GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 23, 2026

Class IV Dangerous Goods

Safely transporting fire-related hazards depends on correctly identifying which of the three divisions within Class 4 applies.

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Last updated: 23 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://unece.org/transport/dangerous-goods/un-model-regulations-rev-23

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Logistics Concept

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Definition & Explanation

Safely transporting fire-related hazards depends on correctly identifying which of the three divisions within Class 4 applies. Division 4.1 covers flammable solids, self-reactive substances, and desensitized explosives; Division 4.2 covers spontaneously combustible substances capable of igniting in air without an external ignition source; Division 4.3 covers substances that emit flammable gases on contact with water. Sulfur, white phosphorus, and certain metal powders are among the most common examples. Correct division identification matters enormously in practice: labeling requirements, packing group assignment, and transport conditions under ADR, the IMDG Code, and IATA-DGR differ substantially across the three divisions. Misclassification between divisions remains one of the most frequent declaration errors encountered in dangerous goods logistics.

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Class IV Dangerous Goods

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Related Terms

Packing Group

Subclassification of dangerous goods classes

International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code Compliance

Gasoline Hazardous Goods Transport

Hazardous Freight Labeling and Tracking Systems

UN Number

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