What is in an Overpack?

Over the last few months I have seen so much confusion regarding what is an Overpack I thought I would take the time to provide some assistance.

If you look up the word Overpack it states "An enclosure used by a single Shipper to contain one or more packages and to form 1 handling unit for convenience for handling and stowage"

This is when collect multiple boxes being transported to the same consignee together on one pallet or place the multiple boxes in a wood or fibreboard pallet box. We generally secure all the items together by strapping or shrink-wrapping the boxes in one convenient handling unit.  It seems for most of us we generally don't get too confused when we are shipping multiple boxes on a pallet.

1. If we can see all of the marks and labels that represent the danger on all the boxes, then no further action is required.
2. If we cannot see all of the marks and labels that represent the danger on all the boxes, the following action is required;

Marking & Labelling of an Overpack

All Modes (Air, Road & Sea) - The pallet must be marked with OVERPACK in 12 mm letters  

 Marking & Labelling of a Package for Dangerous Goods Transportation

"Dangerous Goods contained in the Overpack must be properly marked, labelled and in a proper condition as required by the regulations."

This requires that every dangerous goods package that is being placed in the overpack MUST meet the regulations for Air, Road or Sea. Accurate Marking, Labelling and Handling labels should be found.

So when we are placing boxes inside a large fibreboard /wood box or pallet box

 In summary only correctly marked and labelled dangerous goods may be placed in an Overpack.  You cannot just place your dangerous goods articles in an outer package and call this an OVERPACK unless the contents inside are properly marked and labelled.

                     Correct Packages                                                                                              Incorrect Packages

                 Correct Overpack                                                                                              Incorrect Overpack                        

Note: Lithium Ion Batteries that are packed with Equipment is not considered an overpack. The batteries should be secured in inner packages against movement with the piece of equipment they intend to power.