Introduction
When transporting inks and solvents used in CIJ, TIJ, and DOD printers, it is critical to understand their classification under the Dangerous Goods (DG) system. Many of these consumables are considered hazardous by international shipping regulations. This article outlines the DG classes relevant to inkjet printer inks and solvents, the risks they represent, and how to ensure safe and compliant global shipping.
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1. What Are Dangerous Goods (DG)?
Dangerous Goods are substances that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment during transport. The United Nations classifies DGs into nine classes based on the type of hazard they present. These classes are regulated globally through transport regulations such as:
- IATA (Air Transport)
- IMDG (Sea Freight)
- ADR (Road Transport in Europe)
- 49 CFR (U.S. DOT regulations)
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2. Which DG Class Do Inks Belong To?
Most solvent-based inks used in Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) and Drop-On-Demand (DOD) systems fall under:
Class 3 – Flammable Liquids
- Typical UN Number: UN1210 (Printing Ink), UN1263 (Paint Related Material)
- Packing Group: II or III depending on flash point and volatility
- Examples: MEK-based ink, acetone-based cleaner, ethanol-containing ink
These inks contain volatile solvents with flash points below 60°C, which makes them flammable and thus regulated under Class 3.
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3. What About TIJ and Water-Based Inks?
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) inks and water-based formulations typically do not fall under DG classification due to their non-flammable, low-toxicity nature. They often do not require UN numbers or hazard labels.
However, it’s important to check the ink’s MSDS for specific chemical content. Some TIJ cartridges may contain additives or solvents that change their classification status.
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4. Other Potential DG Classes
Class 8 – Corrosives
Some cleaning agents or pH-altering ink additives may fall into Class 8 if they can cause severe skin burns or corrosion to metals.
Class 6.1 – Toxic Substances
Rare in standard inkjet inks, but possible in industrial or research formulations containing specific toxic compounds.
Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods
Some high-pressure gas cartridges or batteries used in printer systems may fall into this category rather than ink itself.
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5. Labeling Requirements by Class
| Class | Label | Symbol | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 3 | Flammable Liquid | 🔥 | Liquids with flash point below 60°C |
| Class 8 | Corrosive | ⚠️ | Substances causing skin burns or metal corrosion |
| Class 6.1 | Toxic | ☠️ | Substances harmful or fatal if inhaled/ingested |
| Class 9 | Miscellaneous | 📦 | Unusual risks not covered by other classes |
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6. Packaging and Documentation for DG Inks
All Class 3 ink shipments must comply with specific packaging and documentation rules, including:
- UN-certified packaging (leak-proof, tested for pressure and drop resistance)
- Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)
- MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
- Labeling with UN number and hazard symbol
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7. Why Classification Matters
- Safety: Prevents fires, spills, and health hazards in transit
- Legal Compliance: Avoids fines and customs delays
- Insurance: Ensures coverage in case of transport accidents
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8. Cheef’s Commitment to Compliance
At Cheef, we understand the complexities of transporting DG-classified inks and solvents. Our ink products are shipped with all necessary documentation, including:
- MSDS with UN classification
- Dangerous Goods Declaration
- UN-approved packaging
- Expert support for customs clearance
Whether you’re shipping CIJ ink across continents or distributing TIJ cartridges domestically, we help you stay compliant every step of the way.
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Conclusion
Knowing the correct Dangerous Goods class for your inkjet inks and solvents is essential for safe, legal transport. Most solvent-based CIJ inks fall under Class 3, while TIJ and water-based inks may not be regulated. Always consult the MSDS and regulatory guidelines to avoid non-compliance. For expert guidance and fully compliant ink products, contact the Cheef team today.
Email: sales@cheef.cn
WhatsApp: +86 181 6857 5767
