The world of maritime logistics is constantly evolving, and the transport of dangerous goods is no exception. In 2024 and 2025, significant amendments to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code come into force, fundamentally changing the rules for all participants in the supply chain. From stricter requirements for shipping lithium batteries to new regulations for charcoal cargoes, these changes are aimed at enhancing safety and adapting to new technological realities.

The merchant fleet, as the artery of the global economy, moves millions of tons of cargo daily, a significant portion of which consists of substances and materials classified as dangerous. To ensure the safety of crews, ships, and the marine environment, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regularly updates the IMDG Code. Let's look at the key innovations that demand attention today.

A New Era for Dangerous Goods: Amendment 42-24 to the IMDG Code

The central event of the coming years is the entry into force of Amendment 42-24 to the IMDG Code. While its mandatory application begins on January 1, 2026, industry stakeholders can voluntarily apply it starting from January 1, 2025. This transition period gives companies time to adapt their processes and documentation.

Key changes within Amendment 42-24:

1. Focus on Batteries: In response to the rapid growth in the production and transport of energy storage devices, new UN numbers are being introduced for sodium-ion batteries (UN 3551 and UN 3552), as well as for vehicles powered by lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries (UN 3556, UN 3557, UN 3558). This requires shippers to be more precise in the classification and declaration of such goods.
2. Stricter Rules for Charcoal: Due to the increased incidence of fires on container ships caused by the self-ignition of charcoal and charcoal briquettes, the rules for their transport have been significantly tightened. Such cargoes can no longer be exempted from the Code under special provisions. Strict requirements for weathering the cargo before shipment, packaging, and temperature control are being introduced.
3. Reclassification and Clarifications: The amendment clarifies the classification of organic peroxides and revises the criteria for marine pollutants. This will help avoid ambiguity and improve the accuracy of declarations.
4. More Detailed Stowage Plans: The requirements for stowage and securing plans are becoming stricter. It is now necessary to clearly indicate not only the primary but also subsidiary hazards, so that everyone handling the cargo has a full understanding of the potential risks.

Already in Force: Amendment 41-22

It's worth remembering that Amendment 41-22 has been in effect since January 1, 2024. It also introduced several important changes, including:

1. Composite Tank Containers: The transport in tank containers made of fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) materials has been legalized, paving the way for the use of lighter and more modern packaging.
2. Lithium Battery Marking: A requirement has been introduced to include a telephone number on the lithium battery mark to obtain additional information in case of an incident.
3. New Definitions: Definitions have been clarified, particularly for "pressure receptacle shell," which promotes a uniform interpretation of the rules.

The Broader Context: Safety and Environment

In addition to the IMDG Code amendments, it is important to note other changes in maritime transport regulation affecting the industry:

1. Mandatory Reporting of Lost Containers: Starting in 2026, amendments to the SOLAS Convention will come into force, requiring shipmasters to report all containers lost at sea. This will enhance navigational safety and allow for a faster response to potential environmental threats.
2. Emission Control Areas (ECAs): The expansion of areas with special emission requirements, such as the Mediterranean Sea becoming a Sulphur Oxides ECA from May 1, 2025, is forcing shipowners to switch to cleaner fuels, which themselves can be dangerous goods.

What Does This Mean for Business?

For shippers, carriers, forwarders, and port authorities, these innovations mean they need to:

1. Update documentation and software: All systems used for classifying, packing, marking, and declaring dangerous goods must be aligned with the latest requirements.
2. Conduct personnel training: Employees at all stages of the logistics chain must be aware of the new rules to ensure their correct application.
3. Review risk management processes: Stricter rules demand a more thorough approach to assessing and mitigating risks associated with transporting specific goods, such as batteries and charcoal.
4. Invest in new technologies: The use of modern solutions for cargo tracking, temperature control, and container condition monitoring is becoming not just a competitive advantage, but a critical necessity.

The maritime transport of dangerous goods is entering a new era of regulation. Adapting to these changes is not just a matter of compliance, but a key factor in ensuring safety, protecting the environment, and building a sustainable and responsible logistics of the future.