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Choosing the right packaging is crucial for the safety and protection of your Dangerous Goods during transportation. There are various packaging options available to suit different needs. 4G Fibreboard Boxes are a popular packaging choice and for good reason. In this article we discuss the advantages of using 4G Fibreboard Boxes and why they are a favoured choice for your packaging needs.
What is UN Packaging and why is it Important?
United Nations (UN) Approved Packaging is packaging which has been designed, tested and certified to enable the safe transportation of Dangerous Goods via road, sea, rail or air. UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods Model Regulations have been established to ensure the safety of people, property and the environment during the transportation of dangerous goods. UN approved packaging is designed to enable the safe transportation of such dangerous goods. Its intention is to prevent and subsequently contain a leak or exposure should the substance/article or the packaging become compromised during transportation. For example, should a package containing dangerous goods fall from a shelf or wagon, the substance or article inside remains safe or contained within the package. UN Packaging is required when transporting specific goods found on the ‘list of dangerous goods’ documented in the various model regulations. Amongst other things, the UN dangerous goods transport regulations specify; a list of dangerous goods, the type of packaging that must be used for transporting the dangerous goods, the maximum quantity of dangerous goods that can be transported in one package and the testing requirements for the packaging. There are specific dangerous goods regulations for each mode of transport including air, road, sea and rail.
Introduction to 4G Fibreboard Boxes
4G Fibreboard Boxes are a type of packaging that is designed to transport dangerous goods safely. These boxes are made of fluted corrugated fibreboard material, which is durable, lightweight, and environmentally friendly. Each UN approved 4G box is tested to meet specific UN Packaging standards and then accredited with a UN certification, verifying that the 4G box design is compliant with UN dangerous goods regulations and suitable for use when transporting appropriate hazardous solids or liquids. 4G boxes can be approved with various inners, such as bottles, drums and jerricans, see the latest addition to our range here.
Understanding Fibreboard Material and its Benefits
Fibreboard material is made from wood/timber which goes through a pulping process. The aim of the pulping process is to break down the structure of the timber into fibres ready to be made into pulp. This can be done via a chemical or a mechanical process.
The pulp then goes through a process called ‘beating’, filler materials may be added, the pulp is then fed into a large, automated machine with a mesh belt which the pulp is packed onto and squeezed to drain excess water, it is then heat and steam treated and wound on a wheel ready for use.
This completed paper for use of corrugated paperboard can be used as liners for the inner and outer liner of paperboard which is then supported by the flutes. The flute construction used is dependent of the type of support that is required from the corrugated board.
Advantages of using 4G Fibreboard Boxes for your Packaging Needs
There are several advantages to using 4G Fibreboard Boxes. Firstly, the boxes which are made from corrugated fibreboard material, are designed to withstand the rigors of transportation and protect your products from damage caused by shock, humidity and compression. Secondly, 4G Fibreboard Boxes are lightweight, making them easy to handle and transport. This also means that they are cost-effective, as they reduce shipping costs. Finally, 4G Fibreboard Boxes are environmentally friendly as they are recyclable.
Types of Goods that can be Packed in 4G Fibreboard Boxes
4G Fibreboard Boxes can be used to pack a wide range of dangerous goods, including chemicals, lithium batteries, flammable liquids and other hazardous materials. These boxes can be customised to suit your specific needs, with options such as different sizes, shapes, packaging accessories and configurations.
Compliance with Dangerous Goods Regulations
When transporting dangerous goods, it is essential to comply with regulations to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Shippers must refer to the relevant regulations for their chosen mode of transport to identify their dangerous goods and follow the packing instructions associated with the goods, for instructions of how to pack the goods compliantly. 4G Fibreboard Boxes are tested and certified to meet UN Packaging standards, ensuring that they are suitable for the transportation of dangerous goods. Examples of such tests include, drop test, stack test and Cobb tests. Compliance with these modal regulations is mandatory, and failure to comply can result in fines or other penalties.
How to Choose the Right 4G Fibreboard Box for Your Needs
When choosing a 4G Fibreboard Box, there are several factors to consider, including the type of dangerous goods you are transporting, the inners you wish to place your liquid or solids in, the quantity and weight of the goods and the transportation method. You should also consider the size and shape of the box, as well as any particular cushioning requirements. It is essential to choose a 4G box that is certified to meet UN dangerous goods regulations and ensure the inner packaging is suitable for the specific type of hazardous material you are transporting. A list of approved packaging types can be found on the relevant Packing Instruction for the particular UN number, however, shippers must also ensure their substance is compatible with the inner packaging material.
How to Choose the Right Inners for your 4G Fibreboard Box
4G boxes can only be used to ship specific inner packagings, the same type that were approved at test stage, such as a specific Winchester bottle or a particular HDPE plastic bottle. The packaging supplier should be able to tell you which inners are approved for the 4G packaging in question and whether the complete package design is approved to hold solids or liquids or both. It’s worth noting that different inner packaging than those originally tested can be added to the UN approval, subject to verification by the testing authority. Depending on the difference in specification, the packaging certificate holder may be offered a deviation from a full test with reduced package testing such as limited drop tests. Dangerous goods in limited quantities can also be used within the 4G box in alternative inners than specified on the test certificate, as UN approved packaging is not required for LQs, however capability testing is. For shippers wanting to use alternative inners the solution could be 4GV boxes, read more here.
Customisation Options for 4G Fibreboard Boxes
4G Fibreboard Boxes can be customised to suit your specific needs. This includes options such as different sizes, shapes, configurations, inners and cushioning materials used, as well as printing and branding options. Customisation options allow you to create packaging that is tailored to your specific needs and inner choice, making it easier to transport your products safely and efficiently.
Sustainability and Environmental Benefits of Fibreboard Boxes
Fibreboard Boxes are environmentally friendly and sustainable. More and more 4G boxes are made from FSC materials, and the production process generates less waste than other types of packaging. Fibreboard Boxes can also be recycled after use, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. This makes them an ideal choice for businesses that are committed to sustainability and reducing their environmental impact.
Why 4G Fibreboard Boxes are a Great Chose for Your Packaging Needs
UN Approved 4G Fibreboard Boxes are a great choice as they have been tested and certified for use with dangerous goods, provide superior protection for your products during transportation, are lightweight and cost-effective, and are environmentally friendly. They are compliant with UN transport regulations, making them the ideal choice for businesses that need to transport dangerous goods safely and efficiently.
If you need advice on packaging dangerous goods, contact Air Sea Containers today.
