Excepted Quantities (EQ)

Excepted Quantities (EQ) labels are used to identify dangerous goods shipped in very small quantities that qualify for the most simplified regulatory provisions under international transport rules. These shipments contain hazardous materials in limited amounts that present minimal overall risk, allowing reduced packaging, documentation and marking requirements while still ensuring essential safety standards.

The EQ label features the distinctive red‑bordered diamond with the “E” marking, providing immediate recognition for carriers, warehouse operators and emergency responders. This marking is mandatory whenever dangerous goods are transported under the Excepted Quantities provisions of IATA/DGR, ADR, IMDG, RID and ADN, ensuring consistent compliance across air, road, sea, rail and inland waterways.

Excepted Quantities are widely used in e‑commerce, chemical distribution, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, laboratories and retail supply chains. Typical products shipped under EQ include small volumes of flammable liquids, aerosols, adhesives, paints, cleaning agents, diagnostic kits and consumer chemicals. The EQ label ensures that even low‑risk shipments remain correctly identified throughout the logistics chain.

Using the correct EQ marking helps prevent handling errors, supports efficient acceptance checks and ensures that packages are not misclassified during transport. It is an essential component of safe and compliant movement of small‑quantity dangerous goods.

We offer Excepted Quantities (EQ) labels in polypropylene (100×100 mm), available with text, without text or customised on‑demand printing. Packs of 10, 50 and 100 units are available, as well as rolls of 250, 500 and 1000 to support all dangerous goods operations.

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only; customers must always consult the applicable regulations.