Transporting dangerous goods comes with a whole set of regulations and requirements to consider, compared to if you’re simply looking for an art courier or IT courier, for instance. At SpeedLink, we handle the transportation of dangerous goods regularly - we’re the critical link in your supply chain. 

Many other couriers won’t even consider transporting dangerous goods due to the extra level of risk involved, but we do - and we do it as quickly as we possibly can with both same-day and next-day courier options available. Our couriers are experienced, reliable, secure, and fast; you can trust that your goods are in safe hands - no matter how dangerous they are - when you choose SpeedLink.

What Are Dangerous Goods?

Dangerous goods are defined as those that contain any substance that could be considered dangerous to the environment or risky to transport. This could be something flammable, that may explode, have corrosive properties, or could spill into the environment, causing harm. Some examples of hazardous and dangerous goods include:

  • Any flammable materials
  • Fireworks
  • Corrosive cleaning products
  • Other harmful liquids that could cause accidents or risks if spilt
  • Gas cylinders
  • Chemical materials
  • Organic peroxides
  • Other flammable gases
  • Radioactive materials

Transporting dangerous goods is considered as high-risk to the environment, no matter whether the items are transported by rail, road, or sea. Spillages and leaks of toxic substances can have devastating effects on the surrounding environment, including populations, wildlife, and infrastructure. This means the transportation of dangerous goods requires experienced experts you can trust. Take a look at our case studies to find out how we’ve helped other businesses with their critical deliveries.

What Are The Requirements For The Transportation Of Dangerous Goods?

There are understandably different regulations to comply with when transporting dangerous goods to ensure all items are handled safely, and present as little risk as possible to the environment. 

Before transporting dangerous goods, each shipment must be prepared in accordance with the relevant dangerous goods regulations, such as the IATA/ICAO regulations. If transporting dangerous goods into Europe by road, you’ll need to comply with the ADR for road transport. 

Dangerous goods couriers are sometimes also referred to as ADR couriers; ADR stands for Accord Dangerous Routier, the French name for the UN regulations first set out in 1957 that need to be complied with if you’re arranging the international transport of dangerous goods by road. These requirements set out how to pack, secure, load, and classify potentially hazardous goods when shipping them across the UK or over land to Europe.

Meanwhile, the IATA regulations outline everything you need to know about transporting dangerous goods by air, clearly stating the documentation you’ll need, classification guidance, handling requirements for your dangerous or hazardous package, and any limitations.

When arranging the transportation of dangerous goods, you’ll also need to:

  • Ensure dangerous goods are packed correctly
  • Correctly mark and label dangerous goods ready for transport
  • Complete all required documents prior to transportation
  • Ensure all state and operator variations are complied with
  • Make sure your dangerous goods shipment is booked in with SpeedLink prior to collection - this is vital to ensure the transportation of dangerous goods goes without a hitch

Dangerous Goods Custom Declaration: What You Need To Know

Anyone transporting high-risk goods needs to complete a Dangerous Goods Custom Declaration, sometimes also referred to as a Dangerous Goods Shipper’s Declaration, or a DGD. This legally required form needs to be filled out by the party responsible for the transportation of dangerous goods to state that a package’s contents have been packed, labelled, and declared in line with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulation (DGR) - there is a separate Dangerous Goods Declaration Form for Road Transport if you’re couriering dangerous goods by road.

These forms are widely available to download online. Read more about customs clearance rules.

Transporting Dangerous Goods With SpeedLink

At SpeedLink, we understand just how important the safe and approved transport of dangerous goods is, which is why we’re committed to providing a fast and secure dangerous goods courier service, 24/7. 

All guidelines and regulations must be complied with and only dangerous goods shipments that have been booked and approved with SpeedLink prior to collection will be accepted for transportation. This means we can take the time to gather all of the appropriate documents required for transporting dangerous goods and ensure that your package will be properly labelled to prevent anything being held up at the border. 

Dangerous goods transport is just one of the specialist courier services available at SpeedLink. We also offer medical courier, cremated remains courier, and pet courier services. Get a free quote today, or contact us to book a SpeedLink courier now.