What is a UN Number? A Straightforward Guide for Aussie Businesses
If you’re moving dangerous goods (DG) around Australia or overseas, you’ve probably come across the term UN Number. It might just look like a four digit code, but it’s actually one of the most important details when it comes to shipping, handling and compliance.
At DG Solutions Australia, we work with freight forwarders, exporters and everyday businesses across the country to make sure their goods are packed, documented and certified correctly. Here’s a simple breakdown of what a UN Number is, why it matters, and how it affects your shipments.
So, What’s a UN Number?
A UN Number is a four digit code given by the United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. Each number relates to a specific hazardous substance or group of substances.
For example:
- UN1203 = Petrol (Gasoline)
- UN3480 = Lithium ion batteries
- UN1993 = Flammable liquid, n.o.s. (not otherwise specified)
These codes are recognised worldwide, which means no matter if you’re sending something by air, sea, road or rail, everyone is on the same page about what’s inside and how it should be handled.
Why Should You Care About UN Numbers?
Getting the UN Number right is more than just ticking a box. It:
- Shows what hazard class the product falls into (flammable, toxic, corrosive, etc.)
- Dictates the correct packaging, labelling, and paperwork
- Keeps shipments moving smoothly through airports, ports, and depots
- Helps emergency services act fast and safely if something goes wrong in transit
If you put the wrong UN Number on your goods, your shipment could be delayed, rejected or even fined. That’s not just frustrating, it’s costly.
Where Do You Find the Right UN Number?
The correct UN Number comes straight from the official dangerous goods regulations:
- IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) – for air freight
- IMDG Code – for sea freight
- Australian Dangerous Goods Code (ADG Code) – for road and rail transport across Australia
You’ll also see the UN Number pop up on:
- Dangerous Goods Declarations (DGD)
- Shipping papers and air waybills
- Labels and package markings
Common UN Numbers Aussies Deal With
Here are a few that come up a lot in day-to-day freight:
- UN1090 – Acetone (used in solvents and manufacturing)
- UN1950 – Aerosols (everything from spray paint to deodorant cans)
- UN1170 – Ethanol solution (hand sanitiser, cleaning agents)
- UN3077 – Environmentally hazardous substances, solid, n.o.s. (agricultural and chemical products)
If your business ships products like these, you’ll need to make sure the UN Number is spot-on before they leave the warehouse.
A UN Number might just look like four digits, but it’s the key to keeping people safe and making sure your goods move without drama. Under IATA, IMDG and the ADG Code, it’s a legal requirement, not a nice-to-have.
Not sure which UN Number applies to your product? Give us a call at DG Solutions Australia and we’ll point you in the right direction.