OneCargoKit
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UN 号、PSN、Class、PG 到底怎么查?IATA DGR 识别四件套实操手册

How Do You Look Up UN Numbers, PSN, Class, and PG? A Practical Guide to the IATA DGR "Four-Piece Set"

2026年5月27日May 27, 2026
危险品检查Hazardous Materials Inspection HS Code 查询HS Code Lookup 单位换算Unit Conversions

免责声明 — 本文仅作为物流行业知识和实操经验参考,不构成航空安全、危险品承运、法律、税务或其他专业建议。具体运输、申报、包装、装载和清关要求,请以承运人、主管机构、官方规则和专业意见为准。

客户甩过来一份 SDS,第 14 节赫然写着: > UN1993, Flammable liquid, n.o.s. (contains ethanol, isopropanol), Class 3, PG II 你看到 n.o.s. 三个字母心里一咯噔——这玩意能直接出 DGD 吗?航司会不会让你「补技术名称」?要不要再走一次包装等级验证?为什么同样是 Class 3 PG II,有的客户告诉你能走客机,有的说必须走 CAO? 这一切要回到一个最基础的问题:危险品识别是怎么走完一个完整闭环的? 不是「看一眼 SDS 就完事」,而是 UN、PSN、Class、PG 这四件套全部在 DGL 表里对齐之后才算合规。这一篇把这套查询动作完整拆给你。

一、危险品识别的「四件套」是什么

整本 IATA DGR 里所有的限运规则、PI 包装、客机/全货机限重、标签贴法、文件填法,统统都挂在这四个字段上:

字段全称它告诉你什么
UN 号UN Number(联合国编号)这个物质在全球运输体系里唯一身份证
PSNProper Shipping Name(正确运输名称)这个 UN 号在 DGD 上必须使用的法定名称
ClassHazard Class(危险类别)主要危险类型,对应 9 大类和子类
PGPacking Group(包装等级)I/II/III,决定包装强度和限重

这四个字段全部以 DGL(List of Dangerous Goods,IATA DGR 第 4.2 章)为准。任何其他来源——SDS、采购规格书、客户邮件、ChatGPT 的回答——都只是参考。出 DGD 时唯一的法定依据是 DGL。

记住这条原则,你已经避开了 60% 的合规事故。

二、DGL 表的物理结构:13 列在讲什么

DGL 是 IATA DGR 第 4.2 章那张几百页长的「大表」。每一行是一个 UN 号 + PSN 组合,每一列是一个属性。新人看一眼会以为是天书,其实只要分清楚下面这三组就行了。

列分组列名(简称)用来干什么
身份信息UN No. / PSN / Class / Subsidiary Risk / Hazard Label / PG识别这票货「是什么」
能不能走 / 走多少Excepted Qty / Limited Qty PI / Limited Qty Max决定是否能走简化规则
怎么包装、走多少Passenger PI / Passenger Max / Cargo PI / Cargo Max / Special Provisions / ERG Code实际派工核心:包装说明 + 客机/全货机限重

实战时阅读顺序也是从左到右:

`` 先看身份 → 再看豁免 → 最后看具体 PI 和限重 ``

举例:UN1170(Ethanol,乙醇),Class 3,PG II。一行扫过去你能看到:

这一行就是这票货空运合规的「身份证 + 户口本」。所有派工动作都围绕这一行展开。

三、UN 号:四件套里第一个要锁死的字段

UN 号是 4 位阿拉伯数字(少数 4 位带「ID」前缀的是 ICAO 自己分配的)。它在全球运输体系里唯一标识一种物质或物品。

UN 号的来源有三层:

  1. UN 橙皮书:联合国《关于危险货物运输的建议书》给所有运输模式提供的统一编号
  2. ICAO TI:把 UN 号搬进民航法规
  3. IATA DGR:把 UN 号 + 民航限制做成行业版本,加更多操作指引

也就是说,同一个 UN 号在海运 IMDG、公路 ADR、空运 IATA DGR 里都是同一个。你查到 UN1170 是乙醇,全模式都是乙醇。

但要注意:「同一个化学物质」不一定对应「同一个 UN 号」。常见的几个分叉点:

所以让供应商提供「准确的 UN 号 + 浓度 + 物理状态」比单纯一个 SDS 文件更有价值。

四、PSN:法定名称,不是中文别名也不是商品名

PSN(Proper Shipping Name)是 DGD 和外箱标记上必须使用的法定名称。它的核心规则有四条:

