Shipping dangerous goods (DG) like lithium batteries, aerosols, or flammable liquids requires precision. Mistakes in paperwork, packaging, or routing lead to seizures, fines, and carrier refusals. This guide outlines the most common failure points and provides actionable steps to keep your DG shipments moving through customs smoothly in the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia.

1. Documentation Failures: The Top Cause of Seizures

The Problem:
Customs and carriers will seize shipments if the Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) is missing, incorrect, or inconsistent with the manifest. Missing UN numbers, proper shipping names, or required test reports for batteries are common reasons for immediate refusal.

The Solution:

• Create a DG Checklist: For every DG SKU, list the UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, packing group, and net quantity.

• Prepare a Compliant DGD: Complete the Dangerous Goods Declaration accurately and include a signed shipper’s declaration of compliance. Attach all required safety data sheets (SDS/MSDS) and test reports.

• Pre-File Documents: Send the DGD to your carrier and customs broker 48-72 hours before departure for pre-approval.

• Follow Battery Rules: For lithium batteries, strictly adhere to IATA rules on state-of-charge, labeling, and required markings like “Cargo Aircraft Only.”

Client Case:
A gadget seller had pallets consistently detained for incomplete paperwork. After implementing a mandatory DG checklist and pre-filing DGDs, their shipments began clearing documentation checks without delay.

2. Incorrect Packaging & Labeling: Avoid Physical Rejection

The Problem:
Using non-certified packaging, missing hazard labels, or incorrect orientation marks will get your shipment declared unsafe. This leads to immediate seizure or return to origin, as air (IATA) and sea (IMDG) rules differ.

The Solution:

• Use Certified Packaging: Ensure all packaging is UN-approved and certified for your specific DG according to IATA (air) or IMDG (sea) rules.

• Apply Labels Correctly: Place hazard labels, handling marks, and overpack labels visibly on every outer package.

• Use Certified Packers: Employ certified DG packers and maintain photos and certificates of compliance in your shipment file.

• Verify Supplier Compliance: Require suppliers to attest that DG was packed correctly at origin.

Client Case:
An industrial supplier avoided a port seizure during an audit by switching to a certified packer and providing full documentation and photos that matched the physical load.

3. Modal & Routing Mistakes: Choose the Right Carrier

The Problem:
Many dangerous goods are prohibited on passenger aircraft or have specific stowage requirements. Routing a DG shipment on an incompatible service causes refusal and return-to-origin, often after customs has already intercepted it.

The Solution:

• Check Permissibility Early: Confirm if your DG is allowed by air or sea and choose cargo-only carriers if required.

• Get Written Confirmation: Ensure your forwarder provides written confirmation that they accept the shipment under current regulations.

• Consider Specialized Carriers: For complex or large DG consignments, use specialized DG carriers or charters and secure appropriate insurance.

Client Case:
A company attempting to ship large lithium batteries on a standard airline had them refused at check-in. By switching to a cargo-only airline and pre-agreeing on documentation, subsequent shipments were accepted immediately.

4. Customs Pre-Filing & Local Regulations

The Problem:
Customs authorities require detailed pre-arrival data. Failure to pre-file security declarations or secure local permits for regulated goods invites seizures and prolonged holds for agency checks (e.g., environmental, safety).

The Solution:

• Pre-File Accurately: Submit full manifest and DG details in advance according to destination rules (e.g., ICS2 for the EU).

• Check Local Permits: Research and submit any required permits or prior notices to local agencies (like the EPA or CPSC) before shipment arrival.

• Use Bonded Facilities: When possible, use bonded storage to allow time for documentation correction without incurring immediate demurrage or seizure risk.

Client Case:
An EU-bound container was flagged for missing DG details in the pre-filed entry. Submitting a corrected filing and paying a small inspection fee released it in 48 hours instead of weeks.

5. Your Rapid Recovery Playbook for Detained Shipments

The Problem:
A slow response to a detention multiplies costs and risks permanent seizure. Without a clear owner and pre-prepared dossier, resolving the issue becomes exponentially harder and more expensive.

The Solution:
Implement a 4-Step Emergency SOP:

1. 1-Hour Audit: Immediately review all documents (DGD, MSDS, certificates) for errors.

2. Escalate: Call your broker and carrier instantly with all digital documents ready.

3. Decide: Choose to correct and refile, apply for conditional release, or recall the shipment.

4. Learn: Log the root cause and update your checklists and templates to prevent recurrence.

• Keep a Dossier Ready: Have a digital folder for every DG shipment containing the DGD, MSDS, packing certificates, and photos for immediate submission.

Client Case:
A shipper avoided full seizure and massive demurrage by executing their 1-hour audit and providing all required technical documentation to port authorities within hours, securing a conditional release.

We Specialize in Dangerous Goods Logistics

Navigating DG customs clearance requires expertise. Our comprehensive checklists, certified packing partners, and up-to-date knowledge of IATA/IMDG rules ensure your hazardous shipments comply and clear customs without delay.

Get Your Free DG Compliance Checklist

Don’t risk seizures and delays.

Click here to schedule a free dangerous goods consultation.

Email your shipment details (origin, destination, UN numbers, and product weight) to Hxin80377@gmail.com. We’ll send you a lane-specific compliance checklist, pre-filing requirements, and a recovery playbook to protect your shipments.