Guide to International Aerosol Storage and Shipping Compliance

Professional aerosols, ranging from industrial lubricants and cleaning agents to paints and insecticides, are indispensable tools across numerous global industries. However, the very properties that make them effective—being pressurized, often flammable, and sometimes containing hazardous ingredients—also classify them as “dangerous goods”.

For businesses, non-compliance is not an option. It can lead to catastrophic safety incidents, severe legal penalties, significant financial losses, and irreparable damage to a company’s reputation. This article delves into the critical compliance frameworks and best practices governing Aerosol shipping and Aerosol storage.

The movement of aerosols across international borders is primarily regulated by globally recognized dangerous goods codes. The first step to compliance is correct classification.

Under the UN Model Regulations, aerosols are universally classified under Class 2 (Gases), specifically assigned to the entry UN 1950 Aerosols. They are further subdivided based on hazardous properties:

• Division 2.1 (Flammable): Contains more than 45% flammable components by mass or has a heat of combustion ≥ 30 kJ/g. This is the most common classification for professional aerosols.
• Division 2.2 (Non-flammable, non-toxic): Such as whipped cream or non-flammable insecticides.
• Division 2.3 (Toxic): Aerosols containing a toxic component.

This classification dictates all subsequent requirements, including packaging, labeling, and documentation.

Aerosols must be transported in packaging designed to safely contain pressure and prevent leakage.

• UN-Certified Packaging: Aerosol cans (inner packaging) must be secured within strong outer packaging that is tested and certified to UN standards (drop, stack, and pressure tests).
• Pressure Relief: Packaging must be designed to prevent dangerous pressure build-up if exposed to fire, often requiring a means of venting.
• Marking and Labeling: Every package must be clearly marked with the proper shipping name (“Aerosols”), UN number (“UN 1950”), and the applicable hazard class label (e.g., the flame symbol for Division 2.1).

The mode of transport dictates the specific rules:

• Air Transport: Governed by the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). These are the most restrictive rules, with strict quantity limitations and frequent prohibitions on passenger aircraft.
  • Reference Link: IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations
• Maritime Transport: Governed by the IMDG Code issued by the IMO, which provides detailed instructions on stowage and segregation from incompatible goods.
• Road and Rail: In Europe, ADR and RID apply. In the US, domestic transport falls under the DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR).

Once aerosols reach their destination, proper Aerosol storage is paramount to maintain product integrity and ensure workplace safety. Failure here can be just as dangerous as failures during transport.

2.1 Storage Facility Design and Location

An ideal storage facility should be:

• Well-Ventilated: Natural or mechanical ventilation is essential to disperse potential flammable or toxic vapors.
• Fire-Resistant & Safe: Constructed of fire-resistant materials and equipped with automatic fire suppression systems (e.g., sprinklers, foam).
• Isolated: Storage areas should be located away from main production facilities, offices, and ignition sources. Many companies use dedicated, detached warehouses or fire-walled compartments.

2.2 Segregation and Stacking

• Segregation: Aerosols, especially flammable ones, must be stored away from other hazard classes like oxidizers and corrosives to prevent severe incidents during a fire.
• Stable Stacking: Pallets must be robust, and stacking heights should not exceed manufacturer recommendations to prevent collapsing and can damage.
• Temperature Control: Areas must be kept cool and dry, avoiding direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent pressure build-up and rupture.

2.3 Operational Procedures and Risk Management

• Risk Assessment: Conduct formal assessments to identify hazards and implement control measures.
• Inventory Management: Use a “first-in, first-out” (FIFO) system to prevent stock degradation.
• Emergency Preparedness: Clear signage (e.g., “Flammable”) must be visible. Staff must be trained in emergency procedures, and spill kits should be readily available.
• Professional Reference: NFPA 30B: Code for the Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol Products – A key standard for storage in North America.

Regulations are only effective if people understand and follow them. Comprehensive training for all personnel is a legal requirement.

• Shipping Documentation: A Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) must accompany international shipments, certifying proper classification and packaging. Errors here are a common cause of rejection.
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS): A foundational document for safety. Section 14 specifically covers transport information.

The international supply chain for professional aerosols demands a meticulous and proactive approach to compliance. Aerosol shipping and Aerosol storage are two sides of the same coin, essential for safeguarding human life and ensuring business continuity. By rigorously applying international regulations and robust storage protocols, companies can successfully navigate this complex landscape. In the world of dangerous goods, compliance is the cornerstone of operational excellence.

1. Q: Can you introduce your company?
A: We are a leading Chinese manufacturer with over 30 years of expertise in producing high-quality aerosol products. Our core product lines include pu foam, portable camping stoves and gas canisters, air fresheners, household insecticides, and spray paints, primarily packaged in tinplate cans.

2. Q: What are your main product categories? 

A: We specialize in:  

• Building & Construction: pu polyurethane foam 

• Outdoor & Camping: Portable Canister Stoves and Butane Fuel Canisters.

• Household & DIY: Air Fresheners, Household Insecticides, and Spray Paints.

3. Q: Can I request a product sample?
A: We regret that we cannot provide product samples. Due to the hazardous nature of our goods (classified as dangerous for transport), shipping them as small parcels is strictly prohibited by international regulations.

4. Q: How can I evaluate your product quality without a sample?

A: While we cannot ship physical samples, we provide comprehensive support for your evaluation. This includes detailed product specifications, high-resolution images, videos, and all necessary certificates and test reports to verify our quality and compliance.

5. Q: How can I get a price quote?
A: Please contact us with your target product(s), desired specifications, and the intended quantity. We will provide a competitive and all-inclusive FOB or CIF quote based on your requirements.

6. Q: What is your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?

A: Our standard MOQ is one full 20-foot or 40-foot container load (FCL). This policy is in place due to the hazardous classification of our products, which mandates transport as full container loads.

7. Q: Can you provide the necessary shipping documents for dangerous goods?
A: Yes, we are fully experienced in handling hazardous goods logistics. We provide all mandatory documentation, including the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), Dangerous Goods Declaration, and other required certificates for smooth customs clearance and transport.