  1. 以英文为准,对应中文翻译只是参考
  2. 大小写按 DGL 表里给定的样式,特别是带括号的部分
  3. 多个名称中带「,」的部分如果含「I, II or III」「solution」「solid」「liquid」这些字眼,要按你这票货的真实情况选
  4. N.O.S. 条目要在 PSN 后面用括号补 1–2 个主要技术名称

最后一条新手最容易栽。N.O.S. = Not Otherwise Specified(非另作规定),意思是「我没在表里给你单独列条目,请你用这个通用类目,但必须告诉我主要成分」。

举例 SDS 上写「UN1993 Flammable liquid, n.o.s.」,正确的 PSN 写法应该是

`` Flammable liquid, n.o.s. (Ethanol, Isopropanol) ``

括号里补 1–2 个让收货方/航司明白主要危险来源的化学名称。如果不补这个括号,地服收单时基本会直接打回。

OneCargoKit 的 Dangerous Goods Check 在你输入 UN 号时会同时返回标准 PSN 写法和需要补技术名称的提示。配合工具内置的术语表 Glossary 可以快速对齐中英文表述,减少和海外货代沟通时的口径偏差。

五、Class 和子类:和「危险类型」绑定,不和「危险大小」绑定

Class 决定的是「这票货主要威胁是哪一种」。具体 9 大类和子类前一篇文章已经拆过,这一篇重点讲两个识别动作:

1. 主类 + 次类怎么读

DGL 表里 PSN 后面通常会跟两列:

举例 UN1796(硝酸/硫酸混合物),Class 8(腐蚀),Subsidiary Risk 5.1(氧化)。这种货外箱要贴两个标签:Class 8 主标签(写「8」),加 Class 5.1 次类标签(不写数字,只画图案)。漏贴次类标签是一线最高频的不合规之一。

2. Hazard Label 列 ≠ Class 列

DGR 表里还有一列「Hazard Label(s) or Mark(s)」,这一列直接告诉你这票货外箱上要贴哪些标签

它可能包含:

派工时直接照「Hazard Label(s)」这一列贴,不要靠自己根据 Class 推

六、PG 包装等级:决定包装强度和限重

PG(Packing Group)只有三档,越靠前危险越高:

PG危险程度对应包装等级标记一句话
IX包装件能扛 PG I 测试,也可向下用于 II、III
IIY包装件能扛 PG II 测试,也可向下用于 III
IIIZ只满足 PG III 测试

最实用的一个识别动作:你拿到一个外包装上印有 UN 规范标记的箱子,例如:

`` UN 4G/Y15/S/24/D/BAM-12345 ``

中间的「Y」就告诉你这个箱子最多用到 PG II。如果你的货是 PG I,这个箱子不能用

注意三类例外:

PG 和 PI 是一对绑定关系:DGL 表里同一个 UN 号 + 同一个 PG,对应的 PI 是固定的。改 PG 等于改 PI,等于改限重和包装。派工前一定要核对清楚 PG

七、SDS 和 DGL 不一致时,怎么办

90% 的现实场景里你会拿到一份 SDS,10% 的现实场景里这份 SDS 是错的或过时的。常见冲突场景:

冲突类型真实原因处理方法
SDS 用了旧 UN 号法规更新或 SDS 多年没更新以最新版 DGL 为准
SDS 写公路口径,把 PG II 改成了 IIIADR/IMDG/IATA 对边缘货的判定不一样以你即将走的运输模式法规为准
SDS 没写 n.o.s. 的技术名称SDS 给的是商品名,不是化学名找供应商要主要成分清单,再决定 PSN 括号怎么填
浓度边界值附近工厂自己也没搞清楚让工厂做检测出 COA,对照 DGL 浓度阈值
Class 标错SDS 是化工厂用 GHS 口径写的,GHS 危险类别 ≠ 运输 Class永远以 DGL 的 Class 列为准

底线原则SDS 是参考,DGL 是依据。任何冲突一律以 DGL 为准。SDS 上写「不是危险品」,但你在 DGL 里查到对应物质有 UN 号,仍然要按 DG 处理。

