Introduction
When shipping inkjet ink — especially MEK-based or ethanol-based fluids — it’s not just another product. Most inks are officially classified as Dangerous Goods (DG) and are regulated by international transport laws. Misclassifying ink can lead to shipping delays, fines, or even safety risks.
This guide explains which class of DG ink products belong to, which UN numbers apply, and what the implications are for freight, labeling, and storage.
1. What Is Dangerous Goods Classification?
Dangerous Goods are substances that pose a risk to health, safety, or the environment. The UN (United Nations) assigns each regulated substance:
- A UN number
- A hazard class (1 to 9)
- A packing group (I, II, III — based on risk level)
Inks are typically regulated under **Class 3: Flammable Liquids**.
2. Which Types of Ink Are Classified as Dangerous Goods?
| Ink Type | Solvent Base | Hazard Class | UN Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIJ Ink (black, white) | MEK | Class 3 | UN1210 |
| TIJ Cartridge Ink | Ethanol or water | Class 3 or non-DG | UN1170 or Not Classified |
| Acetone-based Ink | Acetone | Class 3 | UN1090 |
| Pigmented Ink (white/yellow) | MEK or ethanol | Class 3 | UN1210 or UN1170 |
3. Understanding Class 3: Flammable Liquids
Inkjet inks are in Class 3 if they meet the following criteria:
- Flash point ≤ 60°C (e.g., MEK ~ -6°C, ethanol ~ 12°C)
- Liquid form, not pressurized
- Contains volatile solvents that can ignite
Labeling Requirements:
- Class 3 Flammable Liquid label (red flame symbol)
- UN number displayed clearly (e.g., UN1210)
- GHS pictograms on outer cartons
4. Are All Inks Dangerous Goods?
No. Some ink types are exempt:
- Water-based inks with no flammable solvent
- Some TIJ inks with low alcohol content and high flash point
- Non-hazardous label or carton inks certified as “Not Regulated”
How to Know?
Always check the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), especially Section 14: Transport Information. If a UN number and Class 3 are listed — it’s a DG product.
5. UN Codes Commonly Used for Ink Products
| UN Code | Description | Used For |
|———|————-|———-|
| UN1210 | Printing ink (flammable, MEK) | CIJ inks |
| UN1170 | Ethanol solution | TIJ or ethanol-based inks |
| UN1090 | Acetone | Fast-drying inks for foil lids |
| UN1263 | Paint-related material | Pigmented or blended inks |
6. What This Means for Shipping
- You must use DG-compliant packaging (UN-rated drums, leak-proof bottles)
- Use correct DG shipping labels and documents
- Get a DG Certificate for international air/sea shipments
- Declare DG goods when booking freight or customs clearance
7. Cheef Ink Compliance
All Cheef inks with DG classification are supplied with:
- MSDS (GHS-compliant)
- UN code printed on label
- DG Certificate available upon request
- Pre-certified packaging and shipping instructions
Conclusion
Whether you’re buying ink locally or shipping worldwide, understanding your product’s DG class is critical for compliance and safety. Most CIJ and solvent-based inks fall under Class 3: Flammable Liquids and require proper documentation and labeling. At ChinaCIJInk.com, we make it simple with fully compliant ink solutions — ready for air, sea, or land transport anywhere in the world.
