Dangerous Goods (DG/IMO) and MRN Closure - What You Need to Know
Exporting dangerous goods (DG - Dangerous Goods, IMO classification) through European ports is subject to additional requirements that directly affect MRN closure. A missing or incomplete DG declaration in the port system can block export confirmation, even if the customs export itself is correct. We explain why this happens and how we handle it.
Why Do Dangerous Goods Complicate MRN Closure?
Standard MRN closure requires export registration in the port system and confirmation by the customs system. For DG/IMO goods, there are additional steps:
- DG declaration in the port system - in addition to the standard export registration, the port system requires a separate dangerous goods declaration with the full classification (IMO class, UN number, proper shipping name, packing group)
- Terminal verification - port terminals carry out additional inspections of DG cargo: they check container markings, warning placards, and documentation. Discrepancies can halt processing.
- Segregated storage zones - DG containers have restrictions on their location on the vessel and at the terminal (distance from other cargo, ventilation). This extends handling time.
- Additional customs messages - in some port systems, DG export registration generates additional messages to customs authorities, which lengthens the processing path
How We Handle Dangerous Goods
MRN closures for DG cargo require additional work on our part - therefore, in German ports we charge a surcharge of EUR 15 on top of the standard price (in Dutch and Belgian ports, DG handling is included in the standard price).
What we do differently for DG goods:
- We verify whether the DG declaration has been correctly submitted in the port system
- If it is missing - we submit the DG declaration based on documentation provided by the client
- We coordinate with the terminal in case of discrepancies in classification or markings
- We monitor DG-specific statuses in the port system
Pricing for DG/IMO Goods
| Port | Standard Price | DG Surcharge | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hamburg | EUR 21 | +EUR 15 | EUR 36 |
| Bremerhaven | EUR 21 | +EUR 15 | EUR 36 |
| Wilhelmshaven | EUR 21 | +EUR 15 | EUR 36 |
| Rotterdam | EUR 15 | included | EUR 15 |
| Antwerp | EUR 15 | included | EUR 15 |
Full pricing: MRN closure pricing.
What DG Documents Do We Need?
In addition to the standard set (MRN, container number, booking, B/L), for dangerous goods we need:
- UN number of the goods - a four-digit classification number (e.g., UN 1203 for gasoline/petrol)
- IMO class - hazard class (1-9) in accordance with the IMDG Code
- Proper Shipping Name - in accordance with the IMDG Code
- Packing Group - I, II, or III (if applicable)
- Container Packing Certificate - if required by the shipping line
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you handle MRN closure for IMO/DG goods?
Yes, in all ports we serve. In German ports we charge an additional fee of EUR 15 due to additional declarations. In NL/BE ports, DG handling is included in the standard price.
Why does MRN closure for DG goods take longer?
Port systems require a separate DG declaration on top of the standard export registration. Missing or incomplete DG data blocks processing. Terminals also have additional inspection procedures for IMO cargo.
What DG documents are required?
In addition to standard documents, we need: the UN number of the goods, the IMO class, the proper shipping name compliant with the IMDG Code, the packing group, and any certificates. Details are agreed on a case-by-case basis.
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