Not all goods transported are safe for people and the environment. Many substances – from fuels and paints to aerosol cosmetics and lithium batteries – can pose a potential hazard during transport. That is why the international ADR agreement is in force throughout Europe, which precisely defines how to classify, label and transport hazardous materials by land.
Knowledge of ADR rules is an obligation not only for carriers, but also for consignors and consignees. Incorrect classification of goods or lack of required documents can lead to heavy fines, vehicle detention and, in extreme cases, serious accidents.
At Jasek Transport, we deal with ADR on a daily basis as we transport dangerous goods domestically and internationally. We work in accordance with the applicable ADR regulations, ensuring proper labelling, documentation and securing of cargo.
In this article, we explain which goods are subject to ADR regulations, what hazard classes exist (1–9), and provide practical examples of products that may require special transport procedures. If you want to be sure that your shipments are transported in accordance with the law, start with the correct classification.
What are dangerous goods according to ADR?
Dangerous goods are all substances and objects which, due to their physical, chemical or biological properties, may pose a threat to human health, transport safety or the environment. According to the ADR agreement, each of these substances must be classified into one of nine hazard classes and labelled and packaged accordingly.
The classification is not random – the manufacturer or consignor of the goods must determine their nature and then assign a United Nations Number (UN number) and hazard category. It is on the basis of this number that the method of packaging, vehicle labelling and required safety measures are determined.
This does not only apply to ‘typical chemicals’. In practice, ADR applies to a huge number of everyday products – from paints and solvents, through lithium batteries, to deodorants and technical gas cylinders.
ADR classification – nine hazard classes
| ADR class | Type of material | Examples of goods |
| 1 | Explosive materials and articles | fireworks, ammunition, detonators |
| 2 | Gases | propane-butane, oxygen, aerosols, CO₂ |
| 3 | Flammable liquids | petrol, solvents, ethyl alcohol |
| 4 | Flammable solids | sulphur, charcoal, metal powders |
| 5 | Oxidising materials and organic peroxides | hydrogen peroxide, ammonium nitrate |
| 6 | Poisonous and infectious materials | pesticides, medical samples, laboratory waste |
| 7 | Radioactive materials | medical isotopes, X-ray equipment |
| 8 | Corrosive materials | sulphuric acid, alkalis, cleaning agents |
| 9 | Miscellaneous dangerous materials | lithium batteries, dry ice, industrial waste |
Each of the above classes has its own requirements for packaging, labelling and protective measures. Later in this article, we will discuss them in detail, along with practical examples from industries that most often transport these types of goods.
ADR classification – 9 hazard classes
The ADR classification is a system that allows you to clearly identify the type of hazard posed by a given material during road transport. Thanks to this, you can select the appropriate packaging, loading method, vehicle labelling and protective measures for the driver and the environment.
Each dangerous good is assigned to one of nine main ADR classes, some of which are further divided into subclasses that specify the level of risk or specific properties of the substance. In practice, this means that it is not enough to know that a product is ‘flammable’ – you need to know whether it is a liquid, gas, powder or oxidiser, as each of these cases requires a different logistical approach.
Each ADR class has its own graphic symbol (pictogram) which must be displayed on the container and transport vehicle. Incorrect labelling or lack of labelling is one of the most common reasons for penalties during ITD inspections.
Below you will find a list of all ADR classes with their descriptions and examples of the most commonly transported goods.
Class 1 – Explosive substances and articles
This is the most restrictive ADR category. It includes substances and articles that may explode as a result of impact, friction, heating or chemical reaction.
Examples: fireworks, ammunition, detonators, gunpowder, airbags.
Risks: shock wave, fire, scattering of fragments.
Requirements: strict quantity control, prohibition of mixing with other classes, special markings 1.1–1.6.
Class 2 – Gases
Substances in a gaseous or liquefied state that may be flammable, toxic or under pressure. This is one of the most common groups in ADR transport.
Examples: propane-butane (LPG), technical oxygen, acetylene, carbon dioxide, cosmetic aerosols.
Risks: explosion in case of leakage, suffocation, burns.
Requirements: cylinders must be certified and vehicles must be equipped with ventilation and orange plates with class 2 code.
Class 3 – Flammable liquids
Liquid substances that emit vapours capable of igniting on contact with air. This is the most commonly transported ADR class in industry and commerce.
Examples: petrol, solvents, paints, varnishes, ethyl alcohol.
Risks: fire, vapour poisoning.
Requirements: suitable certified containers, ventilation, no overheating above the flash point.
Class 4 – Combustible solids
Materials that may ignite as a result of friction or spontaneously when in contact with air or water.
Examples: sulphur, charcoal, matches, powdered metals (e.g. magnesium).
Risks: spontaneous combustion, dust explosion.
Requirements: must not be stored with oxidisers and Class 5 substances.
Class 5 – Oxidising substances and organic peroxides
Substances that supply oxygen and can cause or sustain the combustion of other materials.
Examples: ammonium nitrate (fertiliser), hydrogen peroxide, sodium chlorate.
Risks: violent chemical reaction, explosion on contact with fuel.
