GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 24, 2026
Hazardous Cargo
Freight forwarders, carriers, and customs authorities classify substances and articles as hazardous cargo when their chemical or physical properties create a verifiable risk to people, the environment, or property during transport.
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Source: https://unece.org/transport/dangerous-goods
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Definition & Explanation
Freight forwarders, carriers, and customs authorities classify substances and articles as hazardous cargo when their chemical or physical properties create a verifiable risk to people, the environment, or property during transport. Classification follows the nine UN hazard classes – from explosives (Class 1) to miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles (Class 9) – governing packaging specifications, labelling requirements, and permissible modes of transport. Applicable regulations differ by transport mode: ADR covers road, RID covers rail, the IMDG Code governs sea transport, and IATA-DGR applies to air freight. In practice, handling hazardous cargo requires certified personnel, mandatory shipping documents such as the dangerous goods declaration, and periodic compliance audits conducted by appointed dangerous goods safety advisers.
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