IATA Outer Packaging Boxes

IATA DGR subsection 6.2 provides specifications for a variety of different packaging types. The following are different types of boxes used for packaging:

Metal boxes must be lined with fiberboard or felt packing pieces or have an inner liner or coating. Metal boxes are divided into three categories:

• 4A - steel boxes
• 4B - aluminum boxes
• 4N - metal boxes, other than steel or aluminum

Natural wood boxes must be well-seasoned, commercially dry, and free from any defects that could lessen the effectiveness of the box. The tops and bottoms may be made of water-resistant reconstituted wood. Fastenings must be resistant to vibration experienced during normal conditions of transport. Natural wood boxes are divided into two categories:

• 4C1 - ordinary natural wood box
• 4C2 - sift-proof walled natural wood box

Plywood boxes are coded as 4D. They must consist of at least 3-ply plywood made from a well-seasoned rotary cut and be commercially dry and free from defects. All adjacent plies must be glued with a water-resistant adhesive.

Reconstituted wood boxes are coded as 4F. The walls must be made of water-resistant reconstituted wood, such as hardboard or particle board.

Fiberboard boxes are coded as 4G. They must consist of strong, good-quality solid or double-faced corrugated fiberboard. The fiberboard must be cut, creased without scoring, and slotted to permit assembly without cracking, breaking, or bending.

Plastic boxes must be manufactured from suitable plastic and be of adequate strength. It must also be resistant to aging and degradation caused either by the substance contained or by ultra-violet radiation. Plastic boxes are divided into two categories:

• 4H1 - expanded plastic boxes
• 4H2 - solid plastic boxes

*The maximum net weight for metal, natural wood, plywood, reconstituted wood, and fiberboard boxes is 400 kg.*The maximum net weight for an expanded plastic box is 60 kg, and the maximum net weight for a solid plastic box is 400 kg.

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