Class 2 covers gases that are compressed, liquefied, dissolved or refrigerated. They travel under pressure, so the cylinder, the valve and the packaging matter as much as the paperwork. We arrange Class 2 exports from China by sea and by air under the IMDG Code and the IATA DGR.
The three divisions of Class 2
| Division | Hazard | Typical examples |
|---|---|---|
| 2.1 | Flammable gas | LPG, propane, butane, hydrogen, acetylene, many aerosols |
| 2.2 | Non-flammable, non-toxic gas | Nitrogen, argon, carbon dioxide, most refrigerant gases, oxygen (subsidiary risk 5.1) |
| 2.3 | Toxic gas | Chlorine, anhydrous ammonia, hydrogen sulfide |
Products we commonly ship
- Industrial gas cylinders: nitrogen, argon, CO2, oxygen, helium
- Refrigerant gases in cylinders and drums, such as R134a and R410A
- Aerosols (UN1950), including cosmetics, air fresheners and spray paints
- Gas cartridges, lighters and lighter refills
- Fire extinguishers and other pressure receptacles
Packaging and cylinder requirements
- Cylinders and pressure receptacles must be UN-approved, marked and within their periodic test date
- Valves closed and protected with caps or guards, with no leaks
- Aerosols packed in UN-rated outer packaging, or as Limited Quantity where the inner size allows
- In China, cylinder inspection reports or similar certificates are often used in place of the standard packaging performance certificate. We confirm what your cargo needs before booking.
Sea and air considerations
By sea, Class 2 cargo moves in full container loads with stowage and segregation rules that depend on the gas and its subsidiary hazards. Some carriers and ports restrict certain gases, especially toxic Division 2.3 gases, so we check acceptance before you commit to a sailing.
By air, many Class 2 gases are accepted on cargo aircraft only and per-package quantities are strictly limited. Toxic gases are heavily restricted. Tell us early if your product must travel by air.
What we need to quote your shipment
Send us the details below and we will confirm routing, carrier acceptance and price for your Class 2 cargo.
- Product name, UN number, class and packing group (from the SDS, Section 14)
- Current SDS (16 sections) and, for batteries, the UN38.3 test summary
- Quantity, package type and gross weight per package
- Origin city or port, destination port or address, and Incoterm
- Cargo ready date and required delivery date
Class 2 shipping FAQ
Can aerosols be shipped by air?
Yes, within limits. Aerosols (UN1950) are Class 2 goods and can travel by air as Limited Quantity or as fully regulated dangerous goods, subject to per-package limits, correct packaging and a compliant declaration.
Do I need an SDS for a gas shipment?
Yes. Every dangerous goods booking needs a current 16-section SDS so that the classification, UN number and packing details can be verified.
Regulations are revised regularly. IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 is mandatory from 1 January 2026 and the 67th Edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations applies during 2026. Requirements vary by carrier, port and destination, so please contact us to confirm the rules for your specific shipment.