UK 
What is UN Packaging?
UN packaging is packaging that has been produced, tested and approved to safely transport dangerous goods and hazardous materials by air, road, sea and rail.
The packaging must pass a series of performance tests, it is then sent for verification to the relevant state approval authority for approval and then assigned a UN Mark which is printed on the packaging to confirm its approval.
At Air Sea Containers, our UN approved packaging is manufactured and tested to meet the requirements of the UN recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods Model Regulations, and is compliant with IATA, ADR and IMDG regulations.
We have over 700+ dangerous goods packaging solutions across:
- Boxes
- Drums
- Jerricans
- Bottles
- Specialist packaging (for lithium batteries, infectious substances and limited quantities).
Why UN Certification Is Required for Dangerous Goods
Shipping dangerous goods without the correct UN approved packaging is a regulatory and safety risk. Improper packaging can lead to:
- Spills
- Combustion
- Leaks
- Accidents during transit
These can all be a risk to transport staff, the public and the environment. UN certification exists to ensure packaging has been thoroughly tested and proven capable of safely containing hazardous materials under the potential stresses of transportation, including rough handling, stacking and exposure to different conditions.
Using UN packaging is a legal requirement for many dangerous goods classifications and non compliance can mean fines, shipment delays and also refusal by carriers. All packaging sold by Air Sea Containers is UN approved and tested to meet requirements.
Why Choose Air Sea Containers for UN Packaging?
With over 45 years of experience in dangerous goods packaging, we are recognised as a leading provider of UN packaging solutions in the UK and US.
Over 700 Packaging Solutions in Stock
We hold a comprehensive range of UN fibreboard and plywood boxes, steel drums, jerricans, specialist kits and more, ready for next-day delivery across the UK.
In-House UN Packaging Testing Lab
We have our own UKAS accredited UN packaging test lab, meaning we test and certify packaging to the standards required by UN recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. This gives our customers confidence that every product meets the performance standards to prove its capability.
Custom Made Packaging
We understand not every shipment fits in standardised products, which is why we also design and manufacture custom dangerous goods packaging solutions for businesses with unique dimensions, volumes or regulatory requirements.
Not Sure Which UN Packaging Is Needed?
Whether you need guidance on the right box type, drum size or a custom-made solution, we are always here to help.
Contact us on 151 653 1500 or fill out our enquiry form, and a member of our team will be in touch.
UN Packaging FAQs
UN approved packaging means the packaging has been tested and certified to meet the standards set out in the UN Recommendations on the transport of dangerous goods. It confirms the packaging is suitable for the safe transport of hazardous materials and carries a UN mark to indicate this.
For many types of dangerous goods, using UN packaging is a legal requirement. Whether you need it depends on the classification of your goods, the quantity being shipped and the mode of transport.
We stock a wide range of UN packaging, including:
- 4G boxes
- 4GV boxes
- 4DV boxes
- Steel, plastic, tinplate, composite and fibreboard drums
- Plastic and tin jerricans
- Aluminium and plastic bottles
- Specialist packaging for lithium batteries, infectious substances and limited quantities.
- Custom made UN packaging
Yes, we do offer next-day delivery, which is available across the UK on the majority of our range of UN packaging.