八、完整查询流程图

`` 拿到货品名称 / SDS ↓ Step 1:找到 UN 号 ├─ SDS 第 14 节有 UN 号 → 记下来 └─ SDS 没有 → 按主要化学成分 + 浓度去 DGL Index 反查 ↓ Step 2:在 DGL 表里定位行 ├─ 是否 N.O.S.?是 → 准备补技术名称 └─ 是否有多种状态/浓度?→ 按真实货品选行 ↓ Step 3:读 4 列基础信息 UN、PSN、Class(+次类)、PG ↓ Step 4:读豁免列 例外数量、限量阈值 → 判断是否能走简化规则 ↓ Step 5:读包装 + 限重列 Passenger PI / Cargo PI、单件最大 ↓ Step 6:读 Special Provisions 逐条到第 4.4 章核对 ↓ Step 7:核对 OV / SV 起运、过境、目的国 + 起运承运航司 ↓ 完成 → 出 DGD + 配标签 + 配 PI 包装 ``

派工前用 Dangerous Goods Check 跑 30 秒预筛,能把 Step 1–5 一次性出结果,剩下的 SP 和 OV/SV 再回手册仔细核对。

九、完整案例演示:一份 SDS 从拿到手到出 DGD 草稿

抽象规则讲完,看一个完整流程怎么走。下面是一票典型电商货:客户要把一批小瓶装的酒精消毒液空运到德国。

Step 0 — 客户给的信息

「100ml × 24 瓶 / 箱,乙醇含量 75%,外箱毛重 4 kg,共 60 箱,上海浦东到法兰克福,要全货机,下周三起运。」 SDS 第 14 节写的是:UN1170, Ethanol, Class 3, PG II

Step 1 — 锁 UN 号

UN1170 已经给出。但要警觉一下——75% 浓度的乙醇是属于 UN1170(乙醇 / Ethanol)还是属于 UN1987(乙醇溶液 / Ethanol solutions)?

回 DGL 查,两条 UN 行其实对应不同物理形态

按 IATA 习惯,75% 乙醇水溶液属于 UN1170,PG II。确认 SDS 的口径和 DGL 一致。

Step 2 — 读 DGL 完整行

字段取值
UN1170
PSNEthanol(或 Ethanol solution,按浓度选)
Class3
Subsidiary Risk
PGII
Excepted QuantityE2
Limited QuantityY341
Passenger PI353
Passenger Max5 L / 件
Cargo PI364
Cargo Max60 L / 件
Special Provisions见 DGR 第 4.4 章

Step 3 — 算单件量是否超 PI 限重

100ml × 24 瓶 = 2.4 L / 箱。低于 Passenger PI 353 的 5 L 上限,也低于 Cargo PI 364 的 60 L 上限。两种舱位都能走

注意 PI 353 还规定「玻璃内瓶 ≤ 1 L、塑料内瓶 ≤ 5 L」。100ml 塑料瓶完全符合。

Step 4 — 算是否能走限量(Y341)

PI Y341 一般规定单内瓶 ≤ 1 L、单件总量 ≤ 30 L。这票货 100ml × 24 瓶 = 2.4 L,完全符合限量条件。

如果走限量:贴 Y 标记 + 方向箭头,外包装等级 Y 即可,简化 DGD。 如果走完整 DG:贴 Class 3 主标签 + 方向箭头,PI 364 包装,完整 DGD。

跟客户算账:60 箱 × 2.4 L = 144 L,单瓶都是 100ml,强烈建议走 Limited Quantity——包装成本下降、文件简化、客机也能上。

Step 5 — 查 OV / SV

这一步用 Dangerous Goods Check 输入 UN1170 + 起运/目的地,可以快速过一遍是否有 SV / OV 风险点。

Step 6 — 出 DGD 草稿核心字段

`` UN/ID No.: UN1170 PSN: Ethanol (75% aqueous solution) Class or Division: 3 Subsidiary Risk: — Packing Group: II Quantity & Type: 60 fibreboard boxes × 2.4 L = 144 L net Packing Instruction: Y341 (Limited Quantity) Authorization: Limited Quantity ``

Step 7 — 外箱标贴

整票货从拿到 SDS 到出 DGD 草稿,资深操作员大概 8–10 分钟搞定。新手按上述流程跑,第一次 30 分钟,跑过 3 票之后基本也能压到 15 分钟内。

十、SDS 第 14 节到底该看哪几行

一份完整 SDS 有 16 节,其中第 14 节是「运输信息」。但 16 节里 80% 内容跟空运 DGD 无关。新人看 SDS 的最大误区是「从头读到尾」,资深操作员只盯第 14 节里这 7 行:

