Free Template

DG Declaration Pre-Flight Checklist

Run this checklist on every Dangerous Goods Declaration before it goes to the carrier. The 25 items below are the cross-checks we run on every DG booking out of Shanghai, Qingdao, or Nanjing.

Press Cmd+P (Mac) or Ctrl+P (Windows) and choose "Save as PDF" in the print dialog.

1. Substance identification

  • Proper Shipping Name matches IMDG Code Volume 2 entry exactly (no trade names)
  • UN Number is the four-digit identifier, not an NA number
  • CAS number on the DG Declaration matches the COA and the MSDS
  • Subsidiary risk noted if applicable (e.g. "8 (6.1)" for corrosive with toxic subsidiary)

2. Class and packing group

  • Hazard Class number correct (3 / 4 / 5 / 6.1 / 8 most common for chemicals)
  • Packing Group I, II, or III assigned and consistent across all documents
  • Marine Pollutant indicator marked yes/no per MARPOL Annex II
  • EmS (Emergency Schedule) reference present and correct for the class

3. Quantity and packaging

  • Number of packages by type listed (e.g. "80 × 200L steel drums")
  • Net quantity per package and total net quantity correct
  • UN packaging code on each drum/IBC matches the assigned packing group
  • Second character of UN code: X for PG I, Y for PG II, Z for PG III
  • Packaging type (1A1, 31A, 31H1, etc.) matches what was actually loaded

4. Class 3 specific

  • Flashpoint listed in degrees Celsius (closed-cup method)
  • Flashpoint consistent with PG assignment (PG I < 23°C, PG II < 60°C with boiling point ≤ 35°C, PG III otherwise)
  • Initial boiling point listed where required by class

5. Cross-document reconciliation

  • MSDS Section 14 fields match the DG Declaration line by line
  • Drum labels carry same UN number, class, and packing group
  • Container placards on all four sides plus the door end
  • Commercial invoice references the same substance and quantity
  • Packing list weights and counts match

6. Shipper certification

  • Shipper company name and address present (factory legal entity)
  • Authorised signatory name printed plus signature
  • Date of certification within 7 days of vessel sailing
  • Certification statement text intact (not modified or shortened)

Sourzi · 20 years of chemical sourcing from Shanghai Pudong · sourcing@sourzi.com · sourzi.com/resources

Want a factory that gets the DG paperwork right?

Tell us the chemical, grade and quantity. A person on our team in Shanghai sends you a real, checked factory, and your first one is free.

Get your free Factory Match Or talk to our team