Are Waterborne Coil Coatings Dangerous Goods for Shipping?
Key facts
| System | Base | Transport |
|---|---|---|
| PG-S1 | Waterborne | General cargo per TDS; protect from freezing |
| PG-W | Waterborne | Per its SDS; protect from freezing |
| PG-C | Solvent-based | Expected to ship as dangerous goods |
Where to find the answer
Section 14 of the safety data sheet gives the transport classification — UN number, class and packing group, or a statement that the product is not regulated. For sea freight the relevant code is the IMDG Code.
Why waterborne is not automatically safe
Waterborne coatings can contain co-solvents or other components that change their classification. Two-component products may have one component that is regulated and one that is not. Always check both.
Freezing
Water-based products can be ruined by freezing — they may separate or fail to form a film afterwards. Winter shipments through cold regions need insulated or heated containers.
What this means for your project
Ask for the SDS of each component before booking freight. PG SDS documents can be requested from the downloads page.
