Shipping Class 1 Explosives under ADR: Safe Guide for Logistics

Shipping explosives requires technical expertise and strict compliance with ADR regulations. Class 1, covering explosives, is one of the most regulated due to its risk potential—even small errors can lead to serious consequences.

The 6 ADR Subclasses: What They Mean

Class 1 is divided into six subclasses, each with specific risk profiles and transport conditions:

Subclass Description
1.1 Mass explosive hazard
1.2 Projection hazard, no mass explosion
1.3 Fire hazard with minor explosion risk
1.4 Minimal hazard
1.5 Very intensitive explosives
1.6 Extremely insensitive articles

Choosing the Right UN-Approved Container

When shipping explosives, container selection is critical:

UN-approved packaging by explosive type
Compatible materials
Internal secondary packaging if required
Impact protections, thermal insulation, pressure valves

OVERPACK® provides certified containers for urgent and intercontinental shipments, made with antiexplosive and reusable materials.

Required UN Certification Tests

Containers must pass these UN standard tests:

Drop test
Stacking test
Leakproof test (if applicable)

Labels and Documentation: Don’t Miss the Details

A compliant shipment must include:

Clearly visible CLASS 1 hazard labels
Proper UN number
ADR/IMDG/IATA documentation
MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
Proof of container certification
Export/import paperwork

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using non-certified containers
Incomplete or missing labels
Missing MSDS
Incompatible materials
Exceeding ADR load limits

The OVERPACK® Advantage

Dedicated technical advisor
Stock-ready UN-certified containers
Support for land, sea, air, military transport
Complete regulatory assistance (ADR/IMDG/IATA)