Direct answer
The international transport of dangerous goods is classified into 9 categories according to their main hazards: explosives, gases, flammable liquids, flammable solids, etc., oxidizing substances and organic peroxides, toxic and infectious substances, radioactive substances, corrosive substances and miscellaneous hazardous substances. The category is only the first step; The actual transport must also confirm UN number, correct shipping name, packing class, subsidiary hazard, quantity, description of packaging and transport restrictions.
Nine-class dangerous goods.
| Category | Main risk | Common examples | Preliminary notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category 1 | Explosion | Pyrotechnics, ammunition, partially detonating devices | Usually requires a special permit and a special channel. |
| Category 2 | Gases | Compressed gases, liquefied gases, aerosols | 2.1 Flammable, 2.2 non-flammable, 2.3 toxic gases |
| Category 3 | Flammable liquid | Solvents, coatings, partial perfume | Focus flashpoints, packing classes and single-ware limits |
| Category 4 | Flammable solids, etc. | Self-fired, water-emitting substances | 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, not just by appearance. |
| Category 5 | Oxidizing/organic peroxide | Peroxides, partial bleaching | Focus on temperature control, isolation and compatibility |
| Category 6 | Toxicity/infectivity | Pesticides, toxic chemicals, selected samples | 6.1 Toxic substances and 6.2 infectious substances |
| Category 7 | Radioactive | Radioisotope, measurement source | Special qualifications, packaging and approval required |
| Category 8 | Corrosiveness | Acid, alkaline, corrosive cleaning agent | Focus on material compatibility and leak protection. |
| Category 9 | Miscellaneous risk | Lithium batteries, dry ice, magnetic substances | You have to judge by specific entries and special rules. |
You can't just read the name of the product when you're classified.
The same trade name may be different formulations and dangerous. Classifications usually need to be combined with sections 2, 3, 9, 10, 11 and 14 of the latest version of MSDS, using test data or classification information endorsed by the competent authority, as necessary. UN numbers are transport identification numbers, but they are not a substitute for full classification.
A cargo may also have both a primary and a secondary risk. For example, certain flammable liquids are toxic or corrosive at the same time, with changes in packaging, labelling and quarantine requirements.
Information recommended prior to shipment
- Full and up-to-date version of MSDS, with priority given to English;
- Key data such as product composition, concentration, physical form and flashpoints;
- UN numbers and correct shipping names are known;
- Net content, number of packages, total gross weight and packaging size per inner packaging;
- Place of origin, destination and planned mode of transport;
- Special temperature control, prescription or import licensing requirements.
FAQ
Does section 14 of the MSDS say “non-hazardous goods” make it possible to transport them on a universal basis?
Not necessarily. Carrier may require verification of formulations, test data, destination rules or modes of transport; Overdue, missing or contradictory SDSs may also be returned.
Is Class 9 the least dangerous?
Nope. Category numbering is not a risk sorting. Class 9 goods such as lithium batteries and dry ice may still be subject to strict packing, quantity and transport restrictions.
Can GENORDA handle all nine types of dangerous goods?
There can be no one-size-fits-all commitment. The acceptable range depends on the specific UN entries, quantity, packaging, route, warehousing permit and current Carrier policy, which needs to be evaluated by vote.
Official References
- UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Model Regulations, Rev.24
- ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air
- IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, 67th Edition (2026)
- IMO IMDG Code, 2024 Edition, Amendment 42-24
This paper is used only for a preliminary understanding and does not constitute a classification of hazardous goods, a legal opinion or a guarantee of transport. GENORDA may assist in the preliminary assessment of transport feasibility by submitting MSDS and cargo information.