IATA Variations for Plastic Single Packaging
Why the New IATA Changes Matter
With the 67th edition of IATA 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.
What IATA Means by Single Packaging
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—for example, a UN-rated plastic drum or jerrican. Under most circumstances, you can follow the closing instructions for your plastic drum and send it on its way.
A New Requirement for Plastic Drums and Jerricans
However, several operator variations in the 67th edition introduce additional requirements. These variations are also reflected in the IATA Addendum and now form part of current compliance expectations.
European Cargo’s New Operator Variation
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:
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.
What Counts as Acceptable Protection
This means that a strong packaging such as a non-UN overpack box 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.
Starlux Airlines Adds Similar Requirements
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:
- The steel drums/plastic drums/plastic jerricans must be protected by other strong outer packaging. For example, fiberboard 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.
- If wooden skids are used, shippers must ensure that there are no sharp objects protruding on the skids.
Why Operator Variations Must Never Be Overlooked
These operator variations, just like all of the others listed in IATA, must be closely followed to ensure that your shipment is in full compliance.
ICC Solutions for Compliant Shipping
At ICC, we not only have plastic single packaging, but we also have a strong non-UN fiberboard overpack which would fulfill the requirements of the new operator variations mentioned above. Feel free to contact us at 1-888-442-9628 for more information or visit our website.
Not sure whether your shipment needs an overpack? Contact our team for guidance.
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