proper Declaration Protects Your Business

• Safety first: Prevents fires, chemical reactions, environmental harm.

• Legal compliance: Avoids fines, cargo rejection, and legal exposure.

• Insurance validity: Misdeclared shipments risk claim denial.

• Transit reliability: Correctly declared DG is less likely to be delayed; carriers trust compliant shippers and forwarders.

How Simpet Supports DG Importers Across East Africa

Simpet Global Logistics specializes in compliant, end-to-end DG handling for ocean, air, and multimodal moves serving Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan. Here’s how we help:

1) DG Classification & Declaration

• Review SDS and product data to confirm UN number, PSN, class/division, packing group, and modal restrictions.

• Prepare or vet the Shipper’s Declaration (air) and IMDG documentation (sea).

• Advise on quantity limits, exemptions (e.g., Limited Quantity/Excepted Quantity), and packaging options.

• Coordinate with carriers and authorities for special approvals where required.

Start the process here: Simpet Global Logistics

2) Cargo Consolidation With Strict Segregation

• We operate consolidation services designed to protect your freight and everyone around it:

  • Never mix incompatible DG with general cargo or with other DG classes that conflict.

  • Use DG-compliant pallets and over-packs, with clear labels and UN numbers.

  • Dedicated zones for DG in our warehouses; temperature and ventilation controls where needed.

• For LCL (Less than Container Load), we use segregation plans to ensure that your DG doesn’t compromise other shippers’ cargo—or vice versa.

Learn more about consolidation and warehousing: simpetcargo.com

3) DG-Ready Warehousing & Documentation Control

• Inbound verification of marks, labels, and packaging integrity.

• Separate storage for oxidizers, flammables, corrosives, and batteries.

• Real-time inventory and movement logs to support audits and traceability.

• Document control to keep declarations, permits, and packaging proofs aligned with each consignment.

4) Multimodal Routing for the Region

• Sea via Mombasa or Dar es Salaam, with onward road/rail to Nairobi, Kampala, Kigali, Juba, and border posts.

• Air via JKIA and MBA for time-sensitive or restricted goods.

• Pre-booked DG slots with carriers and compliant drayage/haulage to avoid last-minute refusals.

5) Risk Management & Incident Readiness

• Emergency response information with each shipment.

• Spill kits and trained personnel in DG handling.

• Collaboration with insurers and surveyors where required.

Talk to our team about DG projects: simpetcargo.com

Short Case Snapshot: Lithium Batteries via Sea + Road to Uganda

A regional electronics importer needed to move Class 9 lithium batteries from Asia to Kampala. Air options were limited by state-of-charge and quantity restrictions. Simpet routed the cargo IMDG-compliant by sea to Mombasa, verified UN-spec packaging, applied the correct Class 9 and lithium marks, and scheduled DG-aware trucking through Malaba. We maintained physical segregation from flammable liquids in the same container yard and ensured proper documentation for smooth border clearance. Result: on-time delivery with zero incidents.

Practical Checklist for East African Importers

1. Get the SDS (latest version) and identify UN number, PSN, class, packing group.

2. Confirm packaging: UN-certified where required; check inner/outer limits.

3. Decide the mode (air vs sea) based on restrictions, timing, and cost.

4. Prepare declarations (IATA DGR for air; IMDG details for sea).

5. Label and mark: Hazard labels, UN number, handling marks, orientation arrows.

6. Segregate in storage and during consolidation—don’t mix incompatibles.

7. Book with a DG-competent forwarder—that’s us.

8. Plan final-mile across borders: placards, emergency info, customs permits.

Need a ready-to-use template and guidance? Reach us via simpetcargo.com and ask about our DG starter pack for importers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) My product is in spray cans. Is that DG?
Likely Class 2.1 (flammable gas) or 2.2 (non-flammable) depending on propellant and contents. Aerosols often have quantity limits per package and require specific labels. Share your SDS and we’ll confirm classification.

2) Are all batteries dangerous goods?
Most lithium batteries are Class 9, with strict packaging and charge limits—especially by air. Lead-acid batteries can be Class 8 (corrosive) due to acid. We’ll help you choose the right mode and packaging.

3) Can I ship DG with regular cargo in the same container?
Only if segregation rules are met and items are compatible. Simpet’s consolidation plans ensure DG isn’t placed with incompatible items (e.g., oxidizers with flammables). When in doubt, we separate.

4) What happens if DG is misdeclared?
Carriers can refuse or offload the shipment; authorities may fine or seize cargo; insurance may deny claims. Worst case: safety incidents. Always declare correctly.

5) What if my supplier says “not DG” but the SDS suggests otherwise?
We rely on the SDS and UN criteria, not informal statements. Simpet will perform a classification review and align documentation with the proper UN entry.

6) How long does DG clearance take in East Africa?
Timelines vary by mode, commodity, and permits. With correct documents and pre-alerts, clearance can be efficient. Our teams at Mombasa, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Kampala coordinate closely to reduce dwell time.

Final Word: Compliance Protects People and Your Bottom Line

The world’s DG framework isn’t red tape for its own sake; it’s a safety system built on hard-learned lessons. Importers who respect it avoid disruptions, reduce risk, and protect their brand.

Simpet Global Logistics is your partner for correct DG declarations, safe consolidation, and compliant end-to-end movement across East Africa. From classification and packaging advice to carrier bookings, warehousing, and last-mile delivery, we keep your supply chain moving safely.

Let’s get your next DG shipment right from the start.

• Explore services: simpetcargo.com

• Talk to us about cargo consolidation and DG handling: simpetcargo.com

This article is provided for general guidance. Always consult the latest IATA DGR/IMDG Code and applicable national regulations for your specific shipment. Simpet can help you interpret and apply the rules to your cargo.