字段SDS 表头常见写法你要拿来做什么
UN NumberUN-No. / UN number锁 UN 号
UN Proper Shipping NameProper shipping name / Transport name对照 DGL 校 PSN
Transport Hazard Class(es)Class / Hazard Class锁主类、看是否有次类
Packing GroupPG / Packing Group锁 PG
Environmental HazardsMarine pollutant / Environmental hazard判断是否需要鱼与树标记
Special PrecautionsSpecial precautions for user看是否有温控、避光等额外要求
Transport in BulkAccording to MARPOL / IBC Code海运 IBC 才用到,空运可忽略

唯一要全文扫一眼的是第 12 节「Ecological Information」——它会告诉你这票货是否对水生生物有毒,从而决定是否需要按 UN3077/UN3082 走环境危害物质流程。

第 14 节其余几行(如 IMDG 海运代码、ADR 公路代码、ICAO 应急代码)只有当你做多式联运或要查 ERG 应急代码时才用。日常空运派工可以一眼略过。

另一个常被忽略的点:SDS 第 14 节有时会写 "Not regulated for transport / 不属于运输管制货物"。这只对 SDS 的口径有效,不等于在 IATA DGR 下也不受管制。永远以 DGL 反查为准。

十一、Special Provisions 和 OV / SV:识别动作的最后两步

很多新人查到 UN/PSN/Class/PG 就以为「识别动作做完了」。错。完整识别还有最后两步:

1. Special Provisions(SP,特殊条款)

DGL 表「Special Provisions」列里通常是若干个 A 开头的编号,例如 A1、A3、A88 等。每个编号对应 IATA DGR 第 4.4 章里的一条具体规定,可能放宽(允许更大量)也可能收紧(要求额外文件)。

实操做法:

SP 漏看的代价:你按主表数据出了 DGD,但某条 SP 要求"必须在 DGD 上加注 X 字样",地服一看缺这行字,直接退件。

2. State Variations(SV)和 Operator Variations(OV)

实操做法:

OV / SV 是 IATA DGR 改版最频繁的两部分,起运前一定要查最新版,不要凭记忆。建议每年至少一次系统性更新自己的 SV/OV 速查表。

十二、常见误区

十三、实操检查清单(DGD 草稿前 60 秒)

如果是空运货,建议同时用 AWB Filler 把空运单字段提前对齐,DGD 上的内容物描述、件数、毛重要和 AWB 完全一致。两个文件描述不一致也是地服高频卡件原因。

十四、给三类岗位的判定方法

岗位关键查询动作输出
货代操作拿 SDS / 客户委托 → 30 秒查 UN/PSN/Class/PG → 30 秒查 PI + OV/SV是否承运 + 航班建议 + DG 附加费报价
跨境电商运营上架前向供应商索取 SDS → 用 UN 号自查能否走平台物流方案上架与否、走哪条物流通道
工厂出口出厂前提供准确 SDS + 浓度规格 + UN 号让货代少返工,少改单

十五、合规与边界提醒

十六、结尾:识别动作不是「查一次」,而是「养成动作肌肉」

DG 识别看起来繁琐,本质上是一套可以训练出肌肉记忆的动作

拿到品名 → 锁 UN → 反查 DGL → 读 4 列基础 → 看豁免 → 看 PI → 看 SP → 看 OV/SV → 出 DGD

练熟之后,一票常规 DG 货从拿到 SDS 到出 DGD 草稿,资深操作员 5 分钟以内能搞定。新人之所以慢,不是手册难,而是顺序乱、字段不熟、SDS 和 DGL 关系没理清楚。

这套动作训练熟,到下一篇讲包装等级 PG I/II/III 与 PI 包装说明时,你会发现 PI 不再是「天书」,而是 DGL 已经告诉你了一切的「调用入口」。我们下一篇见。

A customer sent me an SDS, and Section 14 clearly states: > UN1993, Flammable liquid, n.o.s. (contains ethanol, isopropanol), Class 3, PG II When I saw “n.o.s.” —and my heart skipped a beat. Can this stuff be shipped directly via DGD? Will the airline ask me to “provide the technical name”? Do I need to go through the packaging group verification process again? Why, for the same Class 3 PG II classification, do some clients tell me it can be shipped on passenger aircraft, while others say it must go via CAO? All of this comes back to one fundamental question: How does the dangerous goods identification process form a complete closed loop? It’s not just a matter of “glancing at the SDS and calling it a day”; compliance is only achieved once the “four-piece set”—UN, PSN, Class, and PG—are all aligned in the DGL table. This article breaks down the entire verification process for you.

