ADR / Dangerous Goods Checker

Use a simple goods-type screening helper to identify cargo that may need ADR classification before transport.

Goods type

ADR guidance

May fall under ADR Class 9. Check UN3480/UN3481 rules.

This is a screening tool, not classification advice. Use SDS and UN number.

How to use this tool

Enter the required values in the labeled fields. Results update in your browser and are announced for assistive technologies. Use realistic measurements and verify important outcomes before acting on them.

Formula or logic

Common goods categories are mapped to likely ADR concerns and suggested next checks such as SDS and UN number.

Example calculation

Example: lithium batteries may fall under ADR Class 9 and require UN3480/UN3481 checks.

Practical use and limits

This page is built for planning freight, warehouse, courier or transport scenarios before confirming commercial terms with a carrier, forwarder or internal operations team. The calculation is intentionally visible and described above so you can sanity-check the result instead of treating it as a black box.

Limit: carrier rules, surcharges, legal requirements and real-world constraints can change the final answer. For important decisions, use this result as a planning aid and verify it against the relevant source of truth.

Last reviewed: May 29, 2026.

ADR / Dangerous Goods Checker: practical guide

ADR checks are a safety and compliance screen, not a paperwork decoration. Dangerous goods can change packaging, labeling, vehicle requirements, route options, documentation and carrier availability.

Use this checker early when a product may contain batteries, aerosols, chemicals, paints, fuels, compressed gases or regulated samples. Late ADR discovery is expensive.

Real examples

Lithium battery shipment

Input: electronics with installed batteries

Result: check UN number, packing instruction and carrier acceptance

Aerosol cartons

Input: consumer goods with pressurized cans

Result: classification can affect labels and transport mode

Practical notes

Always confirm with the SDS, UN number and competent dangerous-goods documentation.
Limited quantity rules may reduce requirements but do not remove classification.
Carriers may reject goods even when the regulation allows transport.

Common mistakes

Assuming consumer products are not dangerous goods.
Shipping from marketing descriptions instead of SDS data.
Ignoring mixed loads and incompatible goods.

Frequently asked questions

Can this classify dangerous goods?

No. It only flags common risk areas.

What document should I check?

Start with the Safety Data Sheet and UN number.

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