The carriage of dangerous goods by sea remains one of the most critical operational risk areas in modern shipping. Misclassification, inadequate packaging, incorrect labelling or incomplete documentation continue to cause fires, pollution, injuries and major P&I and hull claims.
The guide Book it Right and Pack it Tight, published by the UK P&I Club and TT Club, directly addresses these risks by translating the IMDG Code Amendment 42-24—mandatory from 1 January 2026—into practical, operational guidance for the entire supply chain.
Turning regulation into real safety
The IMDG Code is not just a regulatory framework; it is a structured safety process. The guide breaks this process into seven essential steps, from classification and packaging selection through to segregation, container packing and the issuance of the packing certificate.
Each step is interdependent. Failure at any stage undermines the whole system. The role of the container packer is particularly critical, as signing the packing certificate constitutes a legally binding declaration of compliance.
Proper packing equals risk mitigation
From an insurance perspective, IMDG non-compliance is never a minor issue. It can lead to cover restrictions, recovery actions, regulatory penalties and reputational damage. The guide clearly shows that most incidents stem from insufficient training, poor communication or operational shortcuts.
By aligning IMDG requirements with the CTU Code, operators can adopt a truly preventive approach—ensuring load stability, chemical compatibility, adequate ventilation and crew safety.
A clear message to the industry
“Book it right and pack it tight” is not a catchphrase; it is a discipline. Correct booking and rigorous packing are fundamental to protecting lives, vessels, cargo and the environment.
For shipowners, logistics operators and insurers alike, this publication now stands as an essential reference point for best practice.
CTA
Is your organisation fully prepared for IMDG Code Amendment 42-24, or are legacy practices still creating hidden exposure?
Source & Reference
- Organisation: UK P&I Club & TT Club (Thomas Miller)
- Document: Book it Right and Pack it Tight – Guidance on packing dangerous goods for carriage by sea
- Official link: https://www.ukpandi.com/news-and-resources/news/article/book-it-right-and-pack-it-tight-updated/
Hashtags:
#IMDGCode #DangerousGoods #MaritimeSafety #LossPrevention #ContainerPacking #ShippingRisk #MarineInsurance
Editorial slogan:
Knowledge, precision, responsibility — every day in shipping and beyond.
