What it is
A Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) is the document where the shipper identifies the dangerous goods in a shipment and certifies that the goods are properly classified, packaged, marked, labeled and in proper condition for transport. For air shipments it is called the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods. For ocean shipments it is the Dangerous Goods Declaration. For US ground shipments the equivalent is the shipping paper.
Who completes it
The shipper is responsible for the declaration, and the person who signs it must be trained. The carrier relies on it to accept, handle and load the shipment safely, and responders rely on it if something goes wrong.
What it typically includes
- UN number (for example, UN1203)
- Proper shipping name, with any required technical names
- Hazard class or division, and subsidiary hazards
- Packing group, where one applies
- Number and type of packages and the total quantity
- Packing instruction or other details required for the mode of transport
- Shipper and consignee names and addresses
- 24-hour emergency contact telephone number
- Certification statement, signature and date
- Overpack used, where an overpack is part of the shipment
The basic description follows a set order: UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, then packing group.
Common mistakes that cause delays
- Wrong or incomplete proper shipping name, or missing technical names
- Missing packing group or subsidiary hazard
- Quantities that do not match what is on the package
- No emergency contact number, or a number that is not staffed
- Declaration unsigned, or signed by someone who is not trained
- Markings and labels on the package that do not agree with the paperwork
Some shipments need less, some need more
Certain low-risk categories, such as some limited or excepted quantities, have reduced paperwork rules. Other shipments, including those with special provisions or approvals, need additional documents. The correct set depends on the material, quantity and mode of transport.