Most of us get through life quite easily without ever needing to transport dangerous goods. In fact, most of us would probably class dangerous goods as weapons and radioactive waste – not something the majority of people are exposed to.
Although these extreme examples certainly are dangerous goods, many things that we come into contact with also qualify. Compressed gases such as simple aerosols are classed as dangerous goods, as are fireworks. If you’re sending these through what is regarded as an open postal system (either the official postal service or by courier) then these types of items need the correct packaging materials.
Surprising amount of ‘dangerous goods’
Dangerous goods range from certain medical supplies, items like flares and lighter refills all the way to the more obvious such as weapons, certain wastes and many types of chemicals. There are literally thousands of products listed as dangerous goods, so don’t be fooled by the assumption that if you don’t really regard it as dangerous, the authorities won’t either!
Dangerous goods are usually anything flammable, explosive or harmful to humans and other living organisms. The need to transport dangerous goods can crop up when you weren’t necessarily expecting it, so being aware of what is and isn’t classed as dangerous goods is particularly useful, especially when you’re working with a wide range of products.
UN Certified Packaging
Finding a company that sells packing specifically for the transportation of dangerous goods is actually quite easy, but it’s important to make sure that they have UN certified packaging and that they are available to answer any questions you may have about their products.
Specialist companies understand the importance of getting the packaging right and offer crucial advice when you’re deciding what packaging you need. Remember that it needs to be UN certified, but it also needs to be suited to your goods and a professional dangerous goods packaging company will help you match the item to the right UN certified packaging.
It’s also important to remember that different countries may require different labelling and safety precautions and that a good packaging company will be well versed in differences and specific, region-specific requirements.
Affordable and Reliable
Getting the correct packaging first-off saves money and time and that’s why choosing a reliable company who have dangerous goods packaging expertise is so vital. A good company will allow you to get all the information and advice you need to make the right choice not to mention buying online frequently means you can get what you need at a competitive price.
Advice Combined with Packaging
The overall responsibility for the safe and legal transportation of dangerous goods lies with you, the shipper. As a result, it is important that you select a dangerous goods packaging company that will provide you with first class advice, and who are experts in their products. Getting advice from one party and buying from another can frequently lead to incorrect purchases and confusion.
Feel free to ask as many questions as you need to in order to be 100% confident that your goods will be secured in the correct packaging. Online companies that specialise in dangerous goods packaging should always be happy and prepared to be quizzed about exact specifications!
About the author – Kitiara Pascoe writes widely for blogs and websites about business and individual services. Her research for this piece including visiting www.air-sea.co.uk for the latest information on packaging requirements.
