SHIPPING AND HANDLING DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES
ANTWERP PROCEDURE FOR ACCEPTING DANGEROUS SHIPMENTS
Prior to shipping (and accepting) a booking with dangerous substances the Antwerp import
department should be asked whether the dangerous substances can be accepted in Antwerp.
When asking this confirmation, following documents are required:
 A dangerous goods declaration
 A material safety data sheet
Without confirmation from the Antwerp import department no dangerous substances can be
shipped to Antwerp!
BASIC INFORMATION REGARDING THE IMDG CODE
1) Application of present version of the IMDG Code.
In the preambule of the IMDG Code, under point 12quinquies, is said: “At its eighty-seventh
session in May 2010, the MSC adopted Amendment 35 to the mandatory IMDG Code which
will enter into force on 1 January 2012 without any transitional period. However, in
accordance with resolution MSC.294(84), Governments are encouraged to apply this
Amendment in whole or part on a voluntary basis from 1 January 2011.”
Therefore the present mandatory version of the IMDG Code, Amendment 35-10, is the only
version that can be applied since 1 January 2011.
2) Marking and labelling of packages including IBC’s
In short, all packages ready for maritime shipment have to be marked and labelled as
followed:
1) When the shipment is not in limited quantities:
 the UN number of the substance
 the proper shipping name of the substance and, if applicable, the technical name
 the class label and, if applicable, the labels of the subsidiary risk (subclasses) and
marine pollutant label
2) When the shipment is in limited quantities:
 a diamond of which the centre area remains white, top and bottom portions black
3) When using an overpack or unit load and the marks and labels are not visible from the
outside:
 All the above mentioned applicable labels (see point 1 or 2)
 A label showing the word “OVERPACK”
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For your info, you’ll find hereunder the relevant articles of the IMDG Code:
5.2.1
Marking of packages including IBCs
5.2.1.1 Unless provided otherwise in this Code, the Proper Shipping Name for the dangerous goods as
determined in accordance with 3.1.2 and the corresponding UN Number, preceded by the letters "UN",
shall be displayed on each package. In the case of unpackaged articles, the marking shall be displayed
on the article, on its cradle or on its handling, storage or launching device. For goods of Division 1.4,
compatibility group S, the division and compatibility group letter shall also be marked unless the label
for 1.4S is displayed. A typical package marking is:
CORROSIVE LIQUID, ACIDIC, ORGANIC, N.O.S. (caprylyl chloride) UN 3265.
5.2.1.2 All package markings required by 5.2.1.1:
.1
Shall be readily visible and legible;
.2
Shall be such that this information will still be identifiable on packages surviving at least three
month's immersion in the sea. In considering suitable marking methods, account shall be taken
of the durability of the packaging materials used and the surface of the package;
.3
Shall be displayed on a background of contrasting colour on the external surface of the
package; and
.4
Shall not be located with other package markings that could substantially reduce their
effectiveness.
5.2.1.3 Salvage packagings shall additionally be marked with the word "SALVAGE".
5.2.1.4 Intermediate bulk containers of more than 450 l capacity shall be marked on two opposing sides.
5.2.1.6.1Packages containing marine pollutants meeting the criteria of 2.9.3 shall be durably marked with the
environmentally hazardous substance mark with the exception of single packagings and combination
packagings where such single packagings or inner packagings of such combination packagings have:
- a net quantity of 5 L or less for liquids; or
- a net mass of 5 kg or less for solids.
5.2.1.6.2The marine pollutant mark shall be located adjacent to the markings required by 5.2.1.1. The provisions
of 5.2.1.2 and 5.2.1.4 shall be met.
5.2.2
Labelling of packages including IBCs
5.2.2.1 Labelling provisions
These provisions are related essentially to danger labels. However, additional markings or symbols
indicating precautions to be taken in handling or storing a package (such as a symbol representing an
umbrella, indicating that a package shall be kept dry) may be displayed on a package if appropriate.
5.2.2.1.1 Labels identifying primary and subsidiary risks shall conform to models Nos. 1 to 9 illustrated
in 5.2.2.2.2. The "EXPLOSIVE" subsidiary risk label is model No. 1.
5.2.2.1.2 Where articles or substances are specifically listed in the Dangerous Goods List, a danger class
label shall be affixed for the hazard shown in column 3. A subsidiary risk label shall also be
affixed for any risk indicated by a class or division number in column 4 of the Dangerous
Goods List. However, special provisions indicated in column 6 may also require a subsidiary
risk label where no subsidiary risk is indicated in column 4 or may exempt from the
requirement for a subsidiary risk label where such a risk is indicated in the Dangerous Goods
List.
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3.4.5
Marking and Labelling (LQ)
3.4.5.1 Packages containing dangerous goods in limited quantities need not be labelled nor marked with the
marine pollutant mark, proper shipping name or UN number of the contents, but shall bear the marking
shown below. The marking shall comply with 5.2.1.9.
Marking for packages containing limited quantities
Top and bottom portions and line shall be black, centre area white or suitable contrasting background.
