Key Takeaways
- The standard for chemical or B3 transportation is regulated under Government Law Number 74 of 2001 and several regulations from the Ministry of Transportation, depending on the mode of transportation used.
- The international standards for chemical transportation that are commonly used include the IMDG Code, IATA, and UN Model Regulations.
- Chemical transportation standards include label selection and hazard warnings, SDS, and packaging based on the characteristics of the material.
Chemical and dangerous goods transportation requires specific treatment, as each material has different characteristics, such as flammable, toxic, corrosive, and even hazardous to the environment.
In Indonesia, the standard for chemical transportation has been regulated under Government Law Number 74 of 2001 and the Regulation of the Ministry of Transportation Number 16 of 2021, while internationally, several standards have been established.
Let’s explore the explanation below to understand several regulations for dangerous goods transportation depending on the company’s needs.
Regulations for Transportation and Handling of Chemicals in Indonesia
A company that engages in chemical handling and transportation activities requires licensing and regulations established by the government. Some regulations that can be used as a guideline include:
1. Government Regulation Number 74 of 2001
Government Regulation Number 74 of 2001 regulates the Management of Hazardous and Toxic Substances (B3). The regulation includes various aspects of dangerous goods management, including handling, storage, transportation, and management.
2. Regulation of the Minister of Transportation Number 16 of 2021
Ministry of Transportation Number 16 of 2021 is about Procedures for the Handling and Transportation of Hazardous Substances at Ports.
This regulation can be a reference for handling activities (storage and loading/unloading) and transportation of dangerous goods at ports according to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code), along with its revision.
3. Regulation of the Minister of Transportation Number 77 of 2021
Regulation of the Minister of Transportation Number 77 of 2021 about the Competency of Human Resources in the Transportation of Dangerous Goods by Road regulates the handling and transportation of dangerous goods via road.
This regulation concerns the competence of human resources in handling dangerous goods to understand the characteristics of loads and the necessary procedures.
4. Regulation of the Minister of Transportation Number 32 of 2022
Permits for the transport of dangerous goods via air are also governed under specific regulations outlined in Regulation of the Minister of Transportation Number 32 of 2022 concerning Civil Aviation Safety Regulations, Part 92.
This regulation governs the safe transport of dangerous goods by aircraft and replaces the Regulation of the Minister of Transportation Number 90 of 2013 as revised through the Ministerial Regulation Number 58 of 2016.
Read also: B3 Waste: Definition, Examples, and How to Handle It
The International Standard for Chemical Transportation
International standards specific to the mode of transportation are also involved in the cross-border distribution of chemicals to comply with regulations from countries of origin and destination. The following are some of the standards:
1. IMDG Code
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) regulates procedures for the transportation of dangerous goods by sea and has been established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
This standard regulates various aspects, such as packaging, labeling, documentation, loading, content development, and separation of incompatible materials. The IMDG Code is also a mandatory requirement for maritime safety under SOLAS.
2. IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations
The International Air Transport Association Dangerous Goods Regulations (IATA DGR) are one of the primary references for transportation of dangerous goods by air. This regulation helps shippers, logistics companies, and airlines understand the requirements that must be met before shipping dangerous goods by air.
The requirements include classification, packaging, labeling, documentation, and procedures for handling dangerous goods.
3. UN Model Regulations
UN Model Regulations serve as one of the key aspects for the harmonization of regulations governing the transportation of dangerous goods across various countries.
The latest available edition is UN Model Regulations Rev. 24 of 2025. It provides a framework for the classification, identification, packaging, labeling, documentation, and other requirements related to dangerous goods transportation.
Read also: 7 Advantages of Sea Shipping & Important Things to Consider
Chemical Transportation Standards, What to Consider?
After understanding the regulations for chemical transportation, a company should ensure each distribution process has been prepared properly. Several aspects to consider are as follows:
1. Using Appropriate Labels and Warnings
Each chemical should be identified based on its hazard characteristics to determine the label, symbols, and warnings to be displayed on the packaging or mode of transport.
Pictograms and hazard information help the worker and transportation operator to understand the risk of loads. Labeling should also follow the applicable rules for each mode of transportation.
2. Completing Safety Data Sheets
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) contain important information about the characteristics and hazards of a chemical. This document generally consists of 16 sections that help those who handle chemicals understand the risk and safety procedures involved in storage, handling, and transportation.
Before shipment, SDS should be verified against the actual condition of goods. It can be a reference to determine PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), packaging materials, and handling during an emergency, such as a leak.
3. Using the Right Container or Packaging
Packaging must be tailored to the physical and chemical characteristics to ensure that the cargo remains safe during handling and transit. Make sure the packaging material is also compatible with the materials being shipped.
For example, a corrosive liquid requires a container made from inert material (not prone to react with other chemicals) to prevent damage to the packaging.
Trusted Chemical Logistics Solutions by CDI Group
Land and marine logistics services that comprehend cargo characteristics, fleet requirements, and storage procedures can assist the needs of chemical transportation. Regarding this, PT Chandra Daya Investasi Tbk (CDI Group) offers a comprehensive solution.
For sea logistics, CDI Group, through its subsidiary PT Chandra Shipping International (CSI), operates more than 10 LPG and chemical carriers with capacities ranging from approximately 4,200 to 9,600 DWT.
Meanwhile, PT SCG Barito Logistics (SBL) handles land logistics, including inter-island, maritime transport, export-import, customs, and warehouse management, supported by more than 200 trucks.
The ecosystem is also supported by PT Chandra Cold Chain (CCC), with a cold storage capacity of 700+ pallet positions, and a warehouse facility by PT Chandra Warehouse Cilegon (CWC) with a land area of 51K+ m² in the Cilegon area.
With this support, CDI Group can meet the industry’s supply chain needs while also serving as #YourGrowthPartner. Therefore, always entrust your company’s logistics needs to CDI Group! Do not hesitate to contact us and discover the solutions tailored to your company’s logistics needs.
Read also: Liquid Bulk Cargo: Learn the Types, & Transporting Procedures
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still have questions regarding regulations and requirements of chemical transportation? Find out some frequently asked questions below.
1. What are the Hazard Classifications for Chemicals?
According to the regulations for transportation of dangerous goods established by the United Nations (UN), the classification of hazardous materials consists of 9 categories: explosives, gases, flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidizing substances and organic peroxides, toxic and infectious substances, radioactive materials, corrosive substances, and other hazardous materials.
2. What Is an MSDS for Chemicals?
MSDS, or Material Safety Data Sheets, is a safety document that provides information about the characteristics, hazards, handling, storage, and safety acts against chemicals.
3. How Many Classes of Hazardous Goods?
According to the international standard of the IMDG Code and IATA, dangerous goods are classified into 9 classes, ranging from explosives to other hazardous materials.