In international trade, the export transportation of dangerous goods must comply with strict safety standards, and the Dangerous Goods Packaging Certificate (full name: “Certificate of Inspection Results for Packaging Used in Export Transportation of Dangerous Goods”) is one of the crucial documents. Many companies are concerned about a question: Can the Dangerous Goods Packaging Certificate be used multiple times within its validity period? The answer is yes, but several key restrictions must be noted.

The basic function of the Dangerous Goods Certificate

The Dangerous Goods Certificate is a document issued by inspection and quarantine authorities, certifying that the packaging containers for dangerous goods comply with international transport standards (such as the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG) or the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations). Its main functions include :

• Proof of qualified packaging : Ensure that the packaging can safely carry hazardous goods to prevent leaks or accidents.
• Essential documents for customs clearance : Ports, shipping companies, or airlines must arrange shipments based on the dangerous goods certificate.
• Compliance requirements : Failure to provide a dangerous goods certificate may result in the cargo being rejected or returned.

Validity and Usage Frequency of Hazardous Package Certificate

The hazardous package certificate can be used multiple times within its validity period, but must meet the following conditions :

1. Limit on the number of inspection items

• The dangerous goods certificate will indicate the number of items allowed for inspection (e.g., 1000 items). Each time an export occurs, customs or the shipping company will verify the corresponding quantity.
• Once the inspected quantity is exhausted, even if it is still within the validity period, the dangerous goods certificate cannot be used again.

2. Validity Period Restrictions

• The validity period of the dangerous goods declaration usually does not exceed 1 year, depending on the validity period of the packaging performance certificate.
• When approaching the expiration date, it is important to note: some shipping companies require that the validity period of the dangerous goods declaration must cover the entire voyage duration (i.e., it must still be valid when the vessel arrives at port), otherwise they may refuse to accept bookings.

What should be done if the hazardous materials packaging certificate expires or the quantity is used up?

If any of the following situations occur, the company needs to reapply for a hazardous materials packaging certificate :

• Expired hazardous materials packaging certificate : Even if there are unused inspection items, it cannot be continued after expiration.
• All inspection items have been used up : Even if still within validity, a new application is required once the quantity is exhausted.

Solutions :

• Plan export batches in advance to avoid having remaining quantities unused close to expiration.
• If export frequency is high, apply for a larger number of inspection items to reduce the need for repeated certification applications.

How to ensure the smooth use of the Dangerous Goods Certificate ?

• Check validity : Ensure that the certificate is still valid at the time of shipment.
• Control inspection quantity : Allocate usage reasonably to avoid excess or waste.
• Confirm with shipping companies in advance : Some shipping companies have additional requirements regarding the validity period of the certificate.

Conclusion

The dangerous goods certificate can be used multiple times within its validity period, but it must meet the conditions that the number of inspection items has not been exhausted and is not expired. Companies should plan export batches in advance to avoid delays in shipment due to issues with the dangerous goods certificate.