UN / DOT Package Certification

Partners:
http://www.phmsa.dot.gov/hazmat

Certifications:
UN Third-Party Certification Agency (+CJ)

What is:
UN Certification consists of subjecting packages containing dangerous (hazardous) goods to Performance Oriented Package (POP) testing. This is a certification that must be attained prior to shipping any packages containing dangerous goods in non-exempt quantities. The testing typically consists of a series or combination of drop, stacking, vibration and pressure testing.  The exact packaging requirements and package test procedures are outlined in the 49-CFR.

FAQ’s:
Q: How do I know whether I need UN Certification or not?
A: You must look up the proper shipping name of the item being shipped in the Hazardous Materials Table listed in Paragraph 172.101of the 49-CFR to determine obtain the packaging instructions and determine if you need certification.

Q: What should I do once I determine I need certification?
A: Contact our DOT team at Westpak at dot@westpak.com or call (408) 224-1300 to obtain a proposal. Once you obtain a proposal and approve it, you will be asked to sign the proposal and provide a purchase order. Your test will then be scheduled and a certification report issued upon its successful completion.

Q: How many samples do I need to submit for testing?
A: A minimum of 5 complete package systems are required for testing. Westpak also recommends submitting a 6th package for analysis.

Q: Is there anything else I need to submit?
A: Yes, you are required to provide detailed drawing of all packaging components to be included in the report.

Q: How long will testing take?
A: Once test is started, please allow 1 week for testing to be completed and another 5 days for the certification report.


Unique Application:
Westpak is approved to certify the following package types:

Non-bulk packagings

  • Fiberboard boxes
  • Metal drums and jerricans
  • Plastic drums and jerricans
  • Other Boxes
  • Paper bags
  • Plastic in metal composite packagings
  • Plastic in other composite packagings
  • Other composite packagings

We are also expanding our facilities to certify Solid and Liquid IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers).
A typical test sequence for Fiberboard boxes is:

  • Conditioning per 49-CFR 178.602 or 178.603
  • Drop Test per 49-CFR 178.603
  • Stacking Test per 49-CFR 178.606
  • Vibration Test per 49-CFR 178.608
  • Internal Pressure Test per 49-CFR 173.27c (if applicable)

Below, you can find a list of identification codes for packaging:
Numeral Indication:

  • “1” means a drum
  • “2” means a wooden barrel
  • “3” means a jerrican
  • “4” means a box
  • “5” means a bag
  • “6” means a composite package
  • “7” means a pressure receptable

A Capital Letter Indicates:

  • “A” means steel (all types)
  • “B” means aluminum
  • “C” means natural wood
  • “D” means plywood
  • “F” means reconstituted wood
  • “G” means fiberboard
  • “H” means plastic
  • “L” means textile
  • “M” means paper, multi-wall
  • “N” means metal
  • “P” means glass

Quality:
Westpak is an ISO 9001:2000 registered and ISO 17025 accredited company that takes pride in its quality system. All equipment used for tested is maintained and calibrated to the highest standard. For more details Westpak quality, please refer to: http://www.westpak.com/quality.asp