What Are Excepted Quantities Dangerous Goods in Australia?
For very small amounts of hazardous substances, the Excepted Quantities (EQ) provisions allow shipments to move with even fewer requirements than Limited Quantities. If your business ships small vials, diagnostic samples or promotional products, understanding EQ rules under the IATA DGR, IMDG Code and ADG Code is essential. DG Solutions Australia works with businesses across Australia to ensure EQ shipments are packaged and labelled correctly.
What Are Excepted Quantities?
- Apply to tiny amounts of dangerous goods.
- Inner packagings often limited to just a few millilitres or grams.
- Shipments carry the Excepted Quantity mark instead of full hazard labels.
Key Differences Between Limited and Excepted Quantities
- Size threshold: EQ has smaller limits.
- Scope: EQ covers fewer substances.
- Marking: EQ requires a specific mark, not the Limited Quantity diamond.
Australian Context
Under the ADG Code and international rules:
- EQ packages must include inner, intermediate and strong outer packaging.
- Each package must survive a drop test.
- Exclusions apply for explosives, toxic gases and other high-risk substances.
Business Benefits of EQ Shipping
- No full Dangerous Goods Declaration required.
- Lower packaging and compliance costs.
- Perfect for industries handling tiny chemical samples, lab testing products or consumer trial kits.
The Excepted Quantities system is a great way for Australian businesses to move small dangerous goods shipments legally and efficiently. At DG Solutions Australia, we provide expert consultation for EQ shipments to keep your operations compliant.