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UN Approved 4GV Hazmat Boxes

Our 4GV Fiberboard Boxes have been designed, tested and UN approved for the safe and compliant transportation of hazmat goods.

Combine our 4GV outer packaging with suitable inner packaging to create UN approved combination packaging.  Our 4GV packaging, allows you to select your own suitable inners for your hazmat substance.


4GV Packaging Explained

4GV boxes are a popular choice for shippers wishing to use their own inner packaging containers, unlike 4G boxes, which require the use of specific approved with inners.

Our range of 4GV fiberboard boxes allows you to ship up to a maximum gross weight of 65Kg. All of our 4GV boxes come complete with plastic liner bag. Vermiculite and Biodegradable Chips  (supplied separately) will also be required to provide cushioning for the inner packagings during transport.

If you’re unsure as to how much vermiculite you need, then contact us for assistance. We’ll be able to calculate how much you will need by identifying the void space within your packaging.

4GV Hazmat Boxes for Non-Specific Inner packagings

Assembly Information

Air Sea USA have a unique feature on all their combination packaging – Assembly information QR codes.

UN Approved 4GV packaging must be packed and assembled in the same way as it was during the approval testing process; if packed incorrectly, you will invalidate the UN certification. That’s why each of the products in our 4GV range feature QR codes, which, once scanned take you direct to the products assembly instructions to guide you through the packing process for each product, clarifying weights, taping methods, cushioning requirements etc for assembling the 4GV box compliantly.

4GV Hazmat Boxes & UN Approved Packaging Requirements

UN certified packaging is an essential aspect of shipping hazardous goods. Dangerous Goods Regulations for transporting hazardous materials have been established in order to ensure safe transportation and prevent accidents.

Requirements in the modal regulations include the use of approved materials, specific packaging designs, and performance testing procedures. The packaging must be designed to withstand normal conditions of transport as set out in the regulations, such as temperature fluctuations and physical stress.

To transport hazardous goods compliantly, shippers must use packaging that has been specifically tested and approved for the type of hazardous material being transported. Packaging includes 4G hazmat boxes and 4GV hazmat boxes, which are specially designed and approved for shipping hazardous goods.

When UN packaging is required, the packaging chosen must be marked with the UN specification mark, which indicates the type of packaging, the maximum gross weight and year of manufacture and be permitted in the relevant Packing Instructions for the HazMat being shipped. By using UN approved packaging, shippers can ensure the safe and compliant transport of hazardous materials.

Inner Packaging for 4GV Hazmat Boxes

4GV hazmat boxes are versatile containers designed for shipping hazardous materials, offering flexibility in inner packaging options. And unlike 4G UN certified packaging, 4GV boxes allow for non-specific inner packaging, meaning shippers can choose the most suitable inner containers for their HazMat.

4GV hazmat boxes are tested to meet Packing Group I standards, making them suitable for materials in Packing Groups I, II, and III.

It is the shippers responsibility to ensure compatibility of the packaging and the hazardous material.

Hazard Labels for 4GV Hazmat Boxes

We also have a range of hazard labels in 100mm x 100mm and 250mm x 250mm sizes available to ensure that your hazardous goods packaging remains compliant.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, just ask! See our Contact page for further details and the FAQ section with some helpful information.

4GV Hazmat Boxes Frequently Asked Questions

4G in the UN Specification Mark indicates that the packaging is a Fiberboard Box, 4 =  box and G = Fiberboard.

The letter ‘V’ following the packaging code signifies a “special packaging” conforming to a specific set of requirements as set out in 6.1.5.1.7 of the UN Model Regulations.

For example, gross mass of the inner packagings rules and rules relating to the testing of the packaging, including use of inner types, drop heights & stack test requirements.


4G packaging is tested and approved with specific inner packaging, these inner packaging types must be used in the 4G packaging when shipping hazardous goods, whereas 4GV packaging can be used with appropriate non-specific inner packaging of the shippers choice.


Classified as a box, UN Approved 4GV hazmat boxes can come in many sizes.

