01Why Chemical industry needs specialised logistics
Chemical transport spans non-hazardous intermediates to highly dangerous substances. Compliance with ADR/RID/IMDG/IATA and REACH is mandatory, often with specialised equipment (ISO tanks, silo wagons).
Requirements differ significantly from standard LCL logistics: different documents, different equipment, different safety standards.
02Typical goods and trade flows
Main commodities: Acids, bases, solvents, plastic granulates, catalysts, specialty chemicals.
Flows usually go from a small number of production and raw-material sources to global distribution centres. Transit time, frequency and capacity booking are therefore critical.
03Equipment and packaging
ISO tanks, IBCs, drums (UN-approved), silos, big bags, specialised reefers for temperature-sensitive substances.
Equipment choice directly affects transport cost, CO₂ footprint and damage rate. Recommendation: agree an equipment concept with the carrier before requesting the first quote.
04Compliance and regulatory framework
Key frameworks: ADR, RID, IMDG, IATA DGR, REACH, CLP Regulation, Biocidal Products Regulation, Seveso III.
Beyond those, industry-specific certificates and audits (e.g. supplier audits, AEO, TAPA) are typically prerequisites for market access.
Frequently asked questions
Which Incoterm should I use for Chemical industry?
In practice, FCA oder CIP is the industry default. The final choice depends on country, sales model and tax situation — always have the term reviewed by customs and tax advisers before contract.
Which regulations are most critical?
The frameworks named above — particularly ADR, RID — should be embedded in your SOPs and audit programme.