Limited Quantity Dangerous Goods
Shippers may use the term "limited quantity dangerous goods" to refer to shipping small amounts of hazardous materials. These packages, when kept within specific quantity limits per inner and outer packaging, qualify for regulatory relief under IATA and ICAO guidelines.
Why Use Limited Quantity?
This method poses lower transport risk and allows shippers to benefit from packaging and labeling exemptions, reducing costs while maintaining safety.
Permitted DG Classes
- Class 2 – Gases: UN 1950, UN 2037
- Class 3 – Flammable Liquids: Packing Groups II & III, UN 3478
- Class 4 – Flammable Solids: UN 3476, divisions 4.1 & 4.3
- Class 5 – Oxidizers & Peroxides: Division 5.1 & 5.2 (kits only)
- Class 6 – Toxic Substances: Division 6.1, Packing Groups II & III
- Class 8 – Corrosives: Packing Groups II & III
- Class 9 – Miscellaneous: UN 1941, UN 1990, UN 2071, UN 3077, UN 3082, UN 3316, UN 3334, UN 3335, ID 8000.
Packaging Requirements
Limited quantity packages must follow general packing instructions listed in IATA DGR Table 4.2, identified by prefix “Y”. Max weight per package: 30 kg. Single packaging is not allowed.
Performance Tests
- Drop Test: Must withstand a 1.2 m drop onto a rigid surface.
- Stacking Test: Must endure 24-hour stacking pressure equivalent to 3m height.
Example: Acetal, UN 1088
For Acetal, UN 1088, the total net quantity per package must not exceed 1 liter. Inner packaging limits:
- Glass: 0.5 liter
- Metal: 0.5 liter
- Plastic: 0.5 liter
Where Does the Packaging Info Come From?
Each dangerous good has a specific packing instruction. For Acetal, UN 1088, the instruction is Y341. You can find this in the IATA DGR manual, Edition 66, Section 5 – Packing.
Shipping 2 Liters of Acetal
Option 1: Use the limited quantity provision, but split the shipment into two packages, each not exceeding 1 liter.
Option 2: Use UN specification packaging for passenger aircraft, which allows up to 5 liters per package. This packaging must be tested and bear a UN mark.
Limited Quantity Package Marking
Each dangerous goods package must display:
- Proper shipping name
- UN or ID number
- Shipper and consignee name and address
- Net quantity of dangerous goods
- Limited Quantity mark
Hazard Labels
Refer to the IATA DGR Table 4.2. For Acetal, UN 1088, the required label is a flammable liquid label.
Handling Labels
Depending on the substance, a package orientation label is required for inner packaging of 120ml or less (per IATA DGR ed64).
Example Package Layout
For Acetal, UN 1088, refer to IATA DGR Table 4.2. The image below shows how columns A, B, E, D, and H are marked on a Limited Quantity package.
Summary
Shippers may use the Limited Quantity provision for small amounts of dangerous goods. This exemption simplifies packaging and labeling requirements. However, Class 1 explosives are excluded, and some states or airlines may restrict its use.