Paint Thinner and Solvent Shipping: Flammable Liquid IATA IMDG Regulations

Shipping Paint Thinners and Solvents Under Hazmat Regulations

Paint thinners, industrial solvents, and related flammable liquids are among the most commonly shipped dangerous goods worldwide. Classified primarily under Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) of IATA DGR and IMDG Code, these products require proper packaging, documentation, and carrier selection to ensure safe and compliant transport.

Common Solvents and Their Classifications

Mineral spirits (UN1256, PG II/III), acetone (UN1090, PG II), toluene (UN1294, PG II), methyl ethyl ketone (UN1193, PG II), and xylene (UN1307, PG II/III) are among the most frequently shipped solvents. Each has specific flash points, boiling points, and vapor pressures that determine their packing group assignment and shipping requirements.

IATA DGR for Air Transport of Solvents

Air shipping of solvents under IATA DGR follows Packing Instruction 353 for combination packages. Quantity limits range from 1L to 5L per inner container depending on packing group. Total package weight cannot exceed 30kg for passenger aircraft (PG III only) or specified limits for cargo aircraft. International air freight of solvents requires precise documentation and carrier-specific acceptance procedures.

IMDG Code for Ocean Solvent Shipments

Ocean transport under the IMDG Code accommodates larger solvent quantities in drums, IBCs, and tank containers. Stowage requirements mandate placement away from living quarters and ignition sources. Many solvents carry marine pollutant subsidiary risks requiring additional marking. Container loading must follow IMDG stowage and segregation tables.

Packaging Standards for Flammable Liquids

UN-rated packaging is mandatory for all regulated solvent shipments. Steel or plastic drums must meet UN performance test requirements including drop tests, leakproofness tests, and hydraulic pressure tests. Inner containers in combination packages require compatible closures and adequate cushioning. Absorbent material sufficient to contain the entire liquid contents must be included.

Bulk and Intermediate Quantity Shipping

For larger commercial quantities, IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers) and portable tanks offer cost-effective transport options. IBC types 31A (steel) and 31H1 (plastic) are commonly used for solvents. Full truckload shipments of bulk solvents require placarded vehicles with hazmat-endorsed drivers and appropriate emergency response information.

Go Freight’s Solvent Shipping Solutions

Go Freight provides expert flammable liquid logistics from South Florida. Our hazmat team handles paint thinner, solvent, and coating shipments with full IATA, IMDG, and DOT compliance for domestic and international destinations.