Questions and Answers

Export of essential oils, mostly immortelle, basil and lavender, have experienced great expansion in recent years. Serbian essential oils have found their place in many pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies around the world. Although apparently not, essential oils are treated as dangerous substances in transport due due to their chemical composition and biological activity. The main reason why they fall into this category is the low flash point. Some of the oils can ignite even at a temperature of 50 °C. Otherwise, the term hazardous substances means all substances that have such characteristics that they can cause consequences harmful to health and the environment. This is most often due to irresponsible and / or unprofessional handling, packaging, storage or transport. Special attention should be paid to the transport of dangerous goods in terms of choosing transport means, technical and technological means of manipulation, environmental research, and especially the education of persons who come into contact with dangerous goods.Since the quantities of essential oils that are shipped are relatively small, and the product itself has a great value, they are most often transported by air. A prerequisite for a transport company is to be registered for this type of service, and that its staff is certified and trained to handle hazardous materials. In case of air transportation that should be – IATA DGR – International Air Transport Association Dangerous Goods regulation, which is the main document at the global level when it comes to the safe air transport of dangerous goods. At the same time, the manufacturer / consignor is obliged to provide the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) issued by an authorized laboratory after performing the necessary analyzes. It is a technical document that contains all the relevant information regarding the substance being transported and, in fact, defines the level of danger to humans and the environment. During a preparation of a shipment of essential oil for transport, special attention is paid to the packaging. Packaging instructions are included in the MSDS, and the procedure may only be performed by a certified person (the manufacturer or the agent representing him). The process of packaging hazardous materials is a very sensitive segment and requires great attention, because it directly affects the safety aspect of transport. On that occasion, it is necessary to choose quality packaging with pre-tested performance prescribed by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization). In addition to the packaging itself, adequate marking and declaration is also necessary. After finishing packaging process, we prepare transport documentation – AWB (Air waybill) and DG declaration, which is a clear instruction to all participants in the supply chain of hazardous substances. If this process seems complicated to you, the cargo-partner team will be happy to provide you with additional information and organize transport for you! Best Regards, cargo-partner | transport + iLogistics