I. What Are the “Four Essential Elements” of Dangerous Goods Identification?

Every single restriction in the entire IATA DGR—including transport rules, PI packaging, weight limits for passenger and all-cargo aircraft, labeling requirements, and document completion—is tied to these four fields:

FieldFull NameWhat It Tells You
UN NumberUN Number (United Nations Number)This substance’s unique identifier in the global transportation system
PSNProper Shipping NameThe legal name that must be used with this UN number on the DGD
ClassHazard ClassPrimary hazard type, corresponding to the 9 major classes and subclasses
PGPacking GroupI/II/III, which determines packaging strength and weight limits

All four of these fields are governed exclusively by the DGL (List of Dangerous Goods, IATA DGR Chapter 4.2). Any other sources—SDS, procurement specifications, customer emails, or ChatGPT responses—are for reference only. The DGL is the sole legal basis for issuing a DGD.

By keeping this principle in mind, you’ve already avoided 60% of compliance incidents.

II. The Physical Structure of the DGL Table: What the 13 Columns Mean

The DGL is that “huge table” spanning hundreds of pages in Chapter 4.2 of the IATA DGR. Each row represents a UN number + PSN combination, and each column represents a property. At first glance, newcomers might think it’s a book of hieroglyphs, but in reality, you only need to distinguish between the following three groups.

Column GroupingsColumn Name (Abbreviation)Purpose
Identification InformationUN No. / PSN / Class / Subsidiary Risk / Hazard Label / PGIdentifies “what” this shipment is
Can it be shipped / How much can be shippedExcepted Quantity / Limited Quantity PI / Limited Quantity MaxDetermining Shipment Eligibility: Simplified Rules
How to pack it and how much can be shippedPassenger PI / Passenger Max / Cargo PI / Cargo Max / Special Provisions / ERG CodeCore of Actual Dispatch: Packaging Instructions + Passenger/All-Cargo Aircraft Weight Limits

In practice, the reading order is also from left to right:

`` 先看身份 → 再看豁免 → 最后看具体 PI 和限重 ``

Example: UN1170 (Ethanol), Class 3, PG II. At a glance, you can see:

This line serves as the “ID card and household registration book” for this shipment’s air transport compliance. All dispatch operations revolve around this line.

III. UN Number: The first field in the “four-piece set” that must be locked in

The UN number consists of 4 Arabic numerals (the few 4-digit numbers prefixed with “ID” are assigned by ICAO itself). It uniquely identifies a substance or article within the global transportation system.

The UN number has three sources:

  1. UN Orange Book: The unified numbering system provided by the United Nations “Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods” for all modes of transport
  2. ICAO TI: Incorporates UN numbers into civil aviation regulations
  3. IATA DGR: An industry-specific version combining UN numbers with civil aviation restrictions, supplemented by additional operational guidelines

In other words, the same UN number corresponds to the same substance in the IMDG Code for maritime transport, the ADR for road transport, and the IATA DGR for air transport. If you look up UN 1170 and find it is ethanol, it is ethanol across all modes of transport.

However, note that “the same chemical substance” does not necessarily correspond to “the same UN number.” Here are some common points of divergence:

Therefore, having the supplier provide the “accurate UN number + concentration + physical state” is more valuable than simply receiving an SDS document.

IV. PSN: Proper Shipping Name—not a Chinese alias or trade name

PSN (Proper Shipping Name) is the legal name that must be used on DGD and outer packaging labels. There are four core rules:

  1. The English version is authoritative; the corresponding Chinese translation is for reference only
  2. Capitalization must follow the style specified in the DGL table, especially for parts in parentheses
  3. If a name containing a comma (,) includes terms such as “I, II, or III,” “solution,” “solid,” or “liquid,” select the one that accurately describes your shipment
  4. For N.O.S. entries, add 1–2 primary technical names in parentheses after the PSN

The last rule is where beginners most often go wrong. N.O.S. stands for “Not Otherwise Specified,” meaning “I haven’t listed a separate entry for you in the table; please use this general category, but you must specify the main components.”

For example, if the SDS states “UN1993 Flammable liquid, n.o.s.,” the correct PSN entry should be:

`` Flammable liquid, n.o.s. (Ethanol, Isopropanol) ``

Add 1–2 chemical names in parentheses to clarify the primary source of danger to the consignee or airline. If you omit these parentheses, ground handling staff will almost certainly reject the shipment upon receipt.

