- 7 documents required, no exceptions. Missing any one of these seven documents will stop your UN3536 shipment at the port gate. There is no workaround.
- DG Classification Report and DG Packaging Certificate (危包证) are the two most commonly delayed documents. Manufacturers consistently underestimate the timeline for both. Start these first.
- UN38.3 Test Report mandatory for all lithium battery shipments from Chinese ports. Ningbo has required it since October 2025. Even at ports where it is not explicitly stated in booking requirements, customs will request it during declaration.
- Great Hensen pre-verifies all documentation before booking. 100 percent accuracy across 1,000+ TEU shipped. Zero port rejections due to documentation.
1. Document checklist at a glance
| # | Document | Chinese Name | Issued By | Timeline | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DG Classification Report | 危险品分类鉴定报告 | Certified lab (e.g., Shanghai Chemical Institute, CCIC) | 5-7 working days | 1 year |
| 2 | DG Packaging Certificate | 危险货物包装使用鉴定结果单 (危包证) | Local CIQ (Customs Inspection & Quarantine) | 7-10 working days (expedited: 3 days) | Single shipment |
| 3 | Performance Certificate | 包装性能检验结果单 | Packaging manufacturer / CIQ | 3-5 working days | 1 year |
| 4 | MSDS | 材料安全技术说明书 | Manufacturer or authorized agent | 2-3 working days | 3 years (or upon product change) |
| 5 | Maritime DG Declaration | 海运危险货物申报单 | Freight forwarder submits to MSA | 3 working days before departure | Single voyage |
| 6 | Port Filing Approval | 港口危险货物作业附证 | Port authority | 5 working days before port arrival | 30 days |
| 7 | Container Packing Certificate | 集装箱装箱证明书 | DG-certified packing inspector | 1 working day after packing | Single shipment |
2. Document 1: DG Classification Report (危险品分类鉴定报告)
This is the foundational document. It is the official laboratory determination that your product is a dangerous good and which UN number applies. Without this, no other document in the chain is valid. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) IMDG Code, the DG classification report must be issued by a competent authority recognized by the flag state.
Who issues it
Certified laboratories accredited by China's CNAS (China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment). Common labs used for UN3536 classification include the Shanghai Chemical Institute (上海化工研究院), CCIC (中国检验认证集团), and provincial inspection and testing centers.
What it contains
- Product name and manufacturer details
- UN number (must state UN3536 for BESS)
- Class (Class 9, Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods)
- Packing group (usually PG II or III, or not assigned for Class 9)
- Test methods and results
- Validity period and issuing authority stamp
Common rejection reasons
- UN number mismatch: report says UN3480 but cargo is clearly UN3536
- Expired report: report is older than 1 year at time of shipment
- Product description mismatch: report describes battery cells but cargo is a complete BESS container
Timeline: 5 to 7 working days standard. 3 working days expedited (additional fee). Cannot be issued retroactively: if your cargo arrives at port without this report, the timeline starts from zero.
3. Document 2: DG Packaging Certificate (危包证/使用鉴定结果单)
This is the most frequently delayed document in the entire UN3536 export process. Its official name is "Dangerous Goods Packaging Use Appraisal Result" (危险货物包装使用鉴定结果单), universally referred to in the industry as 危包证. According to the China Ministry of Transport (MOT), over 90% of DG shipment delays at Chinese ports involve documentation issues, with the 危包证 being the single most common bottleneck.
Who issues it
The local CIQ (Customs Inspection and Quarantine bureau, 出入境检验检疫局) in the jurisdiction where the cargo is packed. For UN3536 cargo packed at Qingdao, this is the Qingdao CIQ.
What it certifies
The CIQ inspector examines the actual packaging of the specific shipment and certifies that: (1) the packaging type matches the performance certificate, (2) the packaging is appropriate for the specific dangerous goods being shipped, and (3) the packing operation was conducted correctly and safely.
Common rejection reasons
- Expired or missing Performance Certificate: The 危包证 relies on a valid Performance Certificate. If the Performance Certificate expires before the CIQ inspection, the 危包证 cannot be issued.
- Cargo not ready for inspection: CIQ requires physical inspection of the packed container. If the container is not fully packed when the inspector arrives, the appointment is lost and must be rescheduled.
- Packaging mismatch: The actual packaging (container type, securing method) does not match what was declared in the Performance Certificate application.
Timeline: 7 to 10 working days standard. 3 working days expedited with pre-reviewed documentation (Great Hensen standard process).
4. Document 3: Performance Certificate (包装性能检验结果单)
The Performance Certificate is a prerequisite for the DG Packaging Certificate. It certifies that the packaging type (not the specific shipment) has passed performance tests.
Who issues it
The packaging manufacturer, validated by CIQ. For UN3536, where the CTU container itself is the packaging, the container manufacturer's CSC Safety Approval Plate serves as partial evidence, but a separate Performance Certificate is still required for DG classification purposes.
