Classifying Fireworks for Transport

With the Fourth of July and Canada Day celebrations lighting up skies across North America, fireworks are a festive staple. Behind the spectacle lies a complex web of regulations that govern their transport.

Classified as explosives, fireworks are subject to strict controls under U.S. ground transport regulations (49 CFR), international air transport rules (IATA DGR), and Canadian ground transport under the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (TDGR). This article breaks down how fireworks are classified and transported under each regulatory framework.

Fireworks fall under Class 1 – Explosives, with subclassifications depending on their explosive risk. Common UN numbers include:

UN0333 – Fireworks, 1.1G (mass explosion hazard)
UN0334 – Fireworks, 1.2G (projection hazard)
UN0335 – Fireworks, 1.3G (fire hazard)
UN0336 – Fireworks, 1.4G (minor explosion hazard)
UN0337 – Fireworks, 1.4S (minimal hazard)

Classification is based on UN Test Series 6 criteria and must be validated by competent authorities.

U.S. Regulations – 49 CFR

In the U.S., fireworks are regulated by PHMSA under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR Parts 100–185). Key requirements include:

EX Number Approval from PHMSA
Use of UN Performance Packaging
Clear documentation with the proper shipping name, UN number, and EX number
Explosive placards for Class 1.1–1.3; 1.4G may qualify for exceptions
Only licensed carriers may transport higher-risk fireworks

Air Transport – IATA DGR

The IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, based on ICAO standards, govern air shipments:

1.1G–1.3G fireworks are generally prohibited by air
Some 1.4G fireworks are permitted with airline/operator approval
UN packaging must comply with IATA Packing Instructions
Documentation must include the Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods and EX approval references
Special provisions, may apply

Canadian Regulations – Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (TDGR)

Canada regulates dangerous goods transport through Transport Canada’s TDG Regulations, closely aligned with the UN Model Regulations and U.S. 49 CFR.

Classification and Approval:
- Fireworks must be classified under Class 1 (Explosives), with subclasses from 1.1 to 1.4, based on hazard type.
- Classification must be authorized by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) through the Explosives Regulatory Division (ERD).
- NRCan assigns an Authorization Number, similar in role to the U.S. EX number.
Use of UN Performance Packaging
Clear documentation with the proper shipping name, UN number
Clear marking and labelling and placarding under Part 4 of the regulations
Special Cases:
- Consumer fireworks (1.4G) often qualify for limited quantity exemptions under Section 1.15 or special permits issued by Transport Canada.
- Storage-in-transit and transfer points require compliance with ERD storage requirements.

Some common pitfalls when shipping fireworks include:

Using the wrong classification or approval authority (e.g., using a U.S. EX number in Canada without NRCan authorization)
Missing or expired authorization numbers
Assuming 1.4G items are automatically eligible for air or limited quantity exemption
Failure to placard correctly for multi-modal transport across U.S.-Canada borders

Transporting fireworks is far more than a logistics task—it’s a highly regulated activity that demands precision and full compliance with national and international rules. Whether shipping by ground under 49 CFR or TDGR or by air under IATA, fireworks must be properly classified, approved, packaged, and documented.

For cross-border shipments, it’s essential to align both U.S. and Canadian requirements, including PHMSA’s EX numbers and NRCan’s Authorization Numbers. When in doubt, consult ICC The Compliance Center for more information and guidance to ensure safe, legal, and seamless transport.

Do you have questions about Regulations? Our team of experts is just a call away for our customers at 855.734.5469 or send us an email, we’re happy to help.