Sending Dangerous Goods via Courier in New Zealand — What You Must Know
Shipping dangerous goods through a courier in New Zealand is not as simple as placing items in a cardboard box and sending them on their way. Whether you’re moving chemicals, samples, batteries, aerosols or other regulated items, there are strict requirements under the Land Transport Rule: Dangerous Goods 2005 and NZS 5433 that must be followed to ensure compliance and safety.
One of the most common issues we see is the use of non compliant packaging which is one of the fastest ways to get a shipment rejected, delayed or even reported.
Below, we break down what New Zealand couriers expect and how UN approved 4GV fibreboard boxes help you ship dangerous goods safely and legally.
Why Dangerous Goods Need UN Approved Packaging
When sending dangerous goods, the outer packaging must meet strict performance standards to ensure safety throughout transport. These standards help ensure packaging can:
- Withstand drops, compression and rough handling
- Contain spills and absorb impact
- Prevent leaks during normal transport conditions
- Support the required gross weight
- Fully comply with NZS 5433 for road transport within New Zealand
In many cases, businesses may rely on DGLQ limits or other exemptions when sending smaller quantities. However:
- When your shipment exceeds DGLQ limits or no exemption applies, you must follow the full applicable Packing Instruction, which typically requires UN approved packaging.
- Couriers such as NZ Couriers, Post Haste, NZ Post, DHL, FedEx and Aramex all follow the same compliance framework.
- If the goods are regulated and outside the exemption thresholds, they must be packed in certified packaging suitable for the hazard class.
- This is where 4GV “Variation” Boxes become the preferred solution, offering a compliant, flexible and fully certified option for a wide range of dangerous goods.
DG Solutions 4GV Fibreboard Boxes are NZ-Approved & Ready to Ship
DG Solutions provides a full range of UN approved 4GV boxes, manufactured locally and tested to international standards.
Our range includes:
- 4GV (41 kg) — Max inner weight: 25 kg
- 4GV (25 kg) — Max inner weight: 11 kg
- 4GV (16 kg) — Max inner weight: 6 kg
All cartons are:
- Fully compliant with NZS 5433, IATA DGR and IMDG Code
- Supplied flat packed for easy storage
- Equipped with assembly instructions
- Eligible for UN test certificates upon request
- Approved for courier transport across New Zealand
If you regularly send regulated products to clients, branches or distributors, using 4GV packaging helps avoid rejections, returns, and compliance delays.
Minimalist Design That Supports Your Branding
One key advantage of DG Solutions’ 4GV cartons is their intentionally minimalist design. Unlike many heavily branded UN boxes on the market, our cartons feature:
- Uncluttered panels with no large supplier logos
- Clear, compliant UN markings without visual distractions
- Dedicated blank space for your shipping labels, barcodes and handling instructions
- Room for your own branding if required, without conflicting with regulatory markings
This clean design keeps your consignments looking professional and avoids the confusion that can occur when boxes are covered in excessive graphics. It also allows freight forwarders, laboratories, manufacturers and exporters to maintain consistent branding across all shipments while still meeting strict packaging requirements.
Whether you're sending DG items daily or occasionally, our minimalist layout provides the flexibility and practicality needed for modern logistics.
Need 4GV Boxes or Courier DG Help?
If you're shipping dangerous goods via courier, getting the packaging right is step one.
Browse our 4GV range or get in touch for help with your next shipment:
Click here: https://www.dgsolutions.co.nz/collections/un-4gv-fibreboard-boxes