MARKING OF PACKAGES

OVERVIEW

In the transportation of dangerous goods, clear and durable marking on packages is crucial for safety and compliance. This page provides guidelines based on the ADR regulations regarding the required markings that must be present on packages containing dangerous goods.

KEY MARKING REQUIREMENTS

UN Number and Letters:

  • Every package containing dangerous goods must have the UN number, preceded by the letters “UN”, clearly and durably marked on each package.
  • The UN number and the letters “UN” must be at least 12 mm high. For smaller packages (30 litres capacity or less or 30 kg maximum net mass) and for cylinders (60 litres water capacity or less), the markings should be at least 6 mm high. For very small packages (5 litres or 5 kg or less), the markings should be of an appropriate size.
  • For unpackaged articles, the mark must be displayed on the article, its cradle, or on its handling, storage, or launching device.

Visibility and Durability:

  • All required markings must be readily visible and legible.
  • Markings must withstand open weather exposure without a substantial reduction in effectiveness.

Special Markings for Salvage Packagings:

  • Salvage packagings must be marked with the word “SALVAGE”, with lettering at least 12 mm high.

Marking on IBC and Large Packagings:

  • Intermediate bulk containers (more than 450 litres capacity) and large packagings should be marked on two opposite sides.
SPECIAL MARKING PROVISIONS

Environmentally Hazardous Substances:

  • Packages containing substances meeting the criteria of environmentally hazardous according to section 2.2.9.1.10 must be durably marked with the environmentally hazardous substance mark.

Lithium Battery Mark:

  • Packages containing lithium cells or batteries must be marked with the respective UN number and a specific lithium battery symbol.

Orientation Arrows:

  • Packages requiring specific orientation during transport must be marked with orientation arrows on two opposite vertical sides.
  • The arrows should be clearly visible and commensurate with the size of the package.

Overpacks:

  • Overpacks not allowing visibility of original marks must be marked with the word “OVERPACK” and replicate all applicable marks and labels as per ADR regulations.
  • Overpacks containing packages needing orientation markings must display orientation arrows unless original marks are visible.
CONTACT INFORMATION

For more information or specific inquiries related to package markings, please contact us: