The Critical Importance of Declaring Dangerous Goods Correctly

The movement of goods by air, sea, road, and rail plays a vital role in global supply chains. However, when cargo is classified as dangerous goods (DG), the requirements for safe handling and transport become significantly more stringent. Correctly declaring dangerous goods is not only a legal requirement but also essential for the safety of people, cargo, and infrastructure.

Why Accurate Declarations Matter

Dangerous goods include items such as chemicals, batteries, flammable liquids, aerosols, and gases. While many of these products are part of everyday trade, their transportation requires strict compliance with international regulations such as the IMDG Code, IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, and local laws.

Accurate declaration ensures:

• Safety of crew and handlers – Properly labelled cargo allows staff to use the right equipment, storage conditions, and emergency procedures.

• Protection of the supply chain – Misdeclared or undeclared DG can cause fires, leaks, or explosions, endangering other shipments.

• Compliance with international law – Airlines, shipping lines, and customs authorities require precise documentation to prevent delays and penalties.

It is essential that emergency contact details are provided at the time of booking. This includes a 24/7 emergency contact number for both the origin and destination of the shipment.

The listed emergency contact must:

• Be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week throughout the cargo’s transit.
• Be familiar with the specific hazards of the DG being shipped.
• Have immediate access to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
• Be able to provide prompt, actionable technical advice in English.

Please note that any port penalties, operational disruptions, or damages resulting from an unreachable or unqualified emergency contact may be charged directly to the cargo owner.

Consequences of Misdeclaration

Failing to declare dangerous goods correctly can have severe consequences, including:

• Delays and rejections – Carriers may refuse cargo or detain shipments if documentation is incomplete or incorrect.

• Financial penalties – Heavy fines can be imposed by regulatory authorities, sometimes amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

• Reputational damage – A single incident can lead to loss of trust with customers, partners, and carriers.

• Liability for damages – If misdeclared goods cause harm to vessels, aircraft, or personnel, the shipper can be held legally responsible.

• Criminal charges – In severe cases, individuals or businesses may face prosecution.

Best Practices for Shippers and Forwarders

• Always ensure your staff are trained and certified in handling and declaring dangerous goods.

• Provide complete and accurate documentation, including Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and packing declarations.

• Work closely with your freight forwarder to confirm packaging, labelling, and documentation meet the required standards.

• Never assume that a product is “safe” just because it’s commonly used—many everyday items, like lithium batteries, fall under DG regulations.

Final Word

Declaring dangerous goods correctly is not just an administrative requirement—it’s a matter of safety, compliance, and responsibility. By ensuring accurate and transparent declarations, businesses protect their staff, partners, and customers while keeping global supply chains moving smoothly.