Shipping dangerous goods by air requires strict compliance with international regulations to ensure safety throughout the transportation process. One of the most critical documents for shipping hazardous materials is the Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD). This document provides detailed information about the contents, classification, and handling of the dangerous goods to ensure safe transport by air.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essential steps for submitting a DGD for air freight, explaining its importance, how to fill it out, and tips for ensuring compliance with international air transport regulations.
What is a Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)?
A Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) is a legally required document for air freight shipments of hazardous materials. It outlines the nature of the dangerous goods, including their classification, packaging, and any special handling instructions. The declaration ensures that all parties involved, including the airline, ground handling staff, and customs authorities, are aware of the potential risks and how to manage them.
The DGD must be completed by the shipper (or a trained representative) and provided to the airline and logistics provider before the shipment can be accepted.
Why is a DGD Important?
The DGD is crucial for maintaining safety in air transport. Hazardous materials, if not properly handled, can pose serious risks to people, cargo, and aircraft. By submitting a DGD, you ensure that your shipment is correctly classified and that everyone involved in the transportation process is aware of the associated hazards.
Failing to submit an accurate DGD can result in fines, delays, or even rejection of the shipment, particularly when shipping via air freight services from China to Russia or China to the USA, where strict compliance with IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations is enforced.
Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting a Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) for Air Freight
1. Classify the Dangerous Goods
Before submitting a DGD, you must first classify the goods according to the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). Each dangerous good is assigned a UN number (United Nations number) that identifies its hazard class. The nine hazard classes include:
- Class 1: Explosives
- Class 2: Gases
- Class 3: Flammable liquids
- Class 4: Flammable solids
- Class 5: Oxidizing substances
- Class 6: Toxic and infectious substances
- Class 7: Radioactive materials
- Class 8: Corrosive substances
- Class 9: Miscellaneous dangerous goods
Make sure you correctly identify the UN number and the proper shipping name (PSN) of the hazardous material.
2. Ensure Proper Packaging and Labeling
Once you’ve classified the dangerous goods, you must package them according to IATA standards. Each class of hazardous material requires specific packaging designed to minimize risks during air transport. The packaging must be strong enough to withstand the conditions of air travel, such as changes in pressure and temperature.
Additionally, the package must be clearly labeled with the appropriate hazard symbols, UN number, and handling instructions. Proper labeling is essential for the safe transport of dangerous goods.
3. Complete the DGD Form
The DGD form must be filled out accurately, following IATA guidelines. Here’s what you need to include:
- Shipper’s Information: Your company name and contact details.
- Consignee’s Information: The name and contact information of the recipient.
- Description of the Goods: This includes the UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, and packing group (I, II, or III), which indicates the level of danger.
- Net Quantity: The total quantity of dangerous goods being shipped.
- Packing Instructions: Specific packing instructions as per IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations.
- Emergency Contact: Provide an emergency contact number in case any issues arise during transport.
The DGD must be signed by a trained individual who is certified to handle dangerous goods. Make sure to double-check the details before submitting the form to avoid any mistakes.
4. Submit the DGD to the Airline
Once the DGD form is completed and signed, submit it to the airline along with your other shipping documents, such as the Air Waybill (AWB). The airline will review the DGD to ensure that all information is correct and that the shipment complies with IATA regulations.
For air freight shipments from China to Russia or China to the USA, make sure to submit the DGD well in advance of the flight to prevent any delays.
5. Retain Copies of the DGD
It’s important to retain copies of the DGD for your records. Under IATA regulations, both the shipper and the airline must keep copies of the DGD for a minimum of two years. Keeping these records ensures that you can provide proof of compliance if required.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting a DGD
Incorrect Classification: Misclassifying dangerous goods can result in serious safety risks and delays. Always verify the correct UN number and hazard class for your goods.
Improper Packaging or Labeling: Failure to use the right packaging or labels can lead to the shipment being rejected. Ensure your packaging and labeling meet IATA standards.
Missing or Incomplete Information: Incomplete DGDs can cause delays or fines. Double-check that all required fields are filled out and that the document is signed by a trained individual.
Not Retaining Copies: Always keep a copy of the DGD for your records, as it may be requested during an audit.
Air Freight Services for Dangerous Goods from China to Russia and the USA
We offer specialized air freight services for dangerous goods from China to both Russia and the USA, ensuring full compliance with IATA regulations. Our services include:
- DGD preparation and submission: We assist in filling out and submitting the DGD accurately.
- Packaging and labeling: Our team ensures your dangerous goods are properly packaged and labeled according to IATA standards.
- Customs clearance: We handle customs procedures, ensuring your shipment clears smoothly at both the departure and destination points.
With our expertise in dangerous goods logistics, you can trust us to safely and efficiently transport your hazardous materials to their destination.
We Can Assist with DGD Submission
Submitting a DGD requires specialized knowledge of dangerous goods regulations. Our team of experts is fully trained and certified to handle the preparation and submission of DGDs for air freight. We ensure that all necessary documents are correctly filled out, properly submitted, and in compliance with international regulations. Whether you’re shipping dangerous goods from China to Russia or China to the USA, we provide complete support to streamline the process.
Submitting a Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) is a critical step when shipping hazardous materials by air. Following the steps outlined in this guide will help ensure that your DGD is accurate and that your shipment complies with IATA regulations. Whether you’re shipping from China to Russia or the USA, we are here to assist with DGD preparation, packaging, and air freight services.
Contact us today for help with your dangerous goods shipments and to ensure that your DGD submission is seamless and compliant.