What it covers
- Packaging type and specification (e.g., 40ft High Cube Container, CSC number)
- Drop test results (for UN-spec packaging; for UN3536, the CSC structural test standards apply)
- Stacking test results
- Leakproofness test (if applicable)
- Validity period: 1 year from date of issue
Timeline: 3 to 5 working days. Should be obtained in parallel with the DG Classification Report, as it does not depend on the classification result.
5. Document 4: MSDS (材料安全技术说明书)
The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a standardized document that describes the chemical and physical properties of the product, its hazards, safe handling procedures, and emergency response measures.
Who issues it
The manufacturer or an authorized agent. For UN3536 BESS, the battery system manufacturer prepares the MSDS based on the battery cell chemistry (typically LFP or NMC).
What it must include
- Product and company identification
- Hazard identification (Class 9, lithium battery risks)
- Composition and ingredient information (battery chemistry)
- Firefighting measures (lithium battery fire protocols: use of water, not CO2)
- Transport information: UN3536, Class 9, IMDG SP389
- Regulatory information: reference to JT/T 1543-2025 and IMDG Code edition
Common rejection reasons
- Outdated IMDG Code edition reference (must reference Amendment 42-24 or later in 2026)
- Missing firefighting measures specific to lithium battery fires
- UN number mismatch with DG Classification Report
Timeline: 2 to 3 working days for a competent manufacturer. If the manufacturer does not have an in-house MSDS capability, we can prepare one through our partner labs.
6. Document 5: Maritime DG Declaration (海运危险货物申报单)
This is the formal declaration to the Maritime Safety Administration (MSA, 海事局) that dangerous goods will be loaded onto a specific vessel at a specific port on a specific date. Under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) IMDG Code requirements, the DG declaration must be filed by a qualified dangerous goods declarant holding a valid MSA license. It is filed by the freight forwarder on behalf of the shipper.
Who submits it
The licensed freight forwarder (or DG declarant, 危险货物申报员) submits to the MSA at the port of loading. Great Hensen holds DG declaration licenses at Qingdao, Shanghai, Ningbo, and Shenzhen.
Filing requirements by port
- Qingdao: 3 working days before vessel departure. 24-48 hour approval turnaround (fastest in China).
- Shanghai: 7 working days before vessel departure. Requires advance MSA filing with all supporting documents attached at time of submission.
- Ningbo: 3 working days before vessel departure. UN38.3 Test Report must be attached.
- Shenzhen (Yantian): 3 working days before vessel departure. For overweight cargo (over 30 tons): 3-day advance terminal notification additionally required.
Timeline: Filed 3 to 7 working days before vessel departure depending on port. Approval typically within 24 to 72 hours.
7. Document 6: Port Filing Approval (港口危险货物作业附证)
This is the port authority's permission for the specific dangerous goods cargo to enter the port area and be handled at the DG terminal. It is separate from the MSA maritime declaration.
Who issues it
The port authority (e.g., Qingdao Port Group, Shanghai International Port Group).
What it covers
- Cargo description and UN number
- Container number and seal number
- Planned arrival date at port gate and permitted stay period
- Assigned DG yard location within the terminal
Port-specific notes
- Qingdao: UN3536 cargo handled regularly by experienced port operators. Filing accepted up to 5 working days before planned arrival.
- Shanghai: Waigaoqiao and Yangshan DG zones. Yangshan required for overweight UN3536 cargo (over 30 tons).
- Ningbo: Chuanshan terminal DG zone. Advance cargo manifest required.
- Shenzhen: Yantian Terminal 9 DG zone. Container must arrive with valid CSC plate visible.
Timeline: Filed 5 working days before cargo arrival at port. Approval typically within 48 hours.
8. Document 7: Container Packing Certificate (集装箱装箱证明书)
This certificate confirms that the dangerous goods were packed into the container by a qualified DG packing supervisor, in accordance with the IMDG Code and Chinese regulations.
Who issues it
A DG-certified container packing inspector (危险货物集装箱装箱检查员). The inspector must hold a valid qualification certificate issued by the MSA.
The packing inspection covers
- Container condition (CSC plate valid, no structural damage, door seals intact)
- Cargo securing (lashing, bracing, blocking per the securing plan)
- Placarding and marking (Class 9 placards on all 4 sides, UN3536 marking on 2 opposing sides)
- Documentation pack inside the container (MSDS, emergency response guide)
- Photographic evidence of the packed container from all angles
At Qingdao, our CFS (Container Freight Station) is 5 km from the Qianwan Container Terminal. We conduct the packing inspection at our facility before the container moves to the terminal, giving us the ability to correct any issues without demurrage pressure.
