Dangerous goods packing and shipping

We understand there are times when you need to ship dangerous or hazardous goods, including explosives, flammable substances, and toxic chemicals. Thanks to the nature of these items, they need to be handled extremely carefully and shipped as safely as possible.

The shipment and supply of dangerous items is a complex and highly regulated industry, for good reason. When dangerous goods leak or combust, there can be serious consequences.

The right packing is essential to prevent accidents. Tuplin has the experience and expertise to provide the specialist knowledge, trained personnel, and approved packing materials and methods.

Whether travelling by road, sea or air, we can organise the packing and shipping of hazardous materials to meet compliance and ensure safe travel, from door to door. We ensure your hazardous cargo packing complies with local and international regulations, and we supply the correct documentation and labelling.

Dangerous goods packing at a glance:

  • ADR (road), IATA (air) and IMDG (sea) hazardous shipments
  • Correct packing of 4G cartons or packing cases (including plywood batten-frame and all-timber options), and accurate labelling
  • Provision and completion of DGN (Dangerous Goods Notes) documents
  • Hazardous packing on or off site
  • Airline and destination advice.

What is considered ‘hazardous’ in shipping?

In shipping, hazardous or dangerous goods are items that pose a risk to people, property or the environment during transport. For this reason, these goods require careful handling, specialist packaging and compliance with strict international regulations.

But what exactly is considered a hazardous or dangerous item or substance?

Some common examples include:

  • Batteries
  • Gas cylinders
  • Flammable liquids and solids, including fuels, paints, adhesives, etc.
  • Corrosive substances like acids or alkalis
  • Explosives, including fireworks or matches
  • Aerosol sprays
  • Medical or laboratory chemicals, like disinfectants
  • Cleaning chemicals, including bleach and ammonia.
Packing materials with person working in backgorund

Why use Tuplin for your hazardous items?

Packing at Newmarket

Compliant, quality packing

When you’re shipping hazardous materials, the packing and labelling needs to meet the expectations set out by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) codes.

Our specialist case design and packaging and use of certified 4G cartons meets these requirements ensuring your hazardous cargo can be approved for safe, compliant shipping. When the items are packaged properly, the risk of damage, including leaks, is reduced.

Dependable shipping with clear communication

We don’t wave off your goods and leave you in the dark about where they are or when they’ll arrive. Communication is important to us, which is why we update you during every step of your item’s journey and notify you when it’s been successfully delivered.

Man at desk with headset on a call

Decades of shipping and packing experience

Did you know we have over 40 years’ experience in the packing and shipping industry? Over this time, we’ve built relationships with agents across every major country, meaning we can confidently organise the delivery of your goods via freight forwarding, no matter where they are headed.

Specialist shipping to and from China and Asia

China and Asia have notoriously detailed and strict customs regulations. They require more precise documentation than any other area, and their regulations can be subject to change.

Luckily, our Tuplin China team has in-depth knowledge about freight and shipping to and from China, meaning we can arrange the smoothest and most cost-effective transport for your goods. They will also be able to advise on what dangerous or hazardous items can and can’t be shipped within the area.

Dangerous goods FAQs

What kinds of goods do you accept?

We handle a wide range of hazardous and dangerous goods, including batteries (lithium-ion, alkaline, rechargeable), gas cylinders, aerosols, paints, solvents, adhesives, cleaning chemicals, medical reagents, fireworks, and other regulated items. Each shipment is carefully assessed to ensure it can be safely and compliantly packed and transported.

What kinds of hazardous goods won’t you ship?

For safety and regulatory reasons, there are certain items we cannot accept. These typically include explosives with extreme sensitivity, highly radioactive materials, or any goods that cannot be packed to meet international transport regulations. If you’re unsure whether your items are acceptable, our team can advise and suggest safe alternatives or specialist handling solutions.

Do I need special paperwork to ship hazardous goods?

Hazardous goods require precise documentation, such as Dangerous Goods Notes (DGN) and compliance forms specific to air, sea, or road transport. But don’t worry, we will handle all of this for you.

How should dangerous goods be packaged?

To prevent leaks, spills or accidents while travelling, the packaging needs to meet strict international standards. We use only approved materials and techniques, including UN-rated boxes, cushioning, sealing and labelling, to ensure your goods are transported safely.

What happens if the hazardous items are damaged in transit?

While incidents are extremely rare, our packing methods are designed to prevent damage before it happens. Every case is built, sealed and labelled to international standards, with quality checks at each stage of the process. This gives you confidence that your cargo is secure, compliant and ready for global transport. Should your cargo be damaged in transit, our team of experts are on-hand to help resolve issues and minimise any disruption or impact on your goods. 

Why use Tuplin?

24/7 Support

Our teams can work around the clock every day of the week to suit your operations.

100% On-time

Our experience means we haven’t missed a single delivery deadline in the last 12 months.

Personal Contact

Our dedicated teams keep you in-touch with your project at every step.