Limited Quantity Shipping: Ground, Ocean, and Air

Limited Quantity Shipping: Ground, Ocean, and Air

Introduction

Shipping dangerous goods as Limited Quantities (LQ) can be viewed as a simplified compliance option—but that simplicity depends entirely on how the goods are transported. While Limited Quantity provisions exist across ground, ocean, and air transport, the regulatory relief they provide varies significantly by mode.

While a product may qualify as a Limited Quantity for ground transport, the same requirements do not automatically apply when shipping by ocean or air. Each mode operates under a different regulatory framework, with its own quantity limits, documentation requirements, marking and labeling rules, and packaging standards. In some cases—particularly for air transport—Limited Quantities are treated much like fully regulated dangerous goods.

This article provides a high-level comparison of Limited Quantity requirements for ground transport in Canada and the United States, ocean transport under the IMDG Code, and air transport under the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. Understanding these differences is critical to avoiding non-compliance, shipment delays, rejected cargo, and unexpected costs.

Understanding Limited Quantity Provisions

Limited Quantity (LQ) provisions allow quantity-based regulatory relief for certain dangerous goods. While the concept is similar across all modes of transport, the requirements and level of relief vary significantly between ground, ocean, and air.

Ground Transport (Canada & United States)

Canada (TDG Regulations)

• If the quantity per inner containment is below Column 6A in Schedule 1:

• Exempt from:
  • Marks and labels (except the LQ mark)
  • Shipping document
  • UN performance packaging

• Conditions:
  • Combination packaging only
  • Maximum 30 kg gross weight
  • Limited Quantity mark must be correctly applied

United States (49 CFR)

• Similar exemptions for:
  • Marking and labeling
  • Shipping papers
  • UN performance packaging

• Key difference:
  • Packaging must comply with Column 8 packaging instructions
  • Instructions always begin with §173.xxx
  • Packaging instructions are detailed and must be fully reviewed, as they may include commodity-specific conditions (e.g., alcoholic beverages)

Ocean Transport (IMDG Code)

• Quantity limits are based on the Limited Quantity column in the Dangerous Goods List
• Exempt from:
  • Marks and labels (except the LQ mark)
  • UN performance packaging
• Key differences from ground:
  • Dangerous Goods Declaration is still required
  • Cargo Transport Units (CTUs) must display the Limited Quantity placard

Air Transport (IATA DGR)

• Limited Quantities by air are far more restrictive
• Treated similarly to fully regulated shipments:
  • Full marking and labeling required
  • Shipper’s Declaration required

• Key points:
  • Quantity limits apply to the entire package, not per inner
  • Packaging instructions always begin with “Y”
  • Limited Quantity label must include the letter “Y”
  • UN performance packaging not required, but packaging standards are strict

• Example (liquids):
  • Inner packagings must withstand internal pressure:
    • 95 kPa (Packing Groups I & II)
    • 75 kPa (Packing Group III)

• If inner packaging pressure capability is unknown:
  • Manufacturer confirmation is required, or
  • Use of pressure-rated bags may be necessary
  • Cost may approach that of UN performance packaging

Key Takeaway: Why Mode of Transport Matters

• “Limited Quantity” does not mean the same thing across all modes
• Ground and ocean transport are relatively generous
• Air transport offers minimal relief and has strict technical requirements
• Always verify the applicable regulations for your mode of transport

Final Note:

This article is intended as a high-level comparison only. Regulatory details and exemptions vary by substance and classification, and applicable regulations should always be consulted.

Not sure which Limited Quantity rules apply to your shipment? Talk to one of our Regulatory Experts.

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Limited Quantity Label

IATA Publications

US 49 CFR Publications