IATA Excepted Quantities (EQ) Shipping Guide

What are the exceptions (EQ)?

The exception (Excepted Quantities, EQ) is a simplified transport procedure under IATA DGR, which applies to small quantities of dangerous goods. Goods eligible for EQ may benefit from simplified packing requirements and a simplified declaration process.

EQ's advantages

• No need to use full UN capacity packaging
• Simplifying the declaration process for hazardous materials
• Packaging costs are lower
• Excepted Quantities Arrangements that remain under the Dangerous Goods Rules, must be confirmed by carrier's acceptance

EQ code rules

Each hazardous product has its corresponding EQ code (E0-E5). The EQ code is also specified.Maximum net amount of individual inner packagingsandMaximum total net amount of individual overpacks：

EQ Packaging Requirements

• In packaging: Each inner packaging does not exceed the maximum quantity specified in the EQ code
• Intermediate packaging: The inner packaging shall be placed in the intermediate packaging and filled with adsorption materials
• Overpack: Solid overpack with total net weight not exceeding the permitted value
• Marking: the use of specified excepted quantity tags; It is important not to be confused with a limited number of aviation markings with Y words.

FAQ

Can dangerous goods within Q:1kg be transported under EQ?
A: Not necessarily. EQ applies to a particular hazard category and a specific UN number, and each packaging is strictly quantitatively limited. The application of EQ is subject to a specific determination based on MSDS and IATA DGR.

Q: Do EQ goods require MSDS?
A: Need. Even when transported under EQ, MSDS is required to confirm the hazard classification and UN number of the goods.