These are the 9 classes of dangerous goods

When you ship products that fall under the rules for dangerous goods, you need to know exactly which dangerous goods class your shipment belongs to. These classes determine how your products must be packaged, labelled and transported.

They also influence which carriers you can work with and what restrictions apply. Below you’ll find a clear overview you to help you prepare your shipments.

How many classes of dangerous goods are there?

There are a total of 9 classes of dangerous goods. These are the official categories of dangerous goods used worldwide across road, air and sea transport. Each class covers specific types of dangerous goods with their own risks.

Class 1 – Explosives

Products that can explode due to a chemical reaction.
Examples: fireworks, airbags, detonators.

Class 2 – Gases

Compressed, liquefied or dissolved gases.
Examples: oxygen, butane, aerosols.

Class 3 – Flammable liquids

Liquids with a low flash point that can ignite easily.
Examples: fuels, solvents, paints.

Class 4 – Flammable solids

Solids that may ignite through friction, heat or moisture.
Examples: phosphorus, sulphur, metal powders.

Class 5 – Oxidising substances and organic peroxides

Materials that release oxygen and can accelerate combustion.
Examples: hydrogen peroxide, nitrates.

Class 6 – Toxic and infectious substances

Substances that can harm humans or animals.
Examples: pesticides, medical samples.

Class 7 – Radioactive materials

Products that emit ionising radiation.
Examples: medical isotopes, industrial sources.

Class 8 – Corrosive substances

Materials that can damage skin, metals or cargo.
Examples: acids, alkalis, battery fluid.

Class 9 – Miscellaneous dangerous substances

All dangerous products not covered by classes 1–8.
Examples: magnetised materials, environmentally hazardous goods.

Lithium batteries are part of this class and usually require extra care. Due to fire risk, carriers apply strict packaging and handling rules. This is especially relevant for e-commerce, consumer electronics and fulfilment operations.

Why the correct dangerous goods class matters

The 9 classes of dangerous goods help determine how hazardous materials must be transported. Correctly identifying the class of your product is essential for compliant and efficient shipping.

Your product’s class determines:

• which packaging you need (including UN-approved packaging)
• which signs and symbols must be used
• which documents are required
• whether a carrier is allowed to transport it
• any restrictions, surcharges or limitations

A wrong classification can easily lead to delays, fines or rejected shipments.

How to determine your dangerous goods class

In most cases, the dangerous goods class is listed in the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) under section 14. If it’s missing or unclear, the manufacturer or supplier must provide it. Carriers rely on this information, so make sure it’s correct before shipping.