Requirements: strict separation from flammable materials, cooling during transport.
Class 6 – Toxic and infectious materials
Includes substances that are toxic to humans and animals, and biological materials that can transmit disease.
Examples: pesticides, insecticides, medical samples, biological waste.
Risks: poisoning, contamination, epidemiological threat.
Requirements: sealed containers, warning labels with a skull, training of medical personnel.
Class 7 – Radioactive materials
Goods containing radionuclides that emit ionising radiation. Transport requires permits and supervision.
Examples: isotopes for medical research, X-ray equipment, research samples.
Risks: radiation exposure, environmental contamination.
Requirements: lead shielding, sealing, transport only by certified entities.
Class 8 – Corrosive materials
Substances that can cause damage to skin, metals or other materials. Very common in the chemical and cleaning industries.
Examples: sulphuric acid, sodium hydroxide, ammonia, pipe cleaners.
Risks: burns, damage to vehicle structure.
Requirements: corrosion-resistant containers, personal protective equipment for the driver.
Class 9 – Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles
A group comprising substances that do not fit into the other classes but still pose a risk during transport.
Examples: lithium-ion batteries, dry ice, chemical waste, electronic equipment with batteries.
Risks: fire, gas leakage, energy release.
Requirements: protection against short circuits and overheating, no contact with moisture.
How to check which ADR class your goods belong to
Not every sender or manufacturer knows immediately whether their products are subject to ADR regulations. In practice, many substances and materials that appear harmless at first glance – such as paints, aerosols, batteries and cleaning products – require classification and labelling as dangerous goods. Therefore, correctly assigning a product to the appropriate ADR class is the first step towards safe and legal transport.
1. Check the product’s safety data sheet (MSDS/SDS)
Every manufacturer or distributor of a chemical substance is required to include a safety data sheet (MSDS or SDS).
In section 14 (‘Transport information’) you will find:
- the UN number (United Nations Number),
- the ADR class,
- the packing group (I, II or III) – indicating the level of danger,
- and any transport restriction codes (e.g. for tunnels).
Example:
- For solvent-based paint, the MSDS may contain the following entry:
- UN 1263, Class 3, Packaging Group III
- which means a flammable liquid with a low level of risk.
2. Find the UN number on the label or packaging.
If you do not have access to the safety data sheet, look for the ‘UN XXXX’ marking on the product packaging.
This number identifies a specific substance, e.g.:
- UN 1203 – petrol
- UN 1950 – aerosols
- UN 3480 – lithium-ion batteries
The UN number allows you to easily check the ADR class and detailed requirements in the official UN table.
3. Consult an ADR safety adviser
If you have any doubts about the classification, it is best to seek the help of an ADR adviser (DGSA – Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser).
Such a specialist:
- performs formal product classification,
- indicates packaging, labelling and documentation requirements,
- and prepares the company for ITD inspections or audits.
Tip: Companies that regularly transport ADR goods are required to appoint an ADR adviser or work with an external specialist.
4. Use UN databases and tables
There are publicly available UN classification tables (UN Tables A and B) containing a list of all substances covered by ADR, together with their assigned class and UN number.
By searching for the name of the material, you can check its:
- UN number,
- transport name,
- hazard class,
- packing group and special provisions (e.g. 640D, 640C) in a matter of seconds.
5. Ensure consistency between documents and labels
Classification is only the first step – every ADR transport requires consistency between the documentation, labelling and actual contents of the vehicle.
Inconsistencies (e.g. lack of ADR labelling on Class 3 goods) are one of the most common reasons for penalties and detentions during inspections.
Correctly determining the ADR class is not just a matter of regulations – it is a guarantee of the safety of your driver, cargo and company reputation. If in doubt, always consult an ADR advisor before the goods set off on their journey.
Examples of industries covered by ADR regulations
Many entrepreneurs associate ADR transport exclusively with heavy chemicals or fuels. However, the provisions of this agreement also apply to thousands of products used on a daily basis in various sectors of the economy. Dangerous goods are not only found in barrels and tankers, but also in small packages, cartons and even courier shipments.
Below are the most common industries whose products are regularly subject to ADR regulations, along with examples of specific goods and potential hazards.
1. Chemical industry
This is, of course, the basic group in the ADR system. In the transport of chemicals, most substances require special labelling and appropriate packaging.
Examples of goods: solvents, acids, bases, detergents, oxidisers.
Hazards: corrosive vapours, explosion, chemical reactions when materials are mixed.
2. Cosmetics industry
Although cosmetics are not associated with risk, many of them contain flammable or pressurised substances.
Examples of goods: hairsprays and aerosol deodorants (class 2), alcohol-based removers and perfumes (class 3).
Hazards: aerosol explosion, fire when overheated.
3. Automotive industry
Vehicle manufacturing and servicing involves many ADR products, both chemical and electrical.
Examples of goods: acid and lithium-ion batteries (classes 8 and 9), paints, varnishes, adhesives, airbags (class 1).
Hazards: electrolyte leaks, fire, airbag explosion during transport.
