Got a dangerous goods question?
You're in the right place. From sending an e-bike battery overseas to choosing the right DG packaging, we've answered some of the questions we hear most often.
E-bike & lithium batteries
Can I ship an e-bike battery within Australia or overseas?
Often, yes, but it depends on the battery's specifications, condition, destination and transport method. E-bike batteries are regulated dangerous goods and can't simply be sent as ordinary parcels.
Tell us the battery model, watt-hour rating, weight and where it's going. We can review the options. Request a battery shipping quote.
Can you help with a used lithium battery?
We can assess used batteries on a case-by-case basis. We'll need to know whether the battery is undamaged, functioning normally and has any history of overheating or faults. Damaged or defective batteries are subject to much stricter restrictions and may not be accepted.
What information do you need to quote for an e-bike battery?
The battery brand and model, watt-hour rating (Wh), weight, dimensions, condition, collection suburb or postcode and delivery destination. A photo of the battery label and any available UN 38.3 test summary or manufacturer documentation are helpful.
Can I send power banks, cordless tool batteries or spare batteries?
Possibly. The rules vary according to battery chemistry, watt-hour rating, whether batteries are packed alone or with equipment, and the transport mode. Spare lithium batteries often have different requirements from batteries installed in devices.
Do lithium batteries need special packaging?
Usually they need packaging that prevents short circuits, accidental activation, movement and damage. Some shipments also require UN specification packaging and specific marks, labels and documents. The exact requirements depend on the applicable packing instruction.
Do you arrange e-bike battery repacking?
We can help coordinate compliant packaging and repacking options, subject to the battery, location and service availability. Send us the battery details and we'll advise what can be arranged.
Shipping dangerous goods
What types of dangerous goods can you help with?
Common enquiries include lithium batteries, e-bike batteries, aerosols, perfumes, paints, flammable liquids, adhesives, solvents and industrial chemicals. Acceptance depends on the product classification, route, quantity and carrier.
Can you help ship dangerous goods from Australia to New Zealand?
Yes, we can review Australia to New Zealand enquiries and help coordinate suitable packaging, certification and transport arrangements where available. Provide the product details, collection location and destination so we can assess the shipment.
Can I send dangerous goods by normal courier?
Not automatically. Many ordinary courier services exclude dangerous goods or accept only certain products under specific conditions. Classification and carrier acceptance need to be checked before booking.
How much does dangerous goods shipping cost?
It depends on the goods, packaging, weight, dimensions, destination and transport method. Dangerous goods surcharges, declarations, repacking and collection may apply. Send us the details for an individual quote.
Can you collect dangerous goods from my address?
Collection may be available through our transport and service partners, depending on your location and the goods involved. Include your suburb and postcode in the enquiry.
Air & sea freight certification
What is a dangerous goods declaration?
It's a transport document used to declare relevant dangerous goods information, such as the UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, packing group where applicable, and quantity. The required document and format depend on the transport mode and shipment.
Can you prepare an IATA dangerous goods declaration?
We provide air freight dangerous goods certification assistance, including reviewing shipment information and preparing required documentation where appropriate. The goods and packaging must meet the applicable air transport requirements.
Can you help with IMDG sea freight documentation?
Yes, our sea freight certification service can assist with dangerous goods documentation and compliance checks for shipments moving by sea.
Do all dangerous goods shipments require a declaration?
No. Some products and quantities qualify for exceptions or simplified requirements. These vary by transport mode and classification, so the shipment needs to be assessed before deciding which documents are required.
DG packaging, boxes & labels
What is a 4GV fibreboard box?
A 4GV is a UN specification fibreboard outer packaging design intended for certain dangerous goods shipments when packed in accordance with its approval, instructions and applicable regulations. It isn't automatically suitable for every product. Explore our 4GV boxes.
Can I use any cardboard box for dangerous goods?
Not necessarily. Some shipments require tested UN specification packaging; others may permit strong outer packaging under specific provisions. The right option depends on the product and transport rules.
Where can I buy dangerous goods hazard class labels?
You can browse our dangerous goods class labels, handling labels and container labels directly through the Australian store.
What labels and marks does my shipment need?
Requirements can include hazard class labels, UN numbers, lithium battery marks, orientation arrows and other handling marks. It depends on the classification, package and transport mode. If you're unsure, ask us to review it.
Australian dangerous goods rules
What is the Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code?
The ADG Code sets out requirements for transporting dangerous goods by road and rail in Australia, as implemented through applicable legislation. Air and sea shipments follow separate international regulatory frameworks.
What's the difference between IATA, IMDG and ADG?
IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations are used for air transport, the IMDG Code governs dangerous goods carried by sea, and the ADG Code covers road and rail transport in Australia. Requirements can differ even for the same product.
What is a UN number?
A UN number is a four-digit identifier used for dangerous goods transport classification, such as UN 3480 for lithium ion batteries shipped on their own. The correct entry must be determined from the product and applicable regulations.
What is an SDS, and do I need one?
A Safety Data Sheet provides hazard and handling information about a substance or mixture. Section 14 often includes transport information. An SDS can help with classification, but may not be sufficient on its own, particularly for batteries and equipment.
Can you help my business with dangerous goods compliance?
Yes. We can discuss classification, packaging, documentation and practical transport procedures. Visit our consultation page or contact us to explain what your business needs.
No questions match your search. Try a different term, or contact us and we'll help.
Still not sure? Just ask.
Tell us what you're sending and where it's going. We'll help you work out the next step.