OneCargoKit’s Dangerous Goods Check tool displays both the standard PSN format and a prompt to add technical names as soon as you enter the UN number. Combined with the tool’s built-in Glossary, you can quickly align Chinese and English terminology, reducing discrepancies in communication with overseas freight forwarders.

V. Class and Subclass: Linked to “Type of Hazard,” Not to “Severity of Hazard”

Class determines “what the primary hazard of this shipment is.” The nine major classes and their subclasses were already broken down in the previous article; this article focuses on two identification steps:

1. How to read the primary class + secondary class

In the DGL table, the PSN is typically followed by two columns:

For example, UN1796 (mixture of nitric acid and sulfuric acid) is Class 8 (Corrosives) with Subsidiary Risk 5.1 (Oxidizing).Outer packaging for this type of cargo must bear two labels: a Class 8 primary label (displaying “8”) and a Class 5.1 subsidiary risk label (no numbers—only the symbol). Failure to affix the subsidiary risk label is one of the most common non-compliance issues on the front lines.

2. The “Hazard Label” column ≠ the “Class” column

The DGR table also includes a column titled “Hazard Label(s) or Mark(s),” which directly specifies which labels must be affixed to the outer packaging of the shipment.

It may include:

When assigning tasks, apply labels directly according to the “Hazard Label(s)” column; do not make assumptions based on the Class alone.

VI. PG (Packing Group): Determines packaging strength and weight limits

There are only three PG (Packing Group) levels; the lower the number, the higher the hazard:

PGHazard LevelCorresponding Packaging Grade MarkingIn a Nutshell
IHighXThe package can withstand PG I testing and is also suitable for lower grades II and III
IIMediumYThe package withstands the PG II test and is also applicable to PG III
IIILowZMeets only PG III test requirements

The most practical way to identify this: If you have a box with a UN regulation mark printed on the outer packaging, for example:

`` UN 4G/Y15/S/24/D/BAM-12345 ``

The “Y” in the middle tells you that this box is rated for PG II at most. If your cargo is PG I, this box cannot be used.

Note three exceptions:

PG and PI are linked: for the same UN number and PG in the DGL table, the corresponding PI is fixed. Changing the PG means changing the PI, which in turn changes the weight limit and packaging requirements. Be sure to verify the PG carefully before dispatching.

VII. What to Do When the SDS and DGL Do Not Match

In 90% of real-world scenarios, you will receive an SDS; in 10% of real-world scenarios, that SDS is incorrect or outdated. Common scenarios of conflict:

Conflict TypeActual CauseResolution
The SDS uses an outdated UN numberRegulatory updates or the SDS has not been updated for several yearsRefer to the latest version of the DGL
The SDS was written according to road transport standards, changing PG II to IIIADR, IMDG, and IATA have different classifications for borderline substancesRefer to the regulations for the mode of transport you will be using
The SDS does not list the technical name for "n.o.s."The SDS provides the trade name, not the chemical nameRequest a list of main ingredients from the supplier, then decide how to fill in the PSN in parentheses
Near the concentration thresholdThe manufacturer hasn’t clarified this eitherHave the factory conduct testing to generate a COA, and compare it to the DGL concentration thresholds
The Class is labeled incorrectlyThe SDS was prepared by the chemical manufacturer using GHS terminology; GHS hazard categories ≠ transport classesAlways use the Class column in the DGL as the definitive reference

Bottom-line principle: The SDS is for reference; the DGL is the authoritative source. In case of any conflict, the DGL always takes precedence. Even if the SDS states “not a hazardous material,” but you find a corresponding UN number for the substance in the DGL, it must still be handled as dangerous goods.

VIII. Complete Query Flowchart

`` 拿到货品名称 / SDS ↓ Step 1:找到 UN 号 ├─ SDS 第 14 节有 UN 号 → 记下来 └─ SDS 没有 → 按主要化学成分 + 浓度去 DGL Index 反查 ↓ Step 2:在 DGL 表里定位行 ├─ 是否 N.O.S.?是 → 准备补技术名称 └─ 是否有多种状态/浓度?→ 按真实货品选行 ↓ Step 3:读 4 列基础信息 UN、PSN、Class(+次类)、PG ↓ Step 4:读豁免列 例外数量、限量阈值 → 判断是否能走简化规则 ↓ Step 5:读包装 + 限重列 Passenger PI / Cargo PI、单件最大 ↓ Step 6:读 Special Provisions 逐条到第 4.4 章核对 ↓ Step 7:核对 OV / SV 起运、过境、目的国 + 起运承运航司 ↓ 完成 → 出 DGD + 配标签 + 配 PI 包装 ``

Before assigning a task, run a 30-second preliminary screening using the Dangerous Goods Check. This will generate results for Steps 1–5 in one go; then return to the manual to carefully verify the remaining SP and OV/SV.