We have a range of 4GV hazmat boxes, such as our 4GV/X5/S box, which must be shipped with vermiculite as an absorbent packaging material.

If you do not wish to use vermiculite, you can select a 4GV box from our eco range, such as our 4GV/X4/S box, which are approved to be use with biodegradable chips as an absorbent cushioning material.

At Air Sea USA, we can also facilitate the creation of custom made packaging. If you are currently using packaging that isn’t and efficient size or design to accommodate your shipments, you may be able to save money by commissioning custom made packaging.

Creating custom packaging designed to your exact packaging requirements may improve shipping costs. It is perfect for creating effective 4GV packaging for chemicals and other hazardous goods.



Is a 4GV cardboard box the same thing as a 4GV Fibreboard box?

Whilst fibreboard is a specific class of cardboard, some people use the terms interchangeably.

Officially the correct terminology used in the transport regulations is Fibreboard not Cardboard.



4GV hazmat boxes can be used for the shipment of liquids or solids.

They are permitted for the use of transporting packing group I, which means that they are therefore permitted to be used for less hazardous items in packing groups II and III as well.

Also remember that each box has a maximum gross weight limit that will vary from box to box.

One of the special packaging requirements relating to weight for “V” variants is ‘the total combined gross mass of inner packaging shall not exceed one-half the gross mass of inner packaging used for the drop test’.

Shippers must refer to the assembly instructions for the weight information.



Because 4GV boxes are approved for use with various inners, this means that they must be approved for use with the most fragile inner materials, this is why they are tested with glass inners.

They are also drop tested to the highest standards suitable for packaging group I items which is with a height of 1.8 metres.

Stack tests must also be performed for 4GV hazmat boxes to be approved, and this must be performed whilst the box is empty of inner materials to ensure that the outer fiberboard material is under pressure without support from goods packed within.

Relevant 4GV packaging assembly information can be found on any of our 4GV product pages or on the product itself using the preprinted QR code.

To be UN certified, 4GV hazmat boxes must pass:

  • Drop tests – Dropped from 1.8 meters with fragile glass inners.
  • Stack tests – Tested to ensure the package can handle stacking loads.

Each box must be packed according to the Packing Instructions and manufacturer’s assembly instructions, ensuring compliance with IATA, IMDG and DOT regulations.

Yes. 4GV hazmat boxes meet the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations and are approved for air transport. They must be packed according to the PI and manufacturers assembly instructions, including proper cushioning, inner container selection, and gross weight limits.

If you are purchasing 4GV hazmat boxes for air transport, ensure:

  • UN code is compatible with packaging.
  • Packaging is permitted on the PI
  • The total package weight complies with regulations.
  • Inner packaging is properly cushioned with the approved cushioning material for the specific 4GV box, such as vermiculite.
  • Correct use of Hazard labels, marking and documentation.

Not necessarily. Many 4GV hazmat boxes require vermiculite, but there are some eco-friendly alternative cushioning materials such as biodegradable chips.

Always check the 4GV box assembly instructions.

To ensure UN compliance, follow the manufacturer’s assembly instructions, typical steps include:

  • Choose the correct inner packaging: Make sure it meets the requirements of packing instructions and is compatible with the HazMat.
  • Abide to weight restrictions: Check the PI and manufacturers assembly instructions for weight limits.
  • Use approved absorbent/cushioning material: Use the absorbent/cushioning as stated on the assembly instructions.
  • Close and seal the box: Use the approved tape size and taping method stated in the assembly instructions.
  • Apply labels and documentation: Affix hazard labels and document correctly.

Our 4GV boxes are fully compliant with dangerous goods regulations, ensuring they compliant for Dot, IMDG and IATA. We also offer eco-friendly options, providing sustainable alternatives to traditional hazmat packaging.

For those with unique requirements, custom solutions are available, allowing us to tailor packaging to meet your exact needs. Additionally, our team provides expert guidance to ensure you choose compliant packaging.

Explore our full range of 4GV hazmat boxes or contact us today for professional advice on selecting the right packaging solution for your hazardous shipments.

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