IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations 2025: Key Updates and Changes

The 66th edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) incorporates amendments from the ICAO Dangerous Goods Panel. Explore the significant changes for 2025, including new rules for sodium-ion batteries, updated classifications, and more—essential for safe air transport of hazardous materials.

What's New in the 2025 IATA DGR

The updates focus on enhancing safety and compliance. Below are the key changes:

Section 1—Applicability

  • 1.2.7—Exceptions: Added provisions for data loggers and cargo tracking devices with non-conforming batteries.

Section 2—Limitations

  • 2.3—Dangerous Goods Carried by Passengers or Crew: Updated provisions for mobility aids and clarified no Watt-hour limit for lithium-ion batteries in aids.
  • 2.8.1—State Variations: Added variations from Belarus and Chile; significant updates from Canada.
  • 2.8.3—Operator Variations: New variations from Air Zimbabwe, Plus Ultra, TAAG Angola; amendments to existing ones.

Section 3—Classification

  • 3.1.1.2: Aligned definitions with UN Model Regulations.
  • 3.4.1.1.1.3: Updated terminology for "metal powders."
  • 3.4.1.1.3.3: Added solids that may cause fire through friction.
  • 3.6.2.2.2.1: Updated Category A pathogens list (e.g., mpox virus).
  • 3.9.2.5.5: Expanded exceptions for ready-to-administer pharmaceuticals, including vaccines.
  • 3.9.2.7: Added classification criteria for sodium-ion batteries.

Section 4—Identification

  • 4.2—List of Dangerous Goods: New entries include UN 0514 (Fire suppressant dispersing devices, Division 1.4S), UN 3559 (Class 9), UN 3554 (Gallium), UN 3551–3552 (Sodium-ion batteries), UN 3556–3558 (Battery-powered vehicles).
  • 4.4—Special Provisions: Amendments to A40, A69, A88, A99, A146, A154 (sodium-ion batteries); A107 (environmentally hazardous substances); A144 (aircraft limitations); A185, A214 (vehicle requirements); A190 (neutron detectors). New provisions A226–A233 for detonators, sodium-ion batteries, nitrocellulose filters, and fire suppressants.

Section 5—Packing

  • 5.2.0.8: Amended to protect valves of cylinders and pressure receptacles during transport.

Additional Updates

  • Battery Marking: Lithium battery mark renamed to “BATTERY mark” to include sodium-ion batteries.
  • Class 9 Hazard Label: Updated to cover sodium-ion batteries.
  • Airway Bill: Mandatory “associated DGD” from January 1, 2025.
  • Battery Shipping Regulations (BSR): Consolidated for lithium, NiMH, and dry-cell batteries; transitional guidelines for lithium-powered vehicles until March 31, 2025.

Key Implications for Shippers

These updates require shippers to adapt processes for compliance:

  • Sodium-Ion Batteries: Adopt new UN numbers and packing instructions; update labels and documentation.
  • Documentation: Include “associated DGD” on airway bills to avoid delays.
  • Training and Labels: Train staff on new classifications; update labels for batteries and hazards.
  • Transitional Periods: Leverage flexibility for vehicle shipments until March 31, 2025.
  • Overall Compliance: Review State and Operator variations; align with expanded exceptions for devices and pharmaceuticals.

Conclusion

The 2025 IATA DGR updates prioritize safety in air transport of dangerous goods, with a focus on emerging technologies like sodium-ion batteries. Hazpack Solutions offers expert DG packaging and logistics services to ensure compliance.

Need assistance? Request a quote or contact our team for guidance on 2025 regulations.

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