International Transport of DG Cargo

Main Dangerous Goods Imported from China to France

Based on the IMDG Code and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, dangerous goods are classified into 9 classes. The main DG categories imported from China to France include:

Each class requires specific handling, packaging, and documentation, which must be managed by a professional DG freight forwarder.

How to Safely Ship Dangerous Goods by Air from China to France

1. Correct classification & documentation: Determine UN number, proper shipping name, and class. Key documents: MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), Dangerous Goods Classification Report.
2. Choose an accredited forwarder & carrier: The forwarder must hold IATA DG certification; airlines must have Dangerous Goods Transport Permits.
3. Packaging & labelling compliance: Use UN‑specified packaging per IATA DGR. Affix DG labels, UN numbers, and handling marks. For lithium batteries, ensure State of Charge (SoC) ≤ 30%.
4. Booking & declaration: Apply for DG space with the airline in advance and submit a complete Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD). Some airports have daily quantity limits for certain classes.
5. Security screening & loading: Cargo undergoes strict security checks to verify documents, packaging, and labels before loading.
6. French import clearance: Upon arrival (e.g., Paris CDG), local agents handle customs clearance, duties/VAT, and final delivery.

How to Ship Dangerous Goods by LCL (Less than Container Load) from China to France

LCL is a cost‑effective option for smaller quantities, but not all classes are allowed. Currently acceptable LCL classes include:

• Class 3 (flammable liquids – subject to flash point)
• Some Class 4.1 (flammable solids – depends on specific product)
• Some Class 6 (toxic substances)
• Class 8 (corrosives)
• Class 9 (miscellaneous, e.g., lithium batteries)

Important considerations:

• Acids and alkalis cannot be consolidated together; Class 4.1 and Class 8 cannot be mixed either.
• DG LCL shipments must be palletised (either by the shipper or with forwarder assistance).
• Booking must be made at least 10 days in advance. Required documents: shipping instruction, English MSDS, Dangerous Goods Packaging Certificate, etc.
• Transit times are usually 3‑7 days longer than for general cargo.

How to Ship Dangerous Goods by FCL (Full Container Load) from China to France

FCL is ideal for large volumes of DG. The process is well‑defined:

1. Booking & documentation: Submit at least 7 working days in advance:
   • Shipping instruction (booking note)
   • Dangerous Goods Packaging Certificate (危包证)
   • English MSDS
   • Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)
2. Loading & securing: Container packing is done at the origin warehouse or factory. Goods must be in UN‑approved packaging (e.g., UN boxes, drums) with correct DG labels.
3. Maritime declaration & customs: Submit dangerous goods declaration to the maritime authority – approval takes 2‑3 days.
4. Vessel loading & ocean transit: Cargo is loaded onto vessels sailing to French main ports (Le Havre, FOS, Marseille).
5. French import clearance & delivery: Upon arrival, local agents handle customs clearance, inspections, and final delivery.

Qualifications and Documents Required for DG Transport

To comply with IMDG Code, shipping lines, and customs, the following core documents are essential:

All documents must accompany the shipment and be consistent with the actual cargo.

How to Transport Class 9 Dangerous Goods – Batteries to France

Lithium batteries and battery‑powered devices fall under Class 9 and are a popular import category from China. Special attention is needed:

• Correct classification:
  • UN3480 – Lithium‑ion batteries (batteries alone)
  • UN3481 – Lithium‑ion batteries contained in equipment
  • UN3090 – Lithium metal batteries
• Core documents: MSDS, UN38.3 Test Report, Packaging Certificate.
• Packaging requirements: Batteries must be individually protected against short circuits. Outer packaging must bear Class 9 DG labels and UN numbers. Terminals must be insulated.
• State of Charge (SoC): Must be ≤ 30% of rated capacity (as per IATA DGR 67th edition).
• Mode of transport: Prefer all‑cargo aircraft for air freight. For sea, choose container lines with IMDG certification.
• French compliance: Warehouses in France must have DG storage permits (Class 9). The new EU Battery Regulation requires carbon footprint statements, recycling labels, digital battery passports, etc.

Shipping Lines Offering DG Sea Freight from China to France

The following carriers are DG‑certified and operate routes from major Chinese ports (Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Qingdao) to French ports (Le Havre, FOS, Marseille):

• CMA CGM – French flag carrier with extensive DG experience.
• MSC – global leader with comprehensive route coverage.
• COSCO – China’s largest shipping line, handles both FCL and LCL DG.
• Hapag‑Lloyd – European carrier with a robust DG compliance process.

Advance booking is required, and complete DG documentation must be submitted.

Chinese Airports and Airlines Offering DG Air Freight to France

Main origin airports:

• Shanghai Pudong (PVG) – China Cargo Airlines operates direct PVG‑Paris freighters.
• Hong Kong (HKG) – handles battery‑containing goods, chemicals, and other DG.
• Shenzhen (SZX), Guangzhou (CAN) and other major hubs.

Key airlines:

• China Cargo Airlines – first Chinese carrier with Dangerous Goods Transport Permit.
• Air France – offers direct flights from Shanghai/Hong Kong to Paris.
• Air China, China Southern, Hainan Airlines – all handle DG subject to approvals.
• Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific – also serve the route.

Each airline has specific restrictions on DG types, packing grades, and declaration procedures – always check in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Success Stories

Why Choose Goodhope Freight?