Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers: Shipping CIJ Fluids Without Surprises
Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers govern how your CIJ inks, make-up and cleaners move across borders, carriers and modes. This expanded, regulation-backed operations guide converts rules into concrete decisions—classification, Proper Shipping Name (PSN), packing group, packaging, marking, labeling, documentation, and modal differences—so you ship safely, on time, and with minimum lawful cost. For full context across consumables families and solvents, see our pillar page Coding & Marking Consumables (CIJ/TIJ/TTO/Laser).
Foundations for Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
Most CIJ fluids are flammable liquid mixtures based on MEK, ethanol, isopropanol or acetone. That normally places them in Class 3 and—because printing ink has a specific entry—under UN 1210. Getting Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers right unlocks lawful reliefs (LQ/EQ), proper packaging, and smooth acceptance; getting them wrong triggers refusals, storage fees, or fines.
- UN Number: four-digit identifier for dangerous goods (e.g., UN 1210 for printing ink and related material).
- PSN (Proper Shipping Name): the exact legal name printed on packages and documents; must be verbatim.
- Hazard Class: transport hazard category; most CIJ fluids are Class 3 (Flammable liquid).
- Packing Group (PG): relative danger within a class—I high, II medium, III low; driven by flash point and initial boiling point.
| Key question | If YES | If NO | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Is it a printing ink or related material (thinner, make-up, cleaner)? | Use UN 1210 with the correct PSN (“PRINTING INK …” or “PRINTING INK RELATED MATERIAL …”) | Consider generic flammable liquids (e.g., UN 1993) only if truly more accurate | Specific entries outrank N.O.S. if applicable |
| Do SDS values indicate Class 3? | Proceed with Class 3; determine PG from flash point & IBP | Re-check class or mixture; CIJ is commonly Class 3 | Verify from Section 9 and 14 (not marketing text) |
Class 3 if FP <= 60 °C (closed cup) and behaviour meets flammable liquid criteria; PG ≈ f(FP, IBP)
For families and solvents background that influence Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers outcomes, see CIJ Ink Families: MEK vs Ethanol vs Dye-Pigment.
The Core Four of Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
UN Number mapping that stabilizes Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
Use UN 1210 for printing ink and related materials. The UN entry is the backbone of your labels and documents; it also steers LQ/EQ options and modal constraints.
PSN options to anchor Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
- PRINTING INK, flammable — finished inks (colorant + solvent)
- PRINTING INK RELATED MATERIAL (including printing ink thinning or reducing compound), flammable — make-up, cleaners, thinners
| Product | UN | PSN | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black CIJ ink (dye) | UN 1210 | PRINTING INK, flammable | Specific entry fits finished inks |
| Make-up (thinner) | UN 1210 | PRINTING INK RELATED MATERIAL …, flammable | Related material matches thinning/cleaning role |
Class 3 implications for Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
Class 3 drives the need for the red flammable liquid label on fully regulated packages, and it influences which LQ/EQ windows are available by mode.
Packing Group logic inside Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
PG II vs PG III shifts inner-container limits and costs. Always compute PG from actual SDS values (Section 9) and match to the legal table.
Packing Group Estimator (Class 3)
From SDS to Decisions in Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
Never copy Section 14 blindly. Extract Section 9 values and independently verify against the legal PG table. The following workflow yields a defensible classification.
- Collect latest SDS (region-specific revision).
- Extract flash point (closed cup), initial boiling point, density, and viscosity.
- Assign UN 1210 if it truthfully fits; pick precise PSN.
- Determine Class 3; compute PG by thresholds; record rationale.
- Assess LQ/EQ by mode (ground, air, sea); confirm carrier acceptance if using air LQ.
- Select packaging (4G/Y…/Z…) or strong outer where permitted; apply markings/labels.
- Prepare shipping papers and, for air/sea, dangerous goods declaration (DGD); attach SDS if required.
PG = (FP < 23 && IBP > 35) ? II : (FP ≥ 23 && FP <= 60 ? III : Review)Exact thresholds: consult the current table for Class 3 PG assignment; this sketch is orientation only.
SDS Version Comparator
For solvent selection that influences flash point while preserving print quality, see CIJ Inks, Make-Up & Cleaners.
Energy Cost Calculator
Incoterms Cost Calculator (FOB to DDP)
ROI & Payback Period Calculator
Packaging That Operationalizes Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
Packaging codes determine suitability, performance tests, and what must be printed/embossed on boxes. For CIJ fluids, combination packagings with fiberboard outers (4G) are common.
UN specification codes decoded for Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
| Code | Meaning | Use case |
|---|---|---|
| UN 4G/Y25/S/25/USA/+ID | Fiberboard box; PG II (Y); solids/combination; 25 kg gross; tested in US | Kits of 250–1000 mL inners (ink/make-up) |
| UN 4G/Z30/S/25/USA/+ID | As above, PG III (Z) | Ethanol-rich PG III blends |
UN 4G Packaging Code Decoder
Reliefs that interact with Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers: LQ/EQ
Limited Quantity and Excepted Quantity reduce either labeling or paperwork when inner sizes and PG fit the rule. Air requires Y-LQ and extra performance tests; some carriers disallow LQ entirely by policy.