IX. Complete Case Demonstration: From Receiving an SDS to Generating a Draft DGD

Now that we’ve covered the general rules, let’s look at how the complete process works. Below is a typical e-commerce shipment: a customer wants to air freight a batch of small-bottle alcohol-based hand sanitizer to Germany.

Step 0 — Information Provided by the Client

“100 ml × 24 bottles per box, 75% ethanol content, gross weight of outer carton 4 kg, 60 boxes total, from Shanghai Pudong to Frankfurt, requires a full-cargo flight, shipping starts next Wednesday.” Section 14 of the SDS states:UN1170, Ethanol, Class 3, PG II

Step 1 — Determine the UN Number

UN 1170 has already been provided. However, we must be cautious—does 75% ethanol fall under UN 1170 (Ethanol) or UN 1987 (Ethanol solutions)?

Check the DGL; the two UN entries actually correspond to different physical states:

According to IATA conventions, a 75% aqueous ethanol solution falls under UN1170, PG II. Confirm that the SDS terminology aligns with the DGL.

Step 2 — Read the complete DGL line

FieldValue
UN1170
PSNEthanol (or Ethanol solution; select based on concentration)
Class3
Secondary RiskNone
PGII
Excepted QuantityE2
Limited QuantityY341
Passenger PI353
Max Passengers5 L per piece
Cargo PI364
Max Cargo60 L / piece
Special ProvisionsSee Chapter 4.4 of the DGR

Step 3 — Determine whether the weight of a single piece exceeds the PI weight limit

100 ml × 24 bottles = 2.4 L per box. This is below the 5 L limit for Passenger PI 353 and also below the 60 L limit for Cargo PI 364. It is acceptable for both cargo classes.

Note that PI 353 also stipulates that “glass inner bottles ≤ 1 L, plastic inner bottles ≤ 5 L.” The 100 ml plastic bottles fully comply.

Step 4 — Determine if the shipment meets the volume limit (Y341)

PI Y341 generally stipulates that a single inner container must be ≤ 1 L, and the total volume per package must be ≤ 30 L. This shipment consists of 100 ml × 24 bottles = 2.4 L, which fully meets the volume limit requirements.

If shipped as a limited quantity: Affix the “Y” mark + directional arrow; the outer packaging can be classified as Class Y, simplifying the DGD. If shipped as full DG: Affix the Class 3 main label + directional arrow; pack according to PI 364; full DGD required.

Calculating with the client: 60 cases × 2.4 L = 144 L. Since each bottle is 100 ml, we strongly recommend shipping as a Limited Quantity—this reduces packaging costs, simplifies documentation, and allows for transport on passenger aircraft.

Step 5 — Check OV / SV

For this step, use the Dangerous Goods Check tool to enter UN1170 plus the origin and destination to quickly screen for any SV or OV risk points.

Step 6 — Fill in the Core Fields of the DGD Draft

`` UN/ID No.: UN1170 PSN: Ethanol (75% aqueous solution) Class or Division: 3 Subsidiary Risk: — Packing Group: II Quantity & Type: 60 fibreboard boxes × 2.4 L = 144 L net Packing Instruction: Y341 (Limited Quantity) Authorization: Limited Quantity ``

Step 7 — Outer Packaging Labels

For an entire shipment, from receiving the SDS to producing the DGD draft, a seasoned operator can typically complete the process in about 8–10 minutes. A novice following the above procedure will take about 30 minutes the first time, but after handling three shipments, they can generally get it done in under 15 minutes.

