UK
UN approved fibreboard boxes are one of the most widely used packaging solutions for transporting dangerous goods across the globe.
When it comes to transporting dangerous goods, UN fibreboard boxes must meet strict UN regulatory standards and pass performance tests set out in the UN recommendations of transporting dangerous goods regulations, this is to ensure that they can withstand the rigors of transport while protecting both the contents and the public.
At Air Sea Containers, we specialise in UN fibreboard box testing and are a UKAS accredited test laboratory and authorised by the VCA (Vehicle Certification Agency) to conduct performance testing for UN packaging. We offer end to end support, from initial consultation and testing through to certification management and revalidation.
We can test your 4G & 4GV boxes.
What’s Involved in Testing UN Fibreboard Boxes
UN testing for fibreboard boxes (also referred to as UN combination packaging or 4G & 4GV boxes involves a series of performance tests and specification checks designed to ensure packaging integrity under real world transport conditions. These tests take into account the substance type, S/L, relative density and packing group of the contents being transported to name a few.
Drop Test
Simulates real world handling and accidental drops.
Number of Samples: 5
- Drop Heights:
- Packing Group I (high danger): 1.8 m
- Packing Group II (medium danger): 1.2 m
- Packing Group III (low danger): 0.8 m
- Infectious substances: 9 m
- Drop Orientations:
- Flat on bottom, top, long side, short side, and on a corner
- Conditioning: At least 24 hours at controlled temperature and humidity; for plastic inners, contents cooled to -18°C or lower.
- Pass Criteria: No damage that affects safety or leads to leakage.
Stack Test
Assesses how well the box performs under pressure from stacked loads.
Number of Samples: 3
- Load: Equivalent to the total weight of identical packages in a 3m high stack
- Duration: 24 hours
- Conditioning: At least 24 hours at controlled temperature and humidity; for plastic inners, contents cooled to -18°C or lower.
- Pass Criteria: No leakage, structural failure, or distortion affecting safety
Material Specification Checks
Ensures consistency in packaging quality and compliance.
Typical inspection includes and records the specifications of:
- Material thickness
- Fluting
- Grammage
- Dimensions
- Closure methods
This ensures all future production runs replicate the packaging that passed the original UN testing.
What We Need from You
To carry out UN testing, we require:
- 9 boxes from the same batch (identical in material and design)
- The closure method and material (e.g. tape)
- Details of the contents, including the substance the box is intended to carry
- Inner packaging (if applicable) i.e. inner bottles, partitioning, cushioning and absorbents to be included in testing
Our Testing Services
At Air Sea Containers, we offer a full suite of UN fibreboard box testing services, including:
- UN Certification Testing: We test your prototype or production boxes according to UN performance testing standards.
- Revalidation: Every 5 years UN approved packaging needs revalidating. Send us your UN Approved Packaging, and we can conduct specification checks on your packaging and liaise with the VCA for re-issue of UN certification.
- Capability Testing: We can conduct testing where UN approval is not required, but capability may be required, such as fibreboard boxes for Limited Quantities. Send us your packaging and we’ll do the rest
- Customer Made Fibreboard Boxes: We can design, develop, test, coordinate UN certification, manufacture and provide ongoing maintenance of UN certification. We will manage the entire process for you, including stock holding options.
- Advisory Support: Our experts can identify potential failure points early to save time and cost in the certification process.
Once testing is complete and passes all criteria, we submit the final report to the VCA, who will review the report and once approved will issue the UN certification.
Why UN Certification Matters
Gaining UN approval ensures your packaging is fit to transport hazardous materials safely and legally. It:
- Verifies packaging strength and performance quality
- Ensures compliance with UN regulations
- Minimises the risk of product loss, environmental harm, or injury
- Demonstrates professionalism and due diligence to your supply chain partners
Get in Touch
UN fibreboard box testing is a complex but essential step in safely transporting dangerous goods. At Air Sea Containers, we simplify the process while ensuring every box meets the required standards.
Contact us today for expert support with UN packaging tests, capability testing or revalidation.
