PART 5: CONSIGNMENT PROCEDURES

Consignment procedures define how dangerous goods must be prepared, identified, documented, and presented for transport.
Even if goods are classified and packaged correctly, they cannot legally be shipped unless all consignment requirements are met.
Failure to follow Part 5 leads to misidentification, improper stowage, and reduced emergency readiness—significant contributors to maritime accidents.

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Chapter 5.1 – General Provisions

This chapter outlines the systematic process that must occur before dangerous goods are loaded onto a ship.
Consignment procedures ensure all safety controls are in place, and necessary checks are completed by both shippers and carriers.

Cargo Acceptance Process

Before accepting DG cargo, the carrier must verify:

• Correct classification and packaging,

• Required markings and labels are applied,

• Documents are accurate and complete,

• Cargo is permitted for sea transport,

• Quantity limitations and segregation requirements are respected.

Acceptance checks serve as the final barrier to prevent non-compliant cargo from entering the supply chain.

Verification

Verification involves:

• Cross-checking documentation against physical cargo,

• Ensuring the Proper Shipping Name and UN number match labeling,

• Confirming package integrity and UN markings,

• Validating temperature control requirements, if applicable.

Verification protects the shipowner and master against undisclosed hazards and ensures regulatory due diligence.

Sequencing Before Loading

Before loading cargo onto the vessel:

• Cargo must be placed in correct loading order, based on segregation plans,

• Hazard classes that cannot interact must be kept apart,

• Temperature-sensitive goods must be identified and placed appropriately,

• Cargo requiring onboard observation must be accessible if incident response is needed.

Sequencing prevents dangerous chemical incompatibilities and supports efficient emergency access.

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Chapter 5.2 – Marking & Labelling

Markings and labels provide visual hazard warnings, enabling proper handling, storage, and emergency response.

Marking Requirements

Markings convey essential transport information:

• UN number (e.g., UN 1203)

• Proper Shipping Name

• Marine Pollutant mark, if applicable

• Orientation arrows for liquids or goods requiring upright positioning

• Overpack indication, if used

UN numbers must be:

• Durable, legible, and weather-resistant

• Contrasting color for clear visibility

Labeling Requirements

Hazard labels must:

• Display the class symbol and division number

• Follow specific color and shape standards

• Be sufficiently large and durable to withstand maritime conditions (saltwater exposure, friction, UV radiation)

Typical label size: minimum 100 mm x 100 mm, unless specified otherwise.

Marine Pollutant Mark

Required when cargo contains substances harmful to the marine environment.

Mark characteristics:

• Black symbol (fish and tree) on white background

• Applied to packages, containers, and overpacks, where applicable

Importance

Markings and labels:

• Prevent mishandling by stevedores and terminal operators

• Enable quick risk recognition

• Support firefighting decisions in emergencies

Incorrect or missing labeling is a major cause of misidentification during incidents.

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Chapter 5.3 – Placarding Cargo Transport Units (CTUs)

Placards are large hazard signs applied to containers, tankers, and vehicles transporting dangerous goods.
They are essential for shipboard crew, terminal personnel, and emergency responders to identify risks before approaching a unit.

Placard Placement

• All four sides of a container or tank must display hazard placards

• Placards must reflect the primary hazard class

• Subsidiary risk placards may also be required

Purpose

Placards:

• Act as visual hazard identifiers during cargo movement

• Support decision-making during emergencies

• Alert inspectors and port authorities during compliance checks

Without proper placarding, responders may misjudge hazards, leading to incorrect intervention strategies.

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Chapter 5.4 – Documentation

Documentation is the legal record that dangerous goods have been classified, packaged, marked, labeled, and presented according to regulations.

Required Documents

Accuracy Requirements

Documentation must:

• Use exact Proper Shipping Names

• Provide quantities and packaging details

• Match markings and labels on cargo

Incorrect documentation:

• Leads to regulatory offenses

• Causes loading delays

• Can result in catastrophic mismanagement during emergencies

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Chapter 5.5 – Special Provisions

Certain dangerous goods require additional consignment controls beyond standard procedures to maintain safety during carriage.

Temperature-Controlled Cargo

Some substances (e.g., organic peroxides) require temperature regulation to prevent decomposition or ignition.

Requirements:

• Declared control temperature

• Emergency temperature measures

• Monitoring systems onboard

• Special stowage accessibility

Temperature violations may lead to thermal runaway or explosions.

Self-Heating Substances

Self-heating materials can ignite spontaneously if stored improperly.

Controls:

• Adequate ventilation

• Heat monitoring before loading

• Segregation from other flammable substances

Examples: coal, fishmeal, seed cake.

Emptied Uncleaned Packaging

Packaging that once contained DG and has not been cleaned remains a hazard.

Rules:

• Must be treated as dangerous goods

• Require marking, labeling, and documentation

• Residual contents may react with moisture, air, or incompatible substances

Failure to treat emptied packaging correctly has historically led to serious fires and explosions onboard ships.

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PART 5 SUMMARY TABLE