IMDG Code

Adopted in 1965 and mandatory under SOLAS since January 1, 2004, the code is amended every two years. Amendment 42-24, the 2024 edition, became mandatory on January 1, 2026, adding entries such as UN 3556 and UN 3557 for lithium battery powered vehicles and classifying sodium ion batteries in Class 9. Shippers must classify goods, use approved packaging, mark and label packages, provide a dangerous goods declaration and a container packing certificate, and train staff. Some older labeling provisions may be used until December 31, 2026.

The IMDG Code controls how hazardous e-commerce products, especially lithium batteries, move in ocean containers, and misdeclared cargo is a frequent cause of container ship fires. Carriers increasingly inspect and fine shippers for undeclared dangerous goods. For example, an importer bringing e-bikes from China must ensure the supplier declares them under the correct UN number with proper packing, or the carrier can reject the booking and impose penalties. 3PLs receiving such containers should confirm that placards and documents match the contents.

• Lithium Battery ShippingShipping batteries under dangerous goods rules

• First SOLAS Convention1914, never in force · First ship safety treaty, adopted after the Titanic
• ADR Agreement1957, in force 1968, ADR 2025 current · Treaty on carrying dangerous goods by road
• IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR)1956, 67th edition 2026 · Airline manual for shipping dangerous goods by air

1. The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, IMO imo.org
2. SOLAS amendments to the IMDG Code (Amendment 42-24), West P&I westpandi.com