Minimum dimensions: 100 mm x 100 mm.
Minimum width of line forming diamond: 2 mm.
If the size of the package so requires, the dimension may be reduced, to be not less than 50 mm x 50
mm provided the marking remains clearly visible.
5.1.2
Use of overpacks and unit loads
5.1.2.1 An overpack and unit load shall be marked with the Proper Shipping Name and the UN Number and
marked and labelled, as required for packages by chapter 5.2, for each item of dangerous goods
contained in the overpack or unit load unless markings and labels representative of all dangerous goods
in the overpack or unit load are visible. An overpack, in addition, shall be marked with the word
"OVERPACK" unless markings and labels representatives of all dangerous goods, as required by
chapter 5.2, in the overpack are visible, except as required in 5.2.2.1.12.
5.1.2.2 The individual packages comprising a unit load or an overpack shall be marked and labelled in
accordance with chapter 5.2. Each package of dangerous goods contained in the unit load or overpack
shall comply with all applicable provisions of the Code. The "OVERPACK" marking on an overpack is
an indication of compliance with this provision. The intended function of each package shall not be
impaired by the unit load or overpack.
Remarks:
1. The label for dangerous goods shipped in limited quantities is as in the example shown.
This label is obligatory as of January 1st 2012.
The old label (white diamond with UN number inside) is no longer allowed!
2. The label for Marine Pollutants is as in the example shown.
The old label (triangle containing only a fish with a cross over it) is no longer allowed!
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3. The exemption in art. 3.4.7, which said that dangerous goods transported in limited
quantities and intended or suitable for sail through retail agencies were exempt from
marking with the UN number on the packaging, is no longer in the present version of the
IMDG Code. Therefore as of 01/01/2012 all packagings containing dangerous goods need
to be properly marked and labeled.
3) Documentation
2.1 Dangerous Goods Document - DGD
To establish a correct DGD, following elements should be taken into account:
1. language
The SOLAS convention, of which the IMDG regulation is a part, stipulates that all documents
have to be drawn up in English, French or Spanish. As a consequence one of these languages
has to be used for drawing up maritime transport documents; therefore a DGD in Dutch,
German, Italian,… is not legal.
2. lay out
There is no standard lay out; any form of DGD can be used, provided that the shipper’s
declaration (“I hereby declare that the content of this consignment…”) is written on the
document.
(for an example see 5.4.5 of the IMDG code – also in annex)
3. content
A DGD has to mention:
- name and address of shipper/consignor
- name and address of consignee
- correct description of the dangerous goods:
a) the UN number preceded by the letters "UN"
b) the proper shipping name, also include the technical name (no commercial name) if
applicable
c) the primary hazard class and, when assigned, the subsidiary hazard class. The word
“Class” may be included
d) the packing group, when assigned
This description shall be shown in sequence a-b-c-d
Examples:
UN 1805, phosphoric acid solution, class 8, PG III
UN 1263, paint, 3, PG III, +27°C c.c.
UN 1092, acrolein, stabilized, 6.1 (3), PG I, marine pollutant
UN 2761, organochlorine pesticide, solid, toxic, (aldrin 19%), class 6.1, PG III, marine
pollutant
UN 1950, aerosols, 2.1, in limited quantities
- information that supplements the proper shipping name:
° if the dangerous substance is a marine pollutant, indicate with the words "MARINE
POLLUTANT"
° if the dangerous goods have a flashpoint (class 3 substances), please indicate
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° if the dangerous goods are packed in limited quantities, indicate with the words "limited
quantity" or "LTD QTY"
° The EmS-code (Emergency Schedule); this is not obligatory, but is required by some
shipping lines.
° Emergency phone number; this is not obligatory, but is required by (some) shipping lines.
- number and kind of packages
- total quantity
- legible name and signature
- date
2.2 Material Safety Data Sheet - MSDS
When shipping a chemical substance shipper always needs to hand over a MSDS. This is not
required in the IMDG Code, but this is a requirement whenever a chemical substance enters
the EU. Also shipping lines ask such document to be able to stow containers on board in a
correct way.
A MSDS is a structured document containing information in regard to a chemical substance.
It gives an overview of ingredients (when it is a preparation), the risks the substance contains,
the measures to take for protection, instructions for safe use of the substance,…
Based on European regulations a MSDS should contain 16 sections.
For your info: all chemical substances, also the non dangerous substances, should have a
MSDS!
2.3 Container Packing Certificate – CPC
When dangerous goods are loaded in a container, the person / company responsible has to
prepare a CPC, indicating the container number. This document has to be signed and has to
contain a legible name.
