UN-certified packaging is generally required under U.S. DOT (49 CFR), as well as TDG (Canada), IATA (air), and IMDG (sea) regulations when shipping dangerous goods above applicable limited quantity or excepted quantity exemptions.

The specific requirement is triggered when a packing instruction (IATA/IMDG) or packaging section (49 CFR/TDG) explicitly mandates UN specification packaging for a given UN number, hazard class, and packing group.

How ICC can help:

• Products: Wide selection of UN-certified boxes, drums, jerricans, and variation packaging
• Custom Packaging: We can design custom packaging kits to suit your company's needs that are compliant with current standards/regulations.
• Training: DOT (49CFR), IATA, and TDG training to ensure your team understands when UN packaging is required.

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Under U.S. DOT (49 CFR), shipments require shipping papers, similarly, TDG and IMDG Code require shipping documents as well. IATA (air) requires a Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods.

The documentation must align with the packaging and include:

• Proper shipping name, UN number, hazard class, and packing group
• Quantity and type of packaging
• Emergency response information

How ICC can help:

• Products: Shipping forms for all modes of transport.

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Learn more with our Documentation FAQ.

Regulatory changes (U.S. DOT → TDG → IATA/IMDG) typically include transition periods, allowing companies to continue using existing packaging for a defined timeframe.

However, continued use depends on whether:

• The packaging still meets updated performance standards
• The marking and certification remain valid
• The packaging is still authorized for the material under revised rules

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Read some of our articles:

• Do Unused UN 4G Boxes Expire?
• Does Plastic Single Packaging Expire?

The correct packaging is determined using the applicable U.S. DOT (49 CFR) packaging section or IATA/IMDG packing instruction, based on:

• UN number and proper shipping name
• Hazard class/division
• Packing group (I, II, III)
• Quantity and mode of transport

For combination packaging, both inner and outer packaging types are specified.

How ICC can help:

• Products: Full range of approved inner and outer packaging options.

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Browse our wide variety of Packaging | More FAQs.

Reusing UN packaging introduces risk if the packaging can no longer meet UN performance standards required under U.S. DOT, TDG, IATA, and IMDG.

Key risks include:

• Structural degradation from prior use (impact, stacking, vibration)
• Compromised closures (e.g., weakened fiberboard from tape removal on 4G boxes)
• Unknown handling history
• Failure to meet capabilities to pass drop, stack, vibration, or leakproofness tests

This can result in shipment rejections, fines, or safety incidents.

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Shop UN Boxes & Packaging.

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Read more: Can I Reuse UN Standard Packaging?

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