# Dangerous Materials Sea Freight

*Last updated: 2026-06-23*

> Ensuring the safe and compliant carriage of hazardous substances and articles by sea is the purpose of the IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code), the internationally binding standard governing this transport mode.

Ensuring the safe and compliant carriage of hazardous substances and articles by sea is the purpose of the IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code), the internationally binding standard governing this transport mode. The Code classifies dangerous goods into classes—ranging from explosives (Class 1) and flammable liquids (Class 3) to radioactive materials (Class 7) and corrosives (Class 8)—and sets out packaging, labelling, documentation, and stowage segregation requirements for each. Shippers must submit an accurate Dangerous Goods Declaration; carriers are obliged to employ certified Dangerous Goods Officers and to observe segregation rules in the stowage plan. Errors in classification or declaration can result in cargo rejection, port surcharges, or significant liability in the event of an incident. Sea freight for dangerous goods is governed separately from air transport, where IATA DGR applies and generally imposes stricter quantity limits for many substance classes.

**Source:** [https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Safety/Pages/DangerousGoods-default.aspx](https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Safety/Pages/DangerousGoods-default.aspx)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Dangerous Materials Sea Freight |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 141 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-23 |
| Source | https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Safety/Pages/DangerousGoods-default.aspx |

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