When signing a CPC, following is declared:
1 The container/vehicle was clean, dry and apparently fit to receive the goods;
2 Packages which need to be segregated in accordance with applicable segregation
requirements have not been packed together onto or in the container/vehicle (unless
approved by the competent authority concerned in accordance with7.2.2.3);
3 All packages have been externally inspected for damage, and only sound packages have
been loaded;
4 Drums have been stowed in an upright position, unless otherwise authorized by the
competent authority, and all goods have been properly loaded and, where necessary,
adequately braced with securing material to suit the mode(s) of transport for the intended
journey;
5 Goods loaded in bulk have been evenly distributed within the container/vehicle;
6 For consignments including goods of class 1 other than division 1.4, the container/vehicle
is structurally serviceable in accordance with 7.4.6;
7 The container/vehicle and packages are properly marked, labelled and placarded, as
appropriate;
8 When solid carbon dioxide (CO2-dry ice) is used for cooling purposes, the
container/vehicle is externally marked or labelled in a conspicuous place, such as, at the
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door end, with the words: "DANGEROUS CO2 (DRY ICE) INSIDE. VENTILATE
THOROUGHLY BEFORE ENTERING"; and
9 A dangerous goods transport document, as indicated in 5.4.1, has been received for each
dangerous goods consignment loaded in the container/vehicle.
MEASURES IN CASE OF IRREGULARITY AT ARRIVAL IN ANTWERP CFS
1. Incorrect labeling
Intervention costs :
Labelling :
Small labels (PSN, IMDG, …) :
Medium labels A5 (UN,…) :
Big labels 25x25 :
Working hour :
Shrinkfoil :
42,50 €
2,65 € / piece
9,45 € / piece
7,35 € / piece
80 € / hour ( with forklift 3 ton )
5.5 € / piece/foil
2. Damages
Intervention cost : as per outlay with minimum
350€
Protection Mask :
Protection Gloves :
Protection Clothing :
2€ / piece
12€ / set
15€ / piece
Plastic Liner :
30€ / piece
Use of Retention Bin :
Cleaning Retention Bin :
40€ / day
155€
Oversized/Salvage Drum
Drum metal 320 liter / 200 liter / 100 liter :
Drum PVC 300 liter ( IMO 8 ) :
Drum PVC 120 liter / 70 liter :
Drum Liner ( IMO 8 ) :
260€ - 200€ - 135€ / piece
375€ / piece
150€ / piece – 125€ / piece
30€ / piece
3. NON – DECLARED IMO CARGO
Legal and administrative intervention-fee :
750€
ALL COSTINGS ABOVE ARE WITHOUT COMMITMENT AND SUBJECT TO
MODIFICATION. ALL COSTINGS ABOVE ARE NOT NEGOTIABLE
For more info you can:
 contact Erik Vincke on tel. +32 3 544 39 49 or e-mail erikv@ecuanr.eculine.net
 contact your own Competent Authority
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ANNEX : Example of a DGD
MULTIMODAL DANGEROUS GOODS FORM
This form may be used as a dangerous goods declaration as it meets the requirements of SOLAS 74, chapter VII, regulation 4;
MARPOL 73/78, Annex III, regulation 4
1 Shipper/Consignor/Sender
2 Transport document number
3 Page 1 of pages
4 Shipper's reference
5 Freight Forwarder's reference
6 Consignee
7 Carrier (to be completed by the carrier)
SHIPPER'S DECLARATION
I hereby declare that the contents of this consignment are fully and
accurately described below by the Proper Shipping Name, and are
classified, packaged, marked and labelled/placarded and are in all
respects in proper condition for transport according to the applicable
international and national governmental regulations.
8 This shipment is within the limitations prescribed for: 9 Additional handling information
(Delete non-applicable)
CARGO
PASSENGER AND CARGO
AIRCRAFT
AIRCRAFT
ONLY
10 Vessel/flight no. and date
11 Port/place of
loading
12 Port/place of discharge
13 Destination
14 Shipping marks *Number and kind of packages; description of goods Gross mass (kg) Net mass (kg) Cube (m 3)
15 Container identification No./
vehicle registration No.
16 Seal number(s)
CONTAINER/VEHICLE PACKING
CERTIFICATE
I hereby declare that the goods described above have
been packed/ loaded into the container/vehicle
identified above in accordance with the applicable
17 Container/vehicle size
& type
18 Tare
mass
(kg)
19 Total gross mass (including
tare) (kg)
21 RECEIVING ORGANISATION RECEIPT
Received the above number of packages/containers/trailers in apparent
good order and condition unless stated hereon: RECEIVING
ORGANISATION REMARKS:
provisions. †
MUST BE COMPLETED AND SIGNED FOR ALL
CONTAINER/VEHICLE LOADS BY PERSON
RESPONSIBLE FOR PACKING/LOADING.
20 Name of company
Haulier's name
Vehicle reg. no.
Signature and date
22 Name of company (OF
SHIPPER PREPARING THIS
NOTE)
Name/Status of declarant
Name/status of declarant
Place and date
Place and date
Signature of declarant
DRIVER'S SIGNATURE
Signature of declarant
* DANGEROUS GOODS:
You must specify: Proper Shipping Name, hazard class, UN No., packing group, (where assigned) marine pollutant and observe the
mandatory requirements under applicable national and international governmental regulations. For the purposes of the IMDG Code
see 5.4.1.4
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