Dangerous Goods Import Guide

When This Applies

This guide applies to importing dangerous goods classified under the IMDG Code (sea) or IATA DGR (air). This includes chemicals, flammable liquids, gases, oxidisers, toxic substances, corrosives, and lithium batteries. Dangerous goods imports require special packaging, labelling, documentation, and regulatory approvals.

Documents Needed

• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
• Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) for air or sea transport
• Emergency response information and transport emergency card (TREM card)
• UN specification packaging certificate
• PESO approval for petroleum products, explosives, and compressed gases
• Commercial Invoice and Packing List with proper shipping name, UN number, and hazard class
• IEC and GSTIN

Common Mistakes

• Incorrect UN number or shipping name on the Dangerous Goods Declaration
• Using non-UN specification packaging — carriers and customs may question or reject the shipment
• Missing PESO approval for regulated chemicals and gases
• Incorrect hazard labels or missing subsidiary risk labels
• Not declaring limited quantities correctly, leading to full dangerous goods charges

Estimated Timeline and Process

Regulatory approval (2–6 weeks): Obtain PESO or other approvals depending on the chemical category.

Freight booking (variable): Not all carriers accept all hazard classes. Booking may take longer than standard cargo.

Customs clearance (3–7 days): Extended document check, possible inspection by hazardous materials officer, duty payment, and release.

How Sea Air Cargo Systems Can Help

We are licensed to handle dangerous goods imports by air and sea. Our DG-certified team validates MSDS, prepares DGDs, arranges UN-approved packaging, and coordinates with PESO and customs. Contact us for dangerous goods import support.

Pre-Import Checklist

• Classify the goods under the correct UN number and hazard class (Class 1–9)
• Confirm PESO approval is obtained for flammable liquids, gases, and certain chemicals
• Verify packaging meets UN specifications and bears the UN packaging mark
• Obtain a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) in English
• Ensure the transport document (DGN) is prepared by a DG-certified freight forwarder

Documents Required for DG Imports

• PESO import approval (if applicable)
• UN-certified packaging certificate
• MSDS and emergency response guide
• Dangerous Goods Note or Shipper's Declaration
• Insurance covering hazardous cargo

Cost Factors to Plan For

Dangerous goods imports cost more due to specialised packaging, DG-certified freight, higher insurance premiums, and possible storage in isolated customs yards. PESO approval can take 4–12 weeks. Plan these costs into your landed cost. Use our Landing Cost Calculator to estimate.

Common Delays and How to Avoid Them

• Incorrect UN classification — this affects packaging, labelling, and transport rules
• Non-UN packaging — customs and carriers will refuse the shipment
• Missing PESO approval — required for many chemicals and petroleum products
• Inadequate emergency response information — needed for customs and port safety officers

When to Contact a CHA

Dangerous goods clearance requires specialised knowledge. A CHA with DG experience can coordinate PESO, customs, and port safety approvals. Contact Sea Air Cargo Systems for dangerous goods import support.

Frequently Asked Questions