Certified vs Non-Certified Packaging: When and Why to Use Them

Approved and Non-Approved Packaging: When to Use Them and Why

The transportation of goods, both hazardous and non-hazardous, requires careful selection of packaging. Approved packaging, certified by the United Nations (UN), is essential for the safe transport of dangerous goods, but it is not always necessary. This article explores the differences between approved and non-approved packaging, explaining when it is essential to use the former and when standard packaging can be used.

What is Approved Packaging?

UN-approved packaging is specifically designed, tested, and certified for the safe transportation of dangerous goods by road, sea, rail, or air. These types of packaging must ensure the safety of people, animals, property, and the environment by containing any potential leaks or exposures in case of compromise during transit.

How to Recognize Approved Packaging?
Approved packaging displays a UN symbol, followed by codes that identify the packaging type, material, hazard level (Packaging Group I, II, III), and other characteristics.

Approval Process
To obtain UN certification, packaging must undergo rigorous testing, such as drop tests, weight stacking tests, leak tests, and vibration tests. These tests simulate real-world transportation conditions and must demonstrate that the packaging can withstand impacts, pressure, and extreme temperatures.

When to Use Approved Packaging?
Approved packaging is mandatory for transporting dangerous goods—defined as items or substances that can pose risks to health, safety, property, or the environment. Examples include:

Corrosive chemicals
Flammable liquids (e.g., fuels)
Toxic or radioactive materials
Aerosols or lithium batteries

Relevant Regulations
The regulations governing the use of approved packaging include ADR (road transport), RID (rail transport), IMDG Code (maritime transport), and ICAO/IATA instructions (air transport). These regulations vary based on the mode of transport and include:

Classification of the goods
Characteristics and required tests for the packaging
Required travel documents and labels

When Approved Packaging is Not Necessary
Not all goods require approved packaging. Here are the main cases when non-approved packaging can be used:

Non-Hazardous Goods
Products that do not pose a significant risk to health, safety, or the environment, such as:
Food products
Household items
Non-combustible solid materials
Limited Quantities (LQ)
Some hazardous goods can be transported in limited quantities without approved packaging, as long as specific regulations are followed. Examples include:

Small packages of solvents or paints
Perfumes and aerosols
This approach is allowed because the reduced quantities lower the overall risk.
Exempted Goods Under Special Provisions
Some hazardous materials have specific exemptions, such as diagnostic instruments or devices containing small quantities of dangerous substances.

Private or Internal Transport
In some cases, internal company transport or personal use does not require approved packaging, as long as the goods are adequately protected.

Key Differences Between Approved and Non-Approved Packaging



Tips for Choosing Packaging
Classify the Goods: Verify whether the goods are considered hazardous according to ADR, RID, IMDG, or ICAO/IATA regulations.
Consult the Regulations: Ensure that you follow the applicable rules for the chosen transport method.
Evaluate Quantity and Destination: For limited quantity or exempted goods, standard packaging may suffice.
Consult Experts: If transporting dangerous goods, collaborate with certified companies to ensure compliance.

Conclusion
The use of approved packaging is crucial for ensuring safety in the transportation of hazardous goods, protecting people, animals, and the environment. However, for non-hazardous goods or in special cases, non-approved packaging can be used, reducing costs without compromising safety. Understanding when to use approved packaging is key to complying with regulations and transporting goods safely and efficiently.