UN Number
A UN Number (United Nations Number) is a four-digit identification code used worldwide to classify and label hazardous substances and articles during transport. These numbers are assigned by the United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and are recognised under international regulations such as the ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road), the IMDG Code for maritime transport, and the ICAO Technical Instructions for air transport.
The UN Number system ensures that dangerous goods are handled, packaged, and transported safely and consistently across borders, reducing the risk of accidents and supporting emergency response in the event of a spill or release.
Table of Contents
Purpose of UN Numbers
The main purpose of a UN Number is to provide a universal reference for hazardous materials so that transporters, emergency responders, and regulatory authorities can immediately identify the type of risk involved.
Each UN Number corresponds to a specific substance or group of substances with similar hazardous properties. For example:
- UN 1203 – Petrol (Gasoline)
- UN 1090 – Acetone
- UN 1993 – Flammable liquid, n.o.s. (not otherwise specified)
- UN 1005 – Ammonia, anhydrous
By using a consistent numbering system, UN Numbers eliminate confusion caused by language differences or trade names. This is especially important in global logistics, where materials may be transported across multiple jurisdictions.
Structure and Format of UN Numbers
A UN Number always consists of four digits, written with the prefix “UN”. The number is typically displayed on transport documentation, packaging, and hazard labels.
Example format: UN 1203
Each UN Number is linked to a proper shipping name, a hazard class, and a packing group, which defines the level of danger. Together, these elements form the full identification for a dangerous good.
Hazard Classes and Packing Groups
The hazard class categorises the nature of the risk (for example, flammable, corrosive, or toxic). There are nine main classes, such as:
- Explosives
- Gases
- Flammable liquids
- Flammable solids
- Oxidising substances
- Toxic and infectious substances
- Radioactive material
- Corrosives
- Miscellaneous dangerous goods
Within each class, packing groups (I, II, or III) indicate the degree of danger:
- Packing Group I – High danger
- Packing Group II – Medium danger
- Packing Group III – Low danger
How UN Numbers Are Assigned
The United Nations Sub-Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods reviews substances based on their physical and chemical properties, toxicity, reactivity, and environmental impact.
Once evaluated, the Committee assigns a UN Number and defines its proper shipping name, hazard class, and applicable transport conditions. These classifications are published in the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods – Model Regulations (often referred to as the “Orange Book”).
National and international transport agreements, such as ADR (road), RID (rail), IMDG (sea), and ICAO (air), adopt these recommendations to maintain global consistency.
Use in Transport and Labelling
UN Numbers are displayed on:
- Shipping papers and transport manifests
- Hazard labels and placards on vehicles or containers
- Packaging and drums containing hazardous materials
For example, a tanker transporting petrol would carry a placard marked UN 1203 along with the flammable liquid symbol (a flame).
This clear identification allows emergency services to consult resources like the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) or the ADR Dangerous Goods List to determine appropriate safety measures in the event of an incident.
At Barrington Freight, we specialise in making your importing and exporting straightforward. From customs clearance to finding the right commodity codes, our expert team is here to assist. Don’t let the complexities of global trade hold you back. Reach out to Barrington Freight for efficient and reliable shipping solutions.
Importance for Safety and Compliance
Using the correct UN Number is a legal requirement in most countries. It ensures:
- Accurate risk communication during storage and transport
- Compliance with international and national safety regulations
- Efficient emergency response through standardised hazard information
- Environmental protection, by reducing the likelihood of spills or releases
Failure to use the correct UN Number or corresponding label can result in regulatory penalties, shipment delays, or increased safety risks.
Examples of UN Numbers
There are currently over 3,500 UN Numbers listed in the UN Model Regulations, covering substances from everyday materials like paints and aerosols to highly hazardous chemicals and radioactive items.
Some commonly transported examples include:
- UN 1075 – Petroleum gases, liquefied (LPG)
- UN 1263 – Paint or paint-related materials
- UN 2794 – Batteries, wet, filled with acid
- UN 3480 – Lithium ion batteries
(Please verify the most recent numbers using authoritative sources such as the UN Model Regulations or the HSE classification guidance.)
Related Terms
- Proper Shipping Name (PSN) – The official name that must appear with the UN Number on transport documents.
- Dangerous Goods (DG) – Substances that pose risks to health, safety, or the environment during transport.
- Hazard Class – The category of danger associated with a material.
- Packing Group – Indicates the level of hazard within a class.
Summary
A UN Number provides a standardised, internationally recognised way to identify hazardous materials in transport. It forms the foundation of the global dangerous goods classification system, ensuring that substances are packaged, labelled, and handled safely throughout the supply chain.
For businesses involved in shipping or storing hazardous materials, understanding and correctly applying UN Numbers is essential for legal compliance, risk management, and worker safety.
Recommended resources for further reading:
About the Author
Simon Poole began his career in production planning, quickly rising to manage 24-hour manufacturing lines and oversee a team of 140 staff. In 2007, he joined Barrington Freight, where he brought his operational expertise into the logistics sector. Appointed Operations Director in 2021, Simon now leads all day-to-day operations, including sea, air and European freight, working closely with clients and partners worldwide.
We’re friendly, easy to work with, honest and we don’t charge the earth.
For advice and information on shipping time from China to the UK, call 01268 525444 or email us today.
