How to Ship Ethyl Alcohol Safely:

2024 International Compliance Guide

Introduction
Understanding *how to ship ethyl alcohol safely is critical for chemical logistics. As a Class 3 flammable liquid, *ethanol transport* requires strict IMDG compliance, especially for tropical destinations like the Philippines. This 2024 guide covers IMDG/UN regulations, Philippines import rules, and safe handling tips for this Class 3 flammable liquid. Whether you’re shipping ethanol for medical, industrial or food applications, proper dangerous goods transport protocols are essential.

1. Ethyl Alcohol Properties & Shipping Risks

Ethyl Alcohol (C₂H₅OH, CAS 64-17-5) is a:

  • Colorless, volatile liquid

  • Boiling point: 78.37°C

  • Flash point: 13°C (55°F)

  • Classification: Class 3 Flammable Liquