The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted amendment 42-24 to the IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code), with mandatory entry into force from 1 January 2026. The voluntary application period began on 1 January 2025.
The main changes concern: the reclassification of certain chemical substances with new UN numbers; updated requirements for the packaging of lithium batteries (UN 3480 and UN 3481); new provisions for the transport of electric and hybrid vehicles by sea; and the revision of limited quantities for certain hazard classes.
For the transport of lithium batteries, the changes are particularly significant. The new special provisions require reinforced packaging and more detailed documentation on the state of charge of batteries. This has a direct impact on shipments of consumer electronics, electric vehicles and industrial components.
Franzosini SA, with its expertise in the transport of dangerous goods by both road (ADR) and sea (IMDG), has already updated its operational procedures to comply with the new provisions. Our team of DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations) specialists is trained on the latest regulatory changes.