Limited Quantity Eligibility Checker
For DDP scenarios and SDS handling that travel with these choices, review Solvent Safety & MSDS: Packing CIJ Consumables for DDP.
Modal Differences that Reshape Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
Ground: generous LQ inner sizes; check 30 kg gross caps and orientation arrows. Air: Y-LQ mark, smaller inner limits, acceptance tests; policies vary by integrator. Sea: IMDG closely follows the UN Model Regs but adds stowage/segregation logistics; booking confirmation is key.
| Mode | PG | Inner size (mL) | Inners / outer | Net per outer (L) | Est. gross (kg) | Eligibility | Mark/Label | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground | II | 1000 | 12 | 12.0 | ≈ 12×0.80 + 3.5 = 13.1 | LQ | LQ diamond | assumes ρ = 0.80 kg/L; a 30 kg gross cap is typical |
| Ground | III | 2500 | 4 | 10.0 | ≈ 10×0.82 + 4.0 = 12.2 | LQ | LQ diamond | PG III ground LQ: inner-container limits are often higher |
| Air | II | ≤1000 | 6–12 | ≤12 | subject to the typical 30 kg gross limit | Y-LQ (carriers may refuse) | Y-LQ mark | requires performance testing and carrier pre-acceptance |
| Sea | II/III | ≤1000 / ≤2500* | 12 / 4–6* | ≤12 / ≤10* | depends on density, outer-package marking and carrier constraints | LQ (IMDG table) | LQ diamond | per IMDG Column 7 limit* |
| Any | II/III | 30–100 | per EQ rules | Very low | Very low | EQ | EQ mark | preferred route for lab samples |
LQ/EQ Matrix Builder (per outer)
For line performance under differing routes (temperature, humidity, volatility), see CIJ Print Quality Troubleshooting Checklist.
Worked Examples that Operationalize Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
Videojet-type MEK make-up (PG II)
Classification: UN 1210; PSN “PRINTING INK RELATED MATERIAL (including printing ink thinning or reducing compound), flammable”; Class 3; PG II typical when FP < 23 °C with IBP > 35 °C. Docs: LQ by ground (inner ≤ 1 L) ⇒ BOL; fully regulated by air ⇒ DGD + acceptance. Packaging: 4G/Y… combination with tested inners.
Ethanol-rich black ink (PG III candidate)
Higher flash point while still Class 3 often yields PG III. Ground LQ can raise inner-size limits compared with PG II, reducing outer counts and handling fees—Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers directly influence cost.
Lab sample (EQ)
Small volumes may qualify for Excepted Quantity with the EQ mark (air requires the Y variant). Performance tests and outer construction limits still apply; it’s the cheapest compliant path for trial fluids.
Domino CIJ black ink (typical MEK blend)
SDS signals: Class 3; UN 1210; PSN “PRINTING INK”; FP commonly < 23 °C; IBP > 35 °C ⇒ PG II common.
Shipping paper (ground fully regulated example): UN 1210, PRINTING INK, flammable, 3, PG II
LQ path: inner ≤ 1 L may use ground LQ; air Y-LQ requires acceptance and tests.
Markem-Imaje CIJ make-up (PG II/III by formulation)
SDS signals: Repository lists regional SDS; many entries show UN 1210 with PSN “PRINTING INK” or “PRINTING INK RELATED MATERIAL”, Class 3; PG varies II/III by solvent.
Shipping paper (air fully regulated example): UN 1210, PRINTING INK RELATED MATERIAL (including printing ink thinning or reducing compound), flammable, 3, PG II
Note: Y-LQ is tighter; seek carrier acceptance in writing.
Leibinger CIJ ink (PG II)
SDS signals: Typically lists UN 1210 / “PRINTING INK” / Class 3 / often PG II.
Sea: If LQ limits are met under IMDG, use LQ with diamond mark; otherwise fully regulated with Class 3 label and DGD.
How Many Outers Do I Need?
| Scenario | Line text | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ink (fully regulated) | UN 1210, PRINTING INK, flammable, 3, PG II | Add quantity/packaging per regs |
| Related material (make-up) | UN 1210, PRINTING INK RELATED MATERIAL (including printing ink thinning or reducing compound), flammable, 3, PG II | Use for cleaners/thinners as well |
For more solvent families and print effects, see CIJ Inks, Make-Up & Cleaners (cluster).
Quality Assurance that Hardens Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
An audit-proof trail documents the classification logic, packaging choice, marking/labeling, and all acceptance steps. Build a single-page SOP sheet per SKU/route.
