Why Are Some Items Classified as Dangerous Goods?

 

Many everyday items are classed as Dangerous Goods under international shipping regulations because they can pose risks during transport. While it’s obvious that hazardous materials such as toxic chemicals, radioactive substances, or explosives require special handling, many common household products are also restricted because they can become dangerous under certain conditions—especially when transported by air.

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Below are some of the most commonly misunderstood items that are classified as dangerous goods and what makes them hazardous to ship.

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1. Perfume and Fragrances

 

Shipping perfume internationally can be challenging. Postal services such as Royal Mail (UK) and USPS (USA) often prohibit or restrict perfumes, and packages containing them may be seized or destroyed.

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Why perfume is considered dangerous:

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• Perfume contains flammable liquids (alcohol-based), making it a fire risk.

• If a bottle leaks or breaks, the flammable vapor can ignite.

• Air transport increases the risk due to pressure changes and temperature variations.

 

Because of these hazards, many couriers will not ship perfume unless you use a specialist approved carrier.

 

2. Aerosols

 

Aerosol cans are another common item that people try to ship without realizing they are heavily regulated. Attempting to mail aerosols may result in the package being stopped by Royal Mail, USPS, or your courier.

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Why aerosols are dangerous to ship:

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• They often contain flammable or toxic substances.

• All aerosols contain compressed gas, which can explode under heat or pressure.

• Toxic aerosols could endanger aircraft crew or logistics workers if released.

• Flammable aerosols pose a serious fire hazard.

 

Because of these multiple risks, aerosols are tightly controlled within dangerous goods transport regulations.

 

3. Nail Varnish / Nail Polish / Paint

 

Most postal services classify nail varnish and household paint as hazardous materials due to their chemical composition.

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Why nail varnish and paint are restricted:

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• These products typically contain flammable solvents.

• Leaks during air transport can create vapour that ignites easily.

• Couriers will only transport these items if the sender is an approved dangerous goods shipper, such as DG Parcel.

 

Whether you're sending a small bottle of nail polish or a tin of paint, the same safety rules apply.

 

4. Lithium-Ion Batteries

 

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in devices like laptops, mobile phones, cameras, and tablets. Despite their everyday use, they are one of the most tightly regulated dangerous goods in international shipping.

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Why lithium-ion batteries are dangerous:

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• They can overheat, catch fire, or even explode under certain conditions.

• Damaged, faulty, or loose batteries present the highest risks.

• Fires involving lithium batteries are extremely difficult to extinguish.

 

Shipping restrictions depend on:

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• The Watt-hour (Wh) rating of the battery.

• Whether the battery is:

  • Loose,

  • Built into the device, or

  • Packed with the device.

• The total weight of the batteries in the shipment.

• Whether the shipment can travel on a passenger aircraft or must be shipped on a cargo aircraft only.

• Destination-specific rules, which vary by courier and country.

 

Because of these complexities, many couriers only accept lithium-ion batteries from trained and certified dangerous goods shippers.

 

Need to Ship Dangerous Goods Safely?

 

Shipping dangerous goods requires compliance with international regulations, proper packaging, and correct documentation. Using a specialist dangerous goods courier ensures your shipment is handled safely and legally, helping you avoid delays, fines, or destroyed parcels.

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