Why Use UN Certified Fuel Drums?
Fuel, gasoline, petrol and diesel are hazardous substances that require specialised packaging to prevent:
- Fire hazards
- Fuel contamination
- Environmental spills & leaks
- Regulatory penalties
Using plastic, aluminium, composite or steel UN approved fuel drums ensures safe containment and transportation of flammable liquids.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Fuel Drum
When choosing a suitable packaging for fuel, consider the following key factors to ensure compliance:
- What fuel type will you be transporting? Identify your substance.
- What is your mode of transport? You must refer to the relevant mode of transport regulations to ensure you are transporting your substance compliantly.
- Which packaging is permitted? Refer to the relevant packing instruction (PI) for your substance to see permitted packaging and capacity allowances.
- Are there any other previsions? Check any special provisions.
- Can you ship by LQ or EQ? Alternative packaging requirements are permitted.
- Is it compatible? Shippers must check the compatibility of the substance with the intended packaging.
Shop Durable Fuel Drums for Petrol, Diesel & More
With over 40 years of expertise in the manufacturing and supply of UN approved fuel drums and packaging for other hazardous materials, we offer durable, compliant solutions for your packaging needs.
Fast UK wide delivery. Shop today or speak to our experts for advice on the right packaging for your dangerous goods.
Fuel Drum FAQs
UN approved fuel drums are specifically designed containers that comply with UN recommendations for the safe transport of hazardous materials, including flammable fuels.
These drums undergo rigorous testing for durability, safety and resistance to environmental factors, ensuring they meet strict performance requirements in UN regulations such as IATA, ADR & IMDG.
Using UN approved fuel drums for petrol and diesel significantly reduces the risk of accidents, spills and environmental damage.
The UN Specification Mark on a fuel drum is a key identifier for its certification.
For example, 1H1 represents a plastic drum with a non-removable head approved for the transport of ‘appropriate’ hazardous substances, including fuel such as gasoline or diesel.
This marking identifies that the drum has passed relevant performance tests set out in dangerous goods regulations.
No, you can ship a number of fuels that are on the list of dangerous goods without the use of UN approved packaging if they are in Limited Quantities (LQ) or Excepted Quantities (EQ).
Shippers must correctly refer to the substance’s Packaging Instructions for permitted LQ and EQ packaging.
UN approved fuel drums are designed to ship a variety of hazardous liquids, including petrol and diesel.
Shippers must correctly identify their substance, refer to the relevant packing instruction to identify suitable packaging and ensure their substance is compatible with the chosen packaging material.
Common types of fuels that can be shipped in UN approved fuel drums include:
-
Gasoline or Petrol (UN1203)
-
Diesel Fuel (UN1202)
-
Kerosene (UN1223)
-
Fuel, aviation, turbine engine (UN1863)
-
Petroleum Distillates n.o.s (UN1268)
Our UN approved fuel drums come in a wide range of sizes to accommodate various needs.
At Air Sea Containers, our fuel drums range in size from smaller 125ml and 11L drums (ideal for fuel samples) to larger capacities such as 210L drums, often used in industrial and commercial settings.
Yes, UN approved fuel drums are versatile and can be used to ship a variety of hazardous materials beyond just fuel.
However, it’s important to ensure that the drum is suitable and compatible with the specific substance you intend to ship.
Always check the packing instructions for permitted packaging and capacity information. It is the shipper’s responsibility to confirm the substance is compatible with the packaging (e.g., plastic HDPE for corrosive chemicals).
Yes, UN approved fuel drums are compliant with international transport regulations, meaning they are safe for air, sea and road transportation, including shipping from the UK.
Always check with the relevant mode of transport regulations and the specific requirements for your destination country.
Yes, most UN approved fuel drums are stackable.
However, they must be stacked securely to prevent them from falling or tipping over, and you must ensure that you follow the recommended weight and stacking limits.
If you’re looking for a suitable alterative solution to drums, we also have a range of jerricans which may be suitable for your needs. You can browse our range of plastic jerricans here and our tin jerricans here.