The correct choice of UN-certified outer packaging.

Are all 4G boxes the same?

We know that in order to properly ship dangerous goods, we must always start with the UN number assigned to that specific good and its packing group (when present). With this information, it is possible to consult the correct manual, which varies depending on the shipping modality chosen (by road ADR, by rail RID, by inland waterway ADN, by sea IMDG and by air IATA / ICAO-TI), and identify the packing instruction to be followed.

However, when we read in the packing instruction that you can use, for example, a "4G box," does that mean that you can use any UN 4G-certified packaging?
The answer is "No, any 4G box may not be suitable".

Let's start with the idea that UN 4G certification is a specific combination of inner packaging(s), outer packaging and any filling/cushioning materials and the closure system. It should also be reminded that changing any of the elements just mentioned would invalidate the UN certification. For this reason, the choice of certified outer packaging should always start from the test report.

We can summarize what has been said so far with a simple sentence, "If in the test report of the UN 4G certified box you do not find your specific inner packaging or object, then the box is not suitable and cannot be used".
Let's look at this concept in detail with some practical examples.

CAN I PUT MY INNER PACKAGING OR OBJECT IN THAT OUTER PACKAGING?

The person who prepares the shipment is responsible for its compliance. Before purchase, it is the supplier's responsibility to pass on all relevant information and documents to enable any kind of verification to be carried out, this is possible by consulting the test report.
In the following 4 examples we will look at the same UN 4G-certified outer packaging with the corresponding test report.
This is a UN 4G-certified box to hold a 5-liter jerry can with its particular design, supplied by an "A" manufacturer (as can be seen from the image representing the test report).

1^st CASE

Inner packaging
and manufacturer (A) identical
to what is certified and written in the test report.

Combination inner packaging and outer packaging certified and written in the test report.

2^nd CASE

Identical inner packaging,
but different manufacturer (B)
than certified and written in the test report.

According to ADR 4.1.1.5.1 on shipper responsibility*

*Some regulations require written and signed technical documentation to support the change of inner packaging or object stating the method used to determine the same level of performance.

3^rd CASE

Different inner packaging,
than certified and written in the test report.

Combination of inner packaging and outer packaging not certified and not written in the test report.

HOW CAN I THEN SHIP IN COMPLIANCE IN THE 3^rd CASE?

When the specific item or inner packaging that you want to ship is not mentioned in the test report, you can still ship in compliance.
Depending on the quantity of goods and the frequency of shipments, three different solutions can be adopted.

SOLUTION WITH UN 4GV CERTIFIED PACKAGING

Managing small quantities and/or different inner packaging for each shipment

V-marked packaging is suitable for shipping objects or inner packaging of any kind, for solid or liquid materials belonging to packaging groups I, II, III.

SOLUTION WITH EXTENSION TO UN 4G CERTIFICATION

Shipment of the same inner packaging in moderate quantities that are always the same (from 200/300 packages per year)

From an existing certification, you have to certify and provide evidence of the combination of a new inner packaging or object plus the outer packaging.

SOLUTION WITH NEW UN 4G CERTIFICATION

Shipping of the same inner packaging in large quantities that are always the same (from 1000 packages per year)

Combination of inner packaging or object to be certified and documented with a new UN certification.

So, we took a look at the different solutions applicable to ship dangerous goods in full compliance.

The quantities reported in the different solutions are indicative and are intended to provide a generic outline on which to choose one solution over another. It should be remembered that these quantities may vary depending on the size of the outer packaging.

To choose the best solution you can contact our 4G and 4GV Experts who will be able to guide you in making the right choice by directing you to the best solution to ship easily, safely and in full compliance.

OBJECTS
ARE NOT ALL
THE SAME!

Airbags, lithium-ion (LB) batteries, pyrotechnics, are all objects, but they are not comparable, have different strengths and different effects on packaging during testing.
If your object is not listed among those allowed by the test report use one of the 3 solutions listed above.