The World Shipping Council (WSC), IGP&I and TT Club have created a reference guide to ensure shippers are well informed about IMDG Code changes regarding safe charcoal cargo transport.
The shipping industry is taking steps to implement improved safety measures for transporting charcoal, ahead of mandatory IMO regulations in 2026. Starting in 2025, tighter rules for charcoal shipments (UN 1361) will be implemented to improve the safety of transportation staff, cargo, vessels, and the entire supply chain.
Charcoal shipments have caused serious fires on containerships, mainly due to improper handling, non-declaration, and problematic regulation. To address this, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has updated the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code to enhance cargo safety and protect everyone working in the supply chain.
Treating all charcoal as dangerous goods ensures uniform safety standards and gives everyone involved – from shippers to carriers – the tools and clarity needed to prevent future
tragedies.
…said Joe Kramek, President and CEO, World Shipping Council (WSC).
Key changes starting 2025:
- Mandatory Declaration as Dangerous Goods: Shippers must declare all charcoal shipments as Dangerous Goods with detailed documentation. No exemptions are allowed, as Special Provisions 925 and 223 are removed, and a new Special Provision 978 is introduced.
- Treatment before Packing: Charcoal must undergo a specific weathering process after production or a process after pyrolysis, unless otherwise approved by the competent authority.
- Packing: Charcoal must not exceed 40°C on the day of packing. Packaging requirements have been updated, and unpackaged charcoal in containers (bulk transport) remains prohibited.
- Stowage within the Cargo Transport Unit (CTU): A 30cm gap must be left between the cargo and the top of the container. Two options are provided: i) the stowage height of the package(s) should not exceed 1.5m, or ii) the maximum block size of the packages should be 16m³, with at least 15cm of space between blocks. (Note: These options may require coordination between the shipper and carrier).
Recommendations for charcoal producers, handlers and shippers:
- Update Operations: Align production, handling, and shipping processes with IMDG Code Amendment 42-24.
- Training Requirements: Provide mandatory IMDG Code training for shore-based staff as outlined in Chapter 1.3.
- Apply the IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice for Packing of Cargo Transport Units (CTU Code): Use the ‘CTU Code – A Quick Guide’ to ensure safe charcoal transport in containers.
- Declare and Document: Ensure accurate documentation and proper declaration of all charcoal shipments to your carrier to avoid rejection, fines, delays, and incidents.
- Liaise: Coordinate with your carrier on any specific transport terms.