One-page audit sheet (SOP) keyed to Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
- Attach SDS PDF & capture Section 9 values (FP, IBP, density, viscosity).
- Write classification line: UN 1210, PSN, Class 3, PG.
- Record LQ/EQ analysis by mode; if air LQ, add acceptance email/file.
- Record packaging code (e.g., 4G/Y…/Z…); list inner count and sizes.
- Paste shipping paper line(s); add BOL/DGD references.
- Include photos (labels, marks, orientation arrows, 4G code close-ups).
- Sign-off with trained staff initials and date.
- Box face with UN 1210 + PSN text in focus
- Class 3 label or LQ/Y-LQ mark (100–150 mm edge) unobstructed
- Orientation arrows (where required) and placement relative to text
- 4G/Y…/Z… code macro shot showing year/country/test ID
- Sealed edges/tape integrity; moisture-resistant substrate
- Weigh scale readout (gross weight capture)
- Pallet overview (stretch-wrap, cornerboards, labels outward)
| Carrier / Integrator | Route | Product (UN/PSN/PG) | LQ by Air? | Conditions / Tests | Contact / Email | Date / Time | Notes / File link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UN 1210 / PRINTING INK / PG II | Accepted / Refused | name@carrier.com | YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm | /evidence/acceptance-email.pdf |
Carrier Acceptance Note Generator
Audit Sheet Builder (checklist output)
Savings ≈ (OutersFR − OutersLQ) × HandlingFeeouter − (Extra Testsair)
Where Outers = ⌈ TotalVolume ÷ (InnerLimit × InnersPerOuter) ⌉
Marking & Labeling as the Face of Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
When fully regulated, apply the red flammable liquid label (Class 3). Under LQ, apply the LQ diamond (air requires the Y variant). Labels must be durable, not obscured, and appropriately sized for readability and audit photos.
Class 3 label setup aligned with Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
- Design: red diamond with flame; numeral “3”.
- Size: typically ≥ 100 × 100 mm; consider 150 × 150 mm for large faces or distant reading.
- Placement: near UN/PSN text; keep clear of tape/straps.
Class 3 Label Size Checker
| Scenario | Marks | Labels | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fully regulated, combo pack | UN 1210 + PSN; shipper/consignee | Class 3 | Orientation arrows if required |
| Ground LQ (PG II/III) | LQ diamond; optional UN text on outer | (No Class 3) | Strong outer packaging + inner limits |
| Air LQ (if permitted) | Y-LQ diamond | (No Class 3) | Gross cap & performance tests apply |
For practical solvent handling and MSDS workflows aligned to these visuals, see Solvent Safety & MSDS: Packing CIJ Consumables for DDP.
Glossary Anchored in Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
- UN Number
- Four-digit code identifying the dangerous goods entry (e.g., UN 1210).
- PSN
- Proper Shipping Name—printed verbatim on packages and docs.
- Packing Group
- Relative degree of danger within a hazard class (I>II>III).
- LQ/EQ
- Limited/Excepted Quantity reliefs affecting marks/labels and testing.
Unified Hydrator for Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers Tools
FAQ Oriented by Hazmat Labels & UN Numbers
Do I ever use UN 1993 for CIJ fluids?
Only when UN 1210 is objectively not applicable. Specific entries outrank generic N.O.S.
When does a subsidiary risk label apply?
Only when transport criteria for an additional class are met (e.g., Corrosive 8); typical CIJ hazards don’t usually trigger it.
Can I always use LQ by air?
No—Y-LQ is tighter and some integrators refuse it. Obtain written acceptance before packing.
References
- PHMSA — DOT Chart 17 overview (page with PDF link)
- PHMSA — DOT Chart 17 PDF (2022)
- eCFR 49 CFR §172.407 — Label specifications
- eCFR 49 CFR §172.315 — Limited quantities; Y-mark by air
- eCFR 49 CFR §173.121 — Packing group assignment (Class 3)
- eCFR 49 CFR §178.503 — Marking of packagings
- UNECE — UN Model Regulations (Rev. 23) PDF
- UNECE — GHS Rev. 9 overview | GHS Rev. 9 PDF
- UNECE — ADR 2023 downloads | ADR 2023 Vol. 1 PDF
- FAA — Small/Excepted Quantities & Packaging (Air) PDF
- Videojet — SDS Make-Up V705-D (PDF)
- Domino — SDS for printing ink (example PDF)
- Domino Amjet — SDS IC-2BK106 PRINTING INK (PDF)
- Markem-Imaje — SDS repository (search by reference)
- Leibinger — SDS (example PDF: UN 1210 / PRINTING INK)
- Leibinger — SDS (example PDF: 79000-00004)
- Tiflex — SDS CIJ black ink (PDF)
- U-Mark — Printing ink SDS (UN1210 class 3, PG III) PDF
- Diagraph — Printing ink SDS (UN1210) PDF
