Special provisions for alcoholic beverage shipping…

It seems that there is some confusion over the movement of alcoholic beverages with a number of companies not taking full advantage of the special provisions set out in the dangerous goods regulations for road, sea or air.

The main constituent is ethanol (UN1170) and many companies are shipping beverages  or doing alcohol delivery UK under that entry. This does not take into account the other ‘flavourings’ that are added to the ethanol but it still remains the predominant substance, therefore they are using the original entry.

Now, in principle there is nothing really wrong with that; except that in doing so they are not giving due consideration to the product use. As an alcoholic beverage, using this entry does allow for further tolerances (for instance) for road and sea transport:
•    SP247 – with alcohol content between 24 – 70%, they can be transported in wooden barrels (as part of the manufacturing process), up to a capacity of 500L
•    SP145 – if packing group III (with a flashpoint between 23-60ᵒC) they can be transported up to a capacity of 250L and are not subject to the regulations
•    SP144 – if they contain 24% or less alcohol they are not subject to the regulations at all

Manufacturers and shippers really do need to be aware of these allowances as it can save on both costs and red tape; we all know the amount of red tape required under the ‘duty’ requirements so why add to it?

If you know of a company making this alcohol delivery UK mistake, please share this article with them or if you’d like more information or advice yourselves, please ring us now on 01933 445260 or  send us a message  and we would be pleased to help!

The Movement of Alcoholic Beverages

Llewellyn Europe