{"id":886558,"date":"2026-04-02T07:00:11","date_gmt":"2026-04-02T11:00:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thecompliancecenter.com\/ca\/?p=886558"},"modified":"2026-04-08T13:16:58","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T17:16:58","slug":"iata-variations-for-plastic-single-packaging","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thecompliancecenter.com\/ca\/help-center\/articles\/iata-variations-for-plastic-single-packaging\/","title":{"rendered":"IATA Variations for Plastic Single Packaging"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"IATA Variations for Plastic Single Packaging<\/h2>\n

Why the New IATA Changes Matter<\/h4>\n

With the 67th edition of IATA<\/a><\/strong> now in effect, it is important to make sure you review all of the changes. These updates not only affect general shipping practices but also highlight specific requirements that could impact certain types of packaging. A review of the significant changes reveals new operator variations that are particularly important for those shipping plastic single packaging by air.<\/p>\n

What IATA Means by Single Packaging<\/h4>\n

Single packaging in IATA is defined as packaging that does not require any inner packaging to perform its containment function during transport. This means these types of packagings can typically be shipped on their own without needing an outer box\u2014for example, a UN-rated plastic drum or jerrican<\/a><\/strong>. Under most circumstances, you can follow the closing instructions for your plastic drum and send it on its way.<\/p>\n

A New Requirement for Plastic Drums and Jerricans<\/h4>\n

However, several operator variations in the 67th edition introduce additional requirements. These variations are also reflected in the IATA Addendum<\/a><\/strong> and now form part of current compliance expectations.<\/p>\n

European Cargo\u2019s New Operator Variation<\/h4>\n

One variation in particular affects shipments going by European Cargo Limited, as operator variation SE-10 will was added to the new physical publication of IATA in 2026. This new variation states that liquid dangerous goods in single packagings of plastic drums and plastic jerricans must be prepared as follows:<\/p>\n

The plastic drums\/plastic jerricans must be protected by other strong outer packaging, for example a fibreboard box; or, if prepared as an open overpack, a suitably sized plastic, foam or wooden pallet must be used to protect at least the top and bottom of the packaging.<\/p>\n

What Counts as Acceptable Protection<\/h4>\n

This means that a strong packaging such as a non-UN overpack box<\/a><\/strong> like below must be used to protect the plastic single packaging, or if it is in an open overpack, the top and bottom of the packaging must be protected as mentioned above.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Starlux Airlines Adds Similar Requirements<\/h4>\n

Similarly, Starlux Airlines has a similar new variation that has been added which also mentions steel drums. JX-17 states that liquid dangerous goods in single packaging of drums and jerricans of any materials must be prepared as follows:<\/p>\n