How to Declare Dangerous Goods for Sea Freight

DFDS Freight provides reliable sea freight transport with expert Customer Service to support smooth bookings, compliance, and terminal services. Declaring Dangerous Goods (DG) correctly ensures your cargo meets safety and legal requirements. This article guides you through identifying DG cargo, compiling required documentation, and submitting a complete declaration for fast operational acceptance.

Before You Start

Confirm whether your cargo is classified as Dangerous Goods. Review product information, Safety Data Sheet (SDS), or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the UN number (e.g., UN3480 for lithium-ion batteries), class, and packing group. Gather your Booking ID, Container/Trailer number, voyage details, and all DG documentation before proceeding.

Key Information and Documentation Checklist

• Booking ID (e.g., ABC123)
• Container or Trailer ID (e.g., DFSU1234567)
• UN number/UN code (e.g., UN 1203) and proper shipping name
• Class/division and packing group
• Net quantity per package and total quantity
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS), labels, and photos (if applicable)
• Special handling notes (if any)

Steps to Declare Dangerous Goods

1. Login to the DFDS Help Center or open the Dangerous Goods webform.
2. Select the “Declare Dangerous Goods” service request.
3. Enter your Booking ID (e.g., ABC123) and Container/Trailer ID (e.g., DFSU1234567).
4. Fill in UN number/code, class, proper shipping name, packing group, quantities, and any special instructions.
5. Upload your SDS/MSDS, relevant labels, and any supporting photos or files.
6. Submit the request. Check for confirmation by email or in the Help Center.

What Happens Next

You’ll receive a case reference and DFDS Customer Service will review your declaration for operational and safety compliance. Final acceptance is subject to DFDS operational checks and authority approvals. If more information is needed, you will be contacted promptly.

When to Contact Support

• If you experience issues submitting the webform or do not receive confirmation
• If the shipment is urgent, time-sensitive, or has special cargo requirements

Conclusion: Safety and Compliance First

DFDS Freight empowers you to self-serve DG declarations efficiently. Always use correct documents and example values. Remember, this is informational guidance only—final acceptance depends on operator checks and authority rules. For urgent, unusual, or complex cases, contact Customer Service to ensure safe transport and compliance.