Class 3 is the most common dangerous goods class we see leaving China. It covers liquids with a flash point of not more than 60 degrees C (closed cup), from paints and adhesives to solvents, alcohols and fragrances. We handle Class 3 exports by sea (FCL and LCL), by air and by express, with the packaging and documents prepared before the cargo moves.
Products we commonly ship
- Paints, coatings, inks, varnishes and thinners (for example UN1263)
- Adhesives, sealants and resins (for example UN1133)
- Solvents, ethanol and isopropanol
- Perfumery products, fragrances and alcohol-based cosmetics such as nail polish
- Flammable cleaning agents, degreasers and other formulated chemical products
Packing groups
Class 3 liquids are assigned to Packing Group I, II or III according to boiling point and flash point. The packing group decides which UN packaging you must use, the maximum quantity per package on aircraft, and how the cargo is stowed at sea. It is shown in Section 14 of the SDS.
Packaging and marking
- UN-certified drums, jerricans or combination packagings rated for the packing group
- Secure closures, inner packagings and absorbent material where required
- Class 3 hazard label, UN number, proper shipping name and orientation arrows
- Marine pollutant mark where the product qualifies
- For small inner packs, Limited Quantity packaging can reduce cost and paperwork
For sea shipments from China, the packaging performance inspection certificate and use inspection certificate issued by China Customs are normally required, unless an exemption such as Limited Quantity applies. See our goods packaging page.
How Class 3 is shipped
- Sea: full container loads are the simplest option. Class 3 must be segregated from oxidizers and other incompatible classes. See DG Sea FCL and DG Sea LCL.
- Air: accepted within per-package limits that depend on the packing group, with lower limits on passenger aircraft. See DG Air Freight.
- Express: small samples of Class 3 goods can move through selected express carriers under their own acceptance rules.
What we need to quote your shipment
Send us the details below and we will confirm routing, carrier acceptance and price for your Class 3 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 3 shipping FAQ
Is nail polish or perfume dangerous goods?
Often yes. Nail polish, perfume and other products containing flammable solvents are commonly Class 3, depending on the flash point of the formula. Small inner packagings may qualify for Limited Quantity handling. Send us the SDS and we will confirm.
Can water-based paint ship as non-dangerous cargo?
Sometimes. Water-based products with a high flash point may not be regulated, but this must be supported by the SDS or a classification report. We review the documents before advising.
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.