X. Which Lines in Section 14 of the SDS Should You Actually Look At?

A complete SDS has 16 sections, of which Section 14 is “Transport Information.” However, 80% of the content in these 16 sections is irrelevant to air freight DGDs.The biggest mistake newcomers make when reviewing an SDS is “reading it from start to finish.” Experienced operators focus only on these 7 lines in Section 14:

FieldCommon Formats for SDS HeadersWhat you need it for
UN NumberUN-No. / UN numberLock UN Number
UN Proper Shipping NameProper Shipping Name / Transport NameCheck DGL for PSN
Transport Hazard Class(es)Class / Hazard ClassDetermine the primary class; check for any subclasses
Packing GroupPG / Packing GroupLock PG
Environmental HazardsMarine pollutant / Environmental hazardDetermine whether the Fish and Tree symbol is required
Special PrecautionsSpecial Precautions for UsersCheck for additional requirements such as temperature control or protection from light
Transport in BulkAccording to MARPOL / IBC CodeApplies only to IBCs in maritime transport; can be disregarded for air transport

The only section you need to scan in its entirety is Section 12, “Ecological Information”—it will tell you whether this shipment is toxic to aquatic life, which determines whether you need to follow the procedures for environmentally hazardous substances under UN3077/UN3082.

The remaining lines in Section 14 (such as the IMDG Code for maritime transport, the ADR Code for road transport, and the ICAO Emergency Response Code) are only relevant if you’re handling multimodal transport or need to look up the ERG Emergency Response Code. For routine air freight dispatching, you can skip over them at a glance.

Another commonly overlooked point: Section 14 of the SDS sometimes states “Not regulated for transport.” This applies only to the SDS and does not mean the substance is also unregulated under the IATA DGR. Always cross-reference with the DGL for confirmation.

XI. Special Provisions and OV/SV: The Final Two Steps in Identification

Many newcomers assume that once they’ve identified the UN number, PSN, Class, and PG, the “identification process is complete.” Wrong. A complete identification involves two final steps:

1. Special Provisions (SP)

The “Special Provisions” column in the DGL table typically contains several codes beginning with “A,” such as A1, A3, A88, etc. Each code corresponds to a specific provision in Chapter 4.4 of the IATA DGR, which may either relax the requirements (allowing larger quantities) or tighten them (requiring additional documentation).

Practical Approach:

Consequences of overlooking an SP: If you issue a DGD based on the master manifest data but a specific SP requires “the letter ‘X’ to be noted on the DGD,” ground handling staff will reject the shipment immediately upon noticing the missing notation.

2. State Variations (SV) and Operator Variations (OV)

Practical Procedure:

OV and SV are the two sections of the IATA DGR that are updated most frequently; be sure to check the latest version before shipment—do not rely on memory. It is recommended to systematically update your SV/OV quick-reference charts at least once a year.

XII. Common Misconceptions

XIII. Practical Checklist (60 seconds before the DGD draft)

For air freight, it is recommended to use the AWB Filler to pre-align the air waybill fields so that the description of contents, number of pieces, and gross weight on the DGD match the AWB exactly. Discrepancies between the two documents are a common cause of delays at ground handling.

XIV. Classification Method for Three Job Categories

PositionKey Verification StepsOutput
Freight Forwarder OperationsRetrieve SDS / Client Order → 30 seconds to check UN/PSN/Class/PG → 30 seconds to check PI + OV/SVDetermination of Acceptance + Flight Recommendations + DG Surcharge Quote
Cross-Border E-Commerce OperationsRequest SDS from supplier before listing → Use UN number to verify if platform logistics options are availableDecide whether to list the product and which logistics channel to use
Factory ExportProvide accurate SDS, concentration specifications, and UN number before shipmentMinimize rework and amendment requests for freight forwarders

XV. Compliance and Boundary Reminders

XVI. Conclusion: Identification is not a “one-time check,” but rather a “habit that becomes second nature”

DG identification may seem cumbersome, but at its core, it is a set of actions that can be trained into muscle memory:

Receive the commodity name → Lock the UN number → Cross-reference the DGL → Read the 4 basic columns → Check exemptions → Check the PI → Check the SP → Check OV/SV → Generate the DGD

Once mastered, a seasoned operator can handle a standard DG shipment—from receiving the SDS to drafting the DGD—in under 5 minutes. Newcomers are slow not because the manual is difficult, but because their sequence is disorganized, they’re unfamiliar with the fields, and they haven’t clarified the relationship between the SDS and the DGL.

Once you’ve mastered this workflow, by the time we cover packaging grades PG I/II/III and the PI packaging instructions in the next article, you’ll find that the PI is no longer a “mysterious text,” but rather a “reference point” where the DGL has already provided all the necessary information. See you in the next article.