What is the DGD (Dangerous Goods Declaration)?
Unlike the ADR Consignment Note for land transport, the DGD is the mandatory declaration for the transport of dangerous goods by air and sea. It is a highly precise document that does not allow for errors, similar to the accompanying documents for land-based goods under the ADR code.
The DGD is a form that the consignor (shipper) must complete and sign to certify that the dangerous goods shipment has been correctly packed, labelled, and declared according to applicable international regulations. It is a legal declaration and the basis for the carrier to accept the cargo with the liability cover assigned to them by legislation for the transport of this type of goods by both sea and air.
When and where it is used
As already mentioned, this documentation is mandatory for dangerous goods that are not transported by land. For each mode, there is specific documentation:
Air Transport
Under IATA DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations).
Sea Transport
Under IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code) regulations.
In each case, the form is slightly different to comply with the specificities of the transport mode, which means sufficient knowledge is required to complete them with due guarantees.
Essential Content of the DGD
The DGD contains much more detailed information than a standard consignment note. Key data includes:
Consignor and Consignee Information
Complete data of the parties involved in transport.
UN Number, Proper Shipping Name, and Hazard Class
Specific identification of dangerous goods according to international regulations.
Packing Group and Quantity
Specification of net/gross weight and packaging classification.
Packing Instructions
Indicates the type of approved packaging used.
Emergency Information
24-hour contact telephone number in case of an incident.
Shipper's Signature
Certifies the veracity of the declaration and compliance with regulations.
It is very important to reiterate that only a person with the appropriate training and certification can complete and sign a DGD. An error can result in fines, detention of cargo, or, in the worst case, a serious accident with the responsibilities that this can entail for the consignor of the goods.
Related documentation
The Loading Receipt
Document that certifies the delivery of goods to the carrier, key in logistics and shipment control.
CMR Convention
Mandatory international document for road transport between countries signatory to the CMR convention.
SAD (Single Administrative Document)
Presents the essential customs form for import and export operations outside the EU.
EAD (Export Accompanying Document)
Document that certifies the effective exit of goods exported from the EU.
EUR-1
Certificate that allows obtaining tariff benefits in exports to countries with preferential agreements.
ATR
Document that certifies the customs status of products between the EU and Turkey, allowing certain tax exemptions.
Transit T1 and T2
Documents that allow the movement of goods under customs control within or outside the EU customs territory.
Summary Declaration
Document containing prior information on goods arriving or leaving the customs territory for control and security purposes.