International Transport of Hazardous Materials & Dangerous Goods
FCL · LCL · Air & DHL
from China to Japan

Main DG Categories & IMDG Classes

Japan, as a major industrial and manufacturing hub in Asia, imports a wide range of hazardous materials from China. The most common DG classes are:

※ Always verify with MSDS and UN number for accurate classification.

Air DG Process – IATA DGR Compliance

Air transport of dangerous goods must strictly follow IATA DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations). The key steps are:

1. Classification & Identification – Provide MSDS and transport identification report to determine UN number, packing group, and air transport restrictions.
2. Compliant Packaging – Use UN-approved packaging (dangerous goods packaging) that meets the required packing group; affix correct hazard labels and marks.
3. Documentation – Prepare DGD (Dangerous Goods Declaration), UN packaging certificate, MSDS, transport identification report, and air waybill.
4. Booking & Tender – Book with an airline that accepts the specific DG class; confirm flight availability and tender cargo at the airport cargo terminal.
5. Ground Handling & Loading – The airport freight station inspects the DG shipment; loading must comply with IATA segregation and stowage requirements.
6. Tracking & Customs – Upon arrival in Japan, the shipment is cleared by a local customs broker with full DG documentation.

⚠️ Important: Japanese customs are strict about DG imports. Ensure all declarations match the physical cargo. We recommend working with an experienced freight forwarder.

LCL DG Shipping Guide

LCL is ideal for smaller DG shipments. Multiple shippers' cargoes are consolidated into one container. Key points:

• Booking & Consolidation: Apply for LCL DG space with the shipping line; confirm whether different DG classes can be mixed in the same container.
• Delivery & Warehousing: Cargo is delivered to a designated DG warehouse for inspection, labeling, palletizing, and stuffing.
• Documentation: Provide full IMDG declaration, UN packaging certificate, MSDS, and packing certificate. The consolidator handles customs and shipping line declarations.
• Stuffing & Securing: Strict IMDG segregation and securing requirements must be followed to prevent leakage or shifting during transit.
• Deconsolidation at Destination: Upon arrival at the Japanese port (e.g., Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka), the local agent deconsolidates, clears customs, and delivers.

💡 LCL transit time is typically 5–8 days from major Chinese ports to Japanese main ports, depending on the shipping schedule.

FCL DG Shipping Process

FCL is suitable for large DG volumes, offering flexibility and cost efficiency. The process is as follows:

1. Booking & Container Sourcing: Book DG FCL space with the shipping line; arrange container pick-up (SOC or COC).
2. Stuffing (Loading): Load the container at the factory or warehouse, complying with IMDG stowage and segregation rules; affix DG placards and marks.
3. Customs Declaration & Export: Submit full DG documentation (IMDG declaration, UN packaging certificate, MSDS, stuffing photos) to Chinese customs for export clearance.
4. Terminal Operations: The container is moved to the DG yard at the port, inspected by the shipping line and terminal, then loaded aboard the vessel.
5. Ocean Transit & Destination: The container arrives at the Japanese port (e.g., Yokohama, Nagoya, Kobe), where the consignee or agent handles import customs clearance, container pick-up, and final delivery.

IMDG & Customs / Shipping Line Requirements

To ensure smooth DG shipment, your logistics provider must have the following qualifications and prepare the complete set of documents:

Goodhope Freight holds all the above qualifications and works closely with Japanese customs brokers for seamless clearance.

Lithium Battery Shipping Guidelines

Lithium batteries (Li-ion and Li-metal) are Class 9 DG and are among the most frequently shipped goods from China to Japan. Key requirements:

• UN38.3 Test Report – mandatory for all lithium battery shipments; includes 8 tests (altitude, temperature, vibration, shock, short-circuit, overcharge, etc.)
• MSDS & Transport ID – provide MSDS and transport identification report detailing battery type, energy density, and weight.
• Compliant Packaging – use UN-certified packaging with appropriate packing group; batteries must be protected against short circuits (insulation, segregation).
• Labels & Marks – affix the lithium battery mark and Class 9 hazard label on the outer packaging.
• Additional Documents – include the UN38.3 test summary and a battery declaration (state of charge).
• Mode of Transport – air shipments must comply with IATA DGR Special Provisions; sea shipments follow IMDG Class 9 stowage rules.

📌 Goodhope Service: We assist with UN38.3 testing, packaging design, documentation, and full transport – ensuring your batteries arrive in Japan safely and compliantly.

Major DG-Capable Carriers on the China–Japan Route

The following shipping lines accept DG cargo and provide regular services from major Chinese ports to Japanese ports:

These carriers handle Classes 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9. Some have restrictions on Class 2 gases and Class 7 radioactive materials – please confirm with us prior to booking.

※ Transit times are estimates; actual may vary due to weather, congestion, and schedules.

Key Airports & Airlines for China–Japan DG

Several Chinese international airports are equipped to handle DG shipments. Major airports and airlines serving the Japan route include:

Each airline has its own DG acceptance policy. We work with all major carriers to find the best option for your cargo.