What Is a Proper Shipping Name (PSN)?

What Is a Proper Shipping Name (PSN)?

When handling dangerous goods shipments, you may see a field on customs or shipping documents labeled "Proper Shipping Name (PSN)".

In IMDG dangerous goods transport, this technical term plays a crucial role in safety and compliance.

 

Proper Shipping Name (PSN), often translated as "正式運送名稱" in Chinese, is the standardized name used internationally to describe a dangerous good.

 

A correct PSN must:

• Clearly reflect the hazardous properties of the cargo (e.g. flammable, toxic, corrosive, oxidizing)
• Exactly match the official name listed in the IMDG Code or IATA DGR
• Be used consistently on all transport documents, labels, and package markings

Importantly, the PSN cannot be replaced by casual abbreviations, trade names, or brand names.

 

Example: Trade Name vs Proper Shipping Name (PSN)

Trade / Product Name	Proper Shipping Name (PSN)
酒精 (alcohol)	Ethanol or Ethanol solution
漂白水 (bleach)	Hypochlorite solution
電動工具電池	Lithium ion batteries

Even if you use a different commercial name in daily business, you must still use the official PSN for dangerous goods transport.

 

Why Is the Proper Shipping Name (PSN) So Important?

1. A Global Standard for Transport Communication

The PSN allows:

• Carriers, ports, and shipping lines in different countries
• Customs and inspection authorities
• Emergency responders

to understand the nature of the cargo using a unified, standard terminology, reducing misunderstandings and misjudgment of risk.

 

2. Basis for UN Number and Classification

Each UN number in dangerous goods regulations is linked to one or more Proper Shipping Names (PSN).

Only by selecting the correct PSN can you correctly determine:

• Hazard class and division
• Packing group
• Required packaging performance level
• Applicable marks, labels, and placards
• Segregation and stowage rules on vessels and in terminals

An incorrect PSN can lead to completely wrong handling, stowage, and emergency measures.

 

3. Mandatory on Documents and Markings

The PSN must appear clearly and accurately on at least the following:

• Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)
• Bill of Lading and packing list
• Container exterior markings and package labels

If the PSN is missing, incomplete, or incorrect, your cargo may be:

• Refused by the shipping line or terminal
• Delayed in customs clearance
• Subject to regulatory penalties

 

4. Critical for Emergency Response

If an incident occurs during transport (fire, leakage, collision, etc.), the PSN is one of the first pieces of information used by:

• Fire brigades
• Port emergency teams
• Environmental and rescue agencies

to:

• Identify what substance is involved
• Determine which response procedures, extinguishing agents, and protective equipment are appropriate
• Avoid escalation of risks to people and the environment

A precise PSN can literally save time and save lives.

 

How Do I Know Which Proper Shipping Name (PSN) to Use?

Choosing the correct PSN depends on real, technical information about your cargo, such as:

• Chemical composition and main active ingredients
• Physical and chemical properties (flammability, toxicity, corrosiveness, oxidizing capability, etc.)
• Concentration or mixture ratio
• Physical state (solid, liquid, gas)

Then, based on the IMDG Code or IATA DGR dangerous goods lists, you identify the correct:

• UN number
• Proper Shipping Name (PSN)
• Associated class, packing group, and special provisions

Example Scenarios

• For an alcohol solution:
  • If the ethanol concentration is above 24%, the PSN is "Ethanol solution", UN number UN 1170.
• For a cleaning agent with corrosive components:
  • Depending on the main ingredient, it may be classified under a generic PSN such as "Corrosive liquid, n.o.s.", with the appropriate UN number and class.

Because details matter, self-assuming a PSN without checking the regulations can be very risky.

 

How WuSin Transportations Co., LTD. Supports Correct Use of PSN

WuSin Transportations Co., LTD. provides comprehensive dangerous goods transport consulting services, including:

1. Determining Whether Cargo Is Classified as Dangerous Goods

• Based on product data sheets, SDS, and composition information.

2. Selecting the Correct PSN and UN Number

• Cross-checking with IMDG / IATA dangerous goods lists.

3. Assisting with Preparation and Review of Transport Documents

• Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)
• Bills of lading and packing lists
• Relevant declarations for ports and carriers

4. Ensuring Labels, Packaging, and Declarations Are Fully Compliant

• Container labels and placards
• Package markings and hazard labels
• Alignment of documents, PSN, UN number, and actual cargo

Whether you are new to dangerous goods transport or handling complex export cases, WuSin Transportations Co., LTD. can design a safe and compliant logistics solution tailored to your needs.

 

Conclusion: Using the Proper Shipping Name (PSN) Correctly Makes Dangerous Goods Transport Safer

In IMDG dangerous goods transport, any incorrect information can lead to:

• Delays
• Customs or carrier issues
• Safety incidents

Among all data elements, the accuracy of the Proper Shipping Name (PSN) is the first critical step to keeping the entire process correct and under control.

 

If you have any questions about:

• Determining the correct PSN
• Classifying your cargo
• Preparing and declaring dangerous goods documents

you are welcome to contact WuSin Transportations Co., LTD.

 

With professionalism and efficiency, we help you manage every detail, ensuring your dangerous goods transport is safer, smoother, and worry-free.