4. Pharmaceutical and medical industry
Biologically infectious or toxic materials are often transported in medical transport.
Examples of goods: laboratory samples (class 6.2), medical gases (class 2), medical waste.
Hazards: biological contamination, risk of infection, contact with toxins.
5. Agriculture and horticulture
Agriculture is one of the sectors where ADR is encountered in everyday practice, although many producers are unaware of this.
Examples of goods: nitrogen fertilisers (class 5), plant protection products and pesticides (class 6).
Hazards: toxicity, explosion if stored incorrectly, soil contamination.
6. Food and logistics industry
Some foodstuffs or industrial ingredients, such as chemical additives or dry ice coolants, also fall within the scope of ADR.
Examples of goods: dry ice (class 9), ethyl alcohol (class 3).
Hazards: CO₂ release, risk of suffocation, fire.
7. E-commerce and warehousing industry
With the growing number of shipments, there is an increase in the number of cases of unintentional transport of ADR goods in ordinary parcels.
Examples of goods: power banks and lithium batteries (class 9), varnishes and cleaning agents (classes 3 and 8).
Hazards: spontaneous combustion, short circuit, chemical reaction in bulk transport.
Even if your company does not operate in the chemical industry, it is worth checking whether the products in your offer belong to the ADR category. Often it is small goods – such as aerosols or batteries – that require special procedures that senders are unaware of.
What does incorrect ADR classification of goods mean?
When transporting hazardous materials, it is extremely important that each product is correctly classified and described in accordance with ADR regulations.
Incorrect classification of goods is, in fact, the most common mistake in the organisation of ADR transport.
Classification determines which hazard category a given goods belongs to, what packaging, labelling and transport documents it should have. It is what determines the safety of the entire process – from loading to delivery.
For companies commissioning transport, it is crucial to provide the carrier with complete and accurate information about the goods. This is not a formality, but a guarantee that the shipment will arrive safely, on time and without complications. Incorrect data in the description of the goods can lead to unnecessary delays or the need for reloading, which in turn generates additional logistics costs.
Proper classification allows you to:
- select the appropriate vehicle and load securing,
- avoid downtime at borders or terminals,
- comply with regulations in force in Poland and throughout the European Union,
- ensure consistency between documentation, labels and the actual contents of the shipment.
Therefore, if you are unsure whether your goods are subject to ADR regulations, it is worth consulting a specialist or ADR advisor. In practice, it is not always about ‘hazardous materials’ in the literal sense — the regulations also cover many everyday products, such as aerosols, paints, batteries and cleaning products.
A well-executed classification is an investment in certainty and peace of mind — it allows you to avoid problems along the way, and your shipment arrives where it should, without delays or stress.
How to prepare for ADR transport
Transporting goods covered by ADR regulations does not have to be complicated — the key is proper preparation. For companies that commission transport, the most important thing is to provide the carrier with all the necessary information about the goods and ensure that they are properly packaged. The rest is taken care of by a specialised team that knows the procedures and ensures compliance with regulations.
The first step is to identify the type of goods. It is worth checking whether the product is on the list of ADR materials (usually marked with a UN number). If so, its hazard class must be determined and the appropriate transport documents prepared, which the carrier attaches to the shipment.
The second element is packaging. Dangerous goods must be placed in packaging with appropriate certificates. In practice, this means that cartons, barrels or canisters have been previously tested and marked with a special code confirming their resistance.
Next, the shipment must be properly labelled – ADR labels inform all participants in the supply chain that the goods require special care. This ensures that loading, transport and unloading are carried out in accordance with procedures and the risk of accidental damage is minimised.
It is also important for the customer to choose a carrier that is licensed and experienced in ADR transport. Only such a partner has trained drivers, equipped vehicles and valid permits. A well-organised transport company can also help with preparing documents and checking the correctness of the classification.
Finally, there is the issue of insurance. When transporting ADR-covered materials, it is worth ensuring that the shipment is protected not only under the standard CMR, but also in terms of liability for dangerous goods.
Classification and examples of ADR goods – summary
The transport of hazardous materials requires precision, experience and knowledge of regulations, but it does not have to mean additional complications for the customer. The key is to choose a partner who understands the specifics of ADR transport and can take care of every stage – from classification and documentation to the safe delivery of the cargo to its destination.
If your company uses chemical, cosmetic, industrial or technical products, there is a good chance that some of them are subject to ADR regulations. Working with an experienced carrier allows you to avoid uncertainty and ensure that transport is carried out in full compliance with the standards in force in the United Kingdom and the European Union.
It is worth treating ADR not as a barrier, but as a system that increases the safety of the entire supply chain — protecting people, the environment and your business.
Do you need safe ADR transport in Poland or the European Union?
Trust a carrier who knows the regulations in practice, not just from regulations. At Jasek Transport, we have experience in handling all classes of hazardous materials — from chemicals, paints and lithium batteries to technical gases and flammable substances.
We provide not only properly trained drivers and ADR-certified vehicles, but also the documentation, labelling and punctuality that you can expect from a professional carrier. Contact us — we will offer a solution tailored to your specific load and ADR class it belongs to.
