No. The IMDG Code sets the minimum rules, but each shipping line decides what dangerous goods it will carry. Most large container lines accept common classes such as 3, 8 and 9, but they refuse some products and restrict others by route, vessel, port and season.
Every DG booking needs approval from the line's dangerous goods desk before the container is loaded. Approval is not automatic, even for a product the line has carried before.
Why a line may refuse a booking
- The line has its own list of prohibited or restricted products, often stricter than the IMDG Code. Some classes, such as explosives, certain organic peroxides and some self-reactive substances, are commonly refused or need special approval.
- The vessel on that sailing has no suitable stowage space, or the DG slots are already full.
- A port on the route, including a transhipment port, does not accept that class or limits how long it can stay in the terminal.
- The product needs temperature control or special stowage the vessel cannot provide.
- The documents are incomplete, or the SDS and declaration disagree.
- The line has had incidents with similar cargo and has tightened its rules.
Why the rules have tightened
Container ship fires have been linked to mis-declared or poorly packed dangerous goods. Since then, many lines have increased checks, added screening of booking descriptions and raised penalties for undeclared DG. A shipper who describes a DG product as general cargo can face large penalties and a ban from that line.
This is good for safety but means your shipment needs more lead time. Ask your forwarder for the line's current acceptance rules for your UN number before you agree a delivery date with your own customers.
Routes and ports matter
Indian chemical exports often tranship through hub ports before reaching Europe or the US. Each hub has its own rules on DG classes and dwell time. A product accepted at the load port may still be refused for a route through a hub that restricts that class.
Some Indian terminals also require certain DG classes to come straight from the factory to the ship, rather than wait in the yard. That affects trucking and timing. Our guide to Gujarat ports for chemical cargo covers the main options.
How to improve your chances
- Get a correct SDS and draft DG declaration ready before you request space.
- Book early, especially on routes where DG space is tight.
- Use a forwarder with a strong DG desk and ask it to check acceptance with more than one line.
- Be flexible on routing and port, since a different hub may accept what another refuses.
- Keep the packaging and marks exactly as declared, so the container passes any inspection.
Next step
The shipper and its forwarder are responsible for securing an approved DG booking. We make sure the product, packaging and paperwork are right before the container is stuffed. To plan a DG shipment, book a free sourcing review.