What Is a UN Number in Dangerous Goods Transport?

What Is a UN Number?

In global container shipping—especially in the field of dangerous goods transport—the UN Number is an indispensable identifier.

It is more than just a set of digits: it is a common language for:

• Ensuring transport safety
• Enabling compliant declarations
• Supporting correct classification and handling

If you are dealing with export of chemicals, batteries, gases, liquids or other potentially hazardous products, understanding what a UN Number is becomes a crucial first step before arranging IMDG dangerous goods transport.

 

Definition: What Is a UN Number?

A UN Number (United Nations Number) is a four-digit code assigned by a specialized body under the United Nations Economic and Social Council.

It is used to identify substances and articles classified as dangerous goods during transport.

 

For each hazardous chemical or product, there is a corresponding four-digit UN Number, which serves as a universal identifier in international logistics.

 

This coding system is widely used in:

• IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code)
• IATA DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations for air transport)
• National regulations and port/customs clearance procedures worldwide

 

Common Examples of UN Numbers

Dangerous Goods Name	UN Number	Classification
Gasoline	UN 1203	Flammable liquid (Class 3)
Compressed hydrogen gas	UN 1049	Flammable gas (Class 2.1)
Lithium ion batteries	UN 3480	Miscellaneous dangerous substances (Class 9)
Industrial bleach	UN 1791	Corrosive substance (Class 8)
Ammonium nitrate	UN 1942	Oxidizing solid (Class 5.1)

For each UN Number, the regulations also define:

• Packaging method and packing group requirements
• Which hazard labels and marks must be applied
• Applicable transport restrictions and stowage/segregation rules

Why Are UN Numbers So Important in Dangerous Goods Transport?

1. Clear Hazard Identification and Risk Awareness

 

Using UN Numbers, carriers, warehouse operators, customs brokers, and shipping lines can quickly understand the hazard characteristics of a product and handle it correctly according to regulations.

 

2. Basis for Packaging, Marking, and Stowage Rules

Each UN Number is linked to specific:

• Packing groups (I, II, III)
• Performance requirements for packaging
• Mandatory hazard labels, marks, and placards
• Stowage and segregation rules on vessels and in terminals

If the UN Number is wrong, packaging, labeling, and loading rules can also be wrong—leading to rejections, fines, or safety incidents.

 

3. Core Data for Customs and Transport Declarations

The UN Number must be entered accurately on:

• Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)
• Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS)
• Bill of lading and packing list

 

Errors in the UN Number may result in:

• Failed customs or port declarations
• Delays, storage charges, or return of the shipment
• Potential legal and compliance liabilities

 

4. Key Reference for Emergency Response

In the event of an accident, the UN Number enables emergency responders to:

• Quickly identify what substance is involved
• Look up the correct response measures, extinguishing agents, and protective equipment
• Reduce risk and damage to people, property, and the environment

In short, the UN Number provides structured, standardized guidance in critical moments.

 

How WuSin Transportations Co., LTD. Helps You Use UN Numbers Correctly

With extensive practical experience in dangerous goods transport,

WuSin Transportations Co., LTD. can assist you to:

• Determine whether a product is classified as dangerous goods and identify the correct UN Number
• Provide packaging recommendations that comply with the IMDG Code
• Prepare and review dangerous goods declarations and related documents, helping avoid clearance delays
• Plan transport and container stowage methods to reduce risk and optimize cost

 

Reminder: Different Product Names May Share the Same UN Number

Products with similar compositions may share the same UN Number, while different packaging forms or concentrations can lead to different packing groups or restrictions.

 

Before declaring your goods, you should always:

• Confirm the complete composition and properties
• Verify the intended mode of transport and packaging

This helps avoid misclassification and non-compliance.

 

Conclusion: The UN Number Is the Language of Dangerous Goods Transport—Accuracy Equals Safety

In today's increasingly complex global logistics environment, correct use of UN Numbers is a basic skill for any company involved in IMDG dangerous goods transport.

 

WuSin Transportations Co., LTD. is committed to helping you manage every detail with the highest professional standards, ensuring your cargo is:

• Safe
• Compliant
• Delivered on time to destinations around the world

If you have questions about UN Numbers or need dedicated support for dangerous goods transport,

please contact WuSin Transportations Co., LTD. for one-on-one professional assistance.