Dangerous goods in the Christmas businessRisks, regulations and recommendations for action for online retailers and customers

The Christmas period is not only the time with the highest turnover for online retailers, but also brings with it special challenges. Many everyday products that are often ordered as gifts fall legally under the category of dangerous goods and are subject to strict shipping regulations. Retailers who do not adhere to these rules risk high fines, loss of image and safety hazards.

What is dangerous goods?

Dangerous goods include substances and objects that may pose a risk to people, the environment or property due to their chemical or physical properties. These include flammable, explosive, toxic or environmentally hazardous materials.

Typical dangerous goods classes are:

Class 2:

Gases (e.g. aerosol cans, hair sprays)

Class 3:

Flammable liquids (e.g. perfumes, alcohol)

Class 4:

Flammable solids (e.g. matches)

Class 9:

Various hazardous substances (e.g. lithium-ion batteries)

What do retailers need to consider?

Online retailers have additional responsibilities during the Christmas period, especially if they sell products that are subject to dangerous goods regulations. This also applies to smaller stores that are active on platforms such as Etsy, eBay or Amazon, as well as to private individuals who trade as a sideline.

What needs to be considered?

Dangerous goods must generally be packed securely so that they are neither damaged nor pose a risk during transportation. Specific requirements must be met depending on the class of dangerous goods. Important aspects include:c

Safe packaging: Shockproof, leak-proof materials suitable for the respective dangerous goods class.
Compliance with regulations: Packaging units must meet the requirements of the respective regulation.
Flexibility with exceptions: Some shipping methods or small quantities (e.g. under Limited Quantities) allow deviations. It is therefore important to check the respective conditions carefully.
Inadequate or incorrect packaging may result in transport companies refusing acceptance.

Gefahrgutetiketten Negativbeispiel Haftkraft

Labeling errors: an often underestimated risk

Many retailers underestimate the importance of correct labeling. Common problems arise from:

Missing labeling: This is a clear violation of legal regulations.
Incorrect label formats or layouts: Labels that do not meet applicable standards (e.g. incorrect size, inappropriate colors or symbols) may also be subject to complaint. Incorrect labeling is legally assessed in the same way as completely missing labeling.
Illegible or damaged labels: These can also be considered inadmissible and mean that the dangerous goods may not be transported.

Consequences of violations

Fines: These apply not only for missing labeling, but also for incorrect labeling.
Legal liability: Incorrect labeling can lead to accidents for which the dealer will be held liable.
Loss of image: Such mistakes can permanently damage customer trust.

Kunden: Was tun bei Gefahrgutlieferungen und Retouren?

Not only retailers, but also customers bear responsibility when handling dangerous goods. Certain aspects are particularly important here:

Pay attention to labels:

Packages containing dangerous goods are labeled with appropriate symbols. These should be observed, especially when handling rechargeable batteries, aerosol cans or perfumes.

How to organize return shipments correctly:

Safe storage:

Products such as rechargeable batteries, spray cans or flammable liquids should be stored in a safe place and away from heat sources.

Why there is a need for action right now

The Christmas season brings with it an enormous increase in shipping volumes. Many smaller retailers are unaware of the dangerous goods regulations or disregard them out of ignorance. However, mistakes can have serious consequences – from safety risks to legal consequences – especially with everyday products such as perfumes, electronic devices and spray cans.

Save 20% now until 08.12.2024

With a 20% discount, Black Week is the perfect opportunity to buy high-quality hazardous goods labels and marking products at a low price. Secure your stocks and benefit from our tested quality and the best prices.

Code: Black24

The promotion only runs until December 8, 2024 – the promotion is subject to change and may end early.
OPEN SHOP

Conclusion

It is crucial for online retailers to inform themselves about dangerous goods regulations and implement them in order to avoid penalties and risks. Customers should be aware of the potential dangers and handle parcels containing dangerous goods accordingly. With the right dangerous goods labels and professional advice, such as that offered by BOXLAB Services, retailers can ensure that they get through the Christmas period in a legally compliant and efficient manner.

Get free advice now

Contact us today to find out more about our dangerous goods labels and other intralogistics solutions and to arrange a personal appointment.

Get in touch

Mischa Feig

CEO und Gründer

+49 174 3199 452

mischa@boxlab-services.com

Conditions

Conditions for our Black Week promotion from 21.11. to 08.12.2024

Discount: 20% on all items in our store.
Exceptions: The discount does not apply to the item Raclan Box, item number 680001.
Minimum order value: The order value of the items in the shopping cart must be at least €75 (net).
One-time use: The offer can only be redeemed once per customer.
Promotion period: The promotion is only valid from 21.11.2024 up to and including 08.12.2024.
Changes and premature end: We expressly reserve the right to change the conditions or end the promotion prematurely.
Please note that we reserve the right to take appropriate measures in the event of abuse or breaches of the terms and conditions.

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