# What information is needed for a dangerous-goods or reefer shipment?

Describe the product, quantity, packaging, route and handoffs before requesting a departure. Dangerous goods need classification and acceptance for the actual shipment; a reefer needs written temperature instructions and an agreed monitoring service. OVRSEA assesses each case with the parties involved.

[Source](https://www.ovrsea.com/insights/en/guides/prepare-dangerous-goods-reefer-shipment)

Language: en
Updated: 2026-10-16

## How OVRSEA approaches special cargo

OVRSEA reviews dangerous-goods (DG) and temperature-controlled shipments case by case. The product, packaging, full route and participating providers determine what is feasible. Supply the constraints before asking for a firm sailing; an option under study is not a confirmed booking.

## What belongs in a dangerous-goods file?

The [International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code](https://www.imo.org/en/ourwork/safety/pages/dangerousgoods-default.aspx) is the international framework for packaged dangerous goods at sea. Have competent people establish or verify the proper shipping name, UN number, hazard class and packing group where applicable. Include product identity, quantities, packaging and requested safety documents, including the safety data sheet when required.

A trade name alone cannot determine transport classification or packaging requirements. Ask who validates the file, how missing information is resolved and which carrier and route have accepted it. Report any change in product, quantity or packaging before execution.

## Which reefer instructions should be written down?

The person responsible for the product should provide the set temperature and, where relevant, ventilation, humidity and monitoring requirements. [Maersk's carriage terms](https://terms.maersk.com/carriage) illustrate why the nature of the goods and required settings must be stated in writing. Also define the expected monitoring output: which readings, frequency, access and journey stages. A report after delivery and an actionable alert during transit are different services.

Cover handover and receipt conditions too. A temperature setting alone says nothing about preparing or loading the goods or the consignee's capacity to receive them.

## How should the whole route be checked?

| Stage | Question before booking |
|---|---|
| Pickup and inland leg | Does the provider accept the cargo and equipment? |
| Terminal and loading | Which approvals and deadlines apply? |
| Transshipment | Does the routing remain compatible with the product? |
| Delivery | Does the consignee have the right equipment and instructions? |
| Incident | Who receives the alert and may decide? |

For reefers, identify power supply and monitoring at each handoff. For DG, obtain the acceptance of each competent participant. A route change can invalidate assumptions made for the first itinerary.

## What proves the shipment is accepted?

Keep a confirmation tied to the submitted cargo data, service and conditions. List any information still outstanding and the quotation's limits. Establish incident contacts, records to retain and decision authority. For a temperature excursion, the designated product specialists decide what happens to the goods. [Discuss a DG or reefer case with OVRSEA](https://www.ovrsea.com/insights/en/talk-to-an-expert).

## FAQ

### Is a safety data sheet enough to book dangerous goods?

No. The carrier may require more information. Acceptance must match the product, quantities, packaging and route proposed.

### Does a reefer automatically provide live temperature monitoring?

No. Ask which readings are available, how often, at what stages and who responds to an alert. The answer depends on the booked service and equipment.

### Can the route change after special-cargo acceptance?

A route change may introduce new carriers, terminals or rules. Have the new itinerary reviewed and the required acceptances confirmed before it is used.