Since sensitive goods (such as dangerous goods, lithium batteries, biological products, and high-value electronics) are subject to strict regulations during cross-border transportation, compliant packaging and labeling are crucial for ensuring safe transportation and smooth customs clearance. This guide covers internationally recognized packaging and labeling standards to help companies mitigate transportation risks.
I. Classification of Sensitive Goods and Applicable Standards
Different categories of sensitive goods are subject to different international standards. The main classifications are as follows:
Cargo Type Applicable International Standards Regulatory Agency
Hazardous Chemicals UN Recommendations (United Nations standards), ADR/RID (EU road/rail transport) UN, IMO, DOT (US)
Lithium Batteries UN38.3, IATA DGR (air transport), IMDG (sea transport) IATA, ICAO, IMO
Biological Products/Pharmaceuticals WHO-GMP, IATA Perishable Cargo Regulations WHO, IATA
High-Value Electronics ISTA (International Safe Transit Association standards) ISTA, FedEx/DHL internal standards
Military Supplies/Dual-Use Items ITAR (US), Wassenaar Arrangement BIS (US), EU Export Controls
II. General Packaging Standards
- United Nations UN Packaging Standards (applicable to dangerous goods)
UN-certified packaging: must pass drop, stacking, and airtightness tests and be marked with a “UN+ number” (e.g., UN4G/X1.4/100/23/USA).
Packaging Class:
Class I (high risk, such as explosives) → Most stringent standards
Class II (medium risk, such as lithium batteries) → Medium standards
Class III (low risk, such as general chemicals) → Basic standards
- Lithium Battery Packaging Requirements (IATA DGR/IMDG)
Individual Insulation: Prevent short circuits (e.g., electrode tape, separate inner packaging).
Outer Carton Labeling: Must be labeled “UN3480” (lithium-ion batteries) or “UN3090” (lithium metal batteries).
Weight Limit: Air freight per piece ≤ 35kg; ocean freight must comply with container loading regulations.
- Biological Products/Cold Chain Cargo Packaging
Temperature Control: Use dry ice (UN1845) or refrigerated containers (with a temperature range marked, such as 2-8°C).
Leakage Prevention: Double packaging + absorbent material (compliant with IATA PI650).
- Shockproof Packaging for High-Value Electronic Products
ISTA 3A Standard: Simulated Transport Environment Testing (Vibration, Drop).
Anti-Static Packaging: ESD Shielding Bags (Suitable for Chips and Precision Instruments).
III. Labeling and Marking Requirements
- Dangerous Goods Label (GHS Standard)
Pictograms: e.g., Flame (Flammable), Skull and Crossbones (Toxic), Corrosive (Corrosive).
UN Number: e.g., UN1263 (Alcohol), UN3480 (Lithium Batteries).
Shipping Name: e.g., “FLAMMABLE LIQUID, N.O.S.”
- Lithium Battery Label
Lithium Battery Label: White text on a black background, size ≥ 10 x 10 cm.
Cargo Aircraft Only: Required for air transport of lithium metal batteries.
- Special Storage Requirements Labels
“This Side Up” (Fragile)
“Keep Dry” (Moisture-Proof)
“Temperature Sensitive” (Temperature-Controlled Goods)
- Export Control Labels (e.g., ITAR/EAR)
“EAR99” (U.S. Export Control Classification)
“ITAR Controlled” (Defense-Related Items)
IV. Country Differences and Notes
- United States (DOT/PHMSA)
Hazardous goods must comply with 49 CFR regulations, and labels must be in English.
Lithium battery shipments require a MSDS (SDS) and Test Summary (UN38.3).
- European Union (ADR/CLP)
Chemicals require a CLP label (EU GHS standard).
Lithium battery shipments require an EU Declaration of Conformity.
- China (GB Standard)
Dangerous goods packaging requires GB/T 19001 certification.
Lithium battery exports require a “Certificate of Use of Dangerous Goods Transport Packaging for Export” (customs requirement).
V. Common Mistakes and Compliance Recommendations
❌ Mistake 1: Using non-UN certified packaging to transport dangerous goods → May result in customs detention.
✅ Solution: Purchase UN certified packaging (e.g., UN1A1/X1.4).
❌ Mistake 2: Lithium batteries not labeled “Cargo Only” → Airline rejection.
✅ Solution: Apply labels according to the latest IATA DGR 64 requirements.
❌ Mistake 3: Failure to record temperature data for temperature-controlled shipments → Disputes after arrival cannot be traced.
✅ Solution: Use temperature-controlled labels with data logging (e.g., ELPRO).
VI. Summary
Key Points: Operational Requirements
Packaging Standards: UN Certification (Dangerous Goods), ISTA (Electronics), IATA DGR (Lithium Batteries)
Labeling Requirements: GHS pictograms, UN number, lithium battery-specific marking, temperature control label
Country Differences: US (49 CFR), EU (ADR), China (GB Standard)
Compliance Recommendations: Pre-test packaging, use certified materials, and train logistics teams
Tip: Before shipping sensitive goods, it is recommended to consult a professional logistics company or a third-party testing agency (such as SGS or BV) for a compliance audit.