9. Port-specific additional documents
Beyond the core 7 documents, specific Chinese ports require additional documentation for UN3536 shipments. Here is what to expect by port:
| Port | Additional Documents | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Qingdao | Shandong MSA SOC declaration form, crane capacity verification (for units over 30t) | Great Hensen's home port. We pre-file both documents as part of our standard UN3536 service. |
| Shanghai | MSA advance filing receipt, Yangshan terminal DG allocation confirmation (for overweight cargo) | 7-day advance filing is the longest in China. Plan your production schedule accordingly. |
| Ningbo | UN38.3 Test Report (mandatory, not optional), provincial MSA DG filing supplement | UN38.3 is a hard requirement for all lithium battery DG bookings at Ningbo since October 2025. |
| Shenzhen | Terminal bearing test report (for units over 30t), SOC container approval letter (if using shipper-owned containers) | Yantian terminal requires bearing test confirming ground pressure of at least 50 tons per square meter for heavy UN3536 units. |
10. Document timeline: 30-day countdown to sailing
Here is the optimal documentation timeline based on our experience with 1,000+ UN3536 shipments. Starting any of these processes late creates a cascading delay.
| Day | Action | Depends On |
|---|---|---|
| T-30 | Initiate DG Classification Report with certified lab | Product samples and specifications from manufacturer |
| T-25 | Initiate Performance Certificate (in parallel with classification) | Container specifications, CSC plate details |
| T-23 | Prepare MSDS (in parallel) | Battery chemistry specifications from manufacturer |
| T-20 | Receive DG Classification Report. Initiate DG Packaging Certificate (危包证) | DG Classification Report + Performance Certificate |
| T-10 | Receive DG Packaging Certificate. All documents ready. | CIQ inspection completed |
| T-7 | File Port Filing Approval with port authority | All 6 supporting documents |
| T-5 | File Maritime DG Declaration with MSA (Shanghai: T-7) | All 6 supporting documents + Port Filing Approval |
| T-3 | Container arrives at CFS. Packing inspection by DG-certified inspector. | Cargo ready, container available |
| T-2 | Container moves to DG terminal. SOC verification (Qingdao CFS). | Container Packing Certificate issued |
| T-0 | Vessel departure | All documents approved, MSA clearance received |
This timeline assumes no rejections or resubmissions. In practice, we build a 5-working-day buffer into the schedule to absorb unexpected delays, particularly around the DG Packaging Certificate and MSA filing stages.
11. Frequently asked questions
Can I reuse the DG Packaging Certificate for multiple shipments?
No. The 危包证 is single-use and tied to a specific container, cargo, and voyage. Each UN3536 shipment requires a new 危包证.
What is the cost of preparing all 7 documents?
Total documentation costs for a single UN3536 shipment typically range from RMB 8,000 to 15,000 (approximately USD 1,100 to 2,100), depending on the port, the lab used for classification, and whether expedited service is required. According to the Shanghai Shipping Exchange (SCFI), total logistics documentation costs for DG shipments from Chinese ports have increased approximately 15-20% since 2024 due to additional testing and inspection requirements. The DG Classification Report (RMB 3,000 to 5,000) and DG Packaging Certificate (RMB 2,000 to 4,000) are the two largest line items.
Do I need all 7 documents if I am shipping SOC (Shipper Owned Container)?
Yes. SOC status does not reduce the documentation requirement. The same 7 documents are required regardless of whether the container is carrier-owned or shipper-owned. In fact, SOC containers may require additional documentation: a container ownership certificate and, at some ports, a separate SOC container approval letter from the terminal operator.
How far in advance should I start preparing documents?
30 days before the planned vessel departure date. This gives sufficient time for the DG Classification Report (5 to 7 days), Performance Certificate (3 to 5 days), DG Packaging Certificate (7 to 10 days), and all port and MSA filings. Starting less than 20 days before departure creates a high risk of delay.
Need help with UN3536 documentation?
We manage the full documentation process for UN3536 shipments. Send us your cargo specifications and we will return a complete documentation timeline and quotation within 24 hours.
Sources and references
- IMDG Code Special Provision 389 (SP389): IMO International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, Amendment 42-24. IMO IMDG Code
- JT/T 1543-2025 《船舶载运锂电池安全技术要求》: 交通运输部, 2025年1月26日发布, 2025年5月1日实施. 交通运输部公告
- UN TDG Rev. 24 (2025): UN Model Regulations, 24th revised edition, splitting UN3536 into three codes. UNECE TDG
- Ningbo Port UN38.3 Mandatory Requirement: ONE (Ocean Network Express) advisory, October 2025. ONE Advisory, Seatrade Maritime
- UN38.3: UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, Sub-section 38.3. UNECE Manual of Tests
- PHMSA Interpretation 25-0015 (April 2025): Clarification on UN3536 placarding requirements. PHMSA 25-0015
- Container Statutory Inspection Technical Rules (2025版): 中国船级社, effective October 1, 2025. Referenced from CCS technical notices.
All operational data based on Great Hensen's shipping records: 1,000+ TEU of UN3536 cargo shipped since 2022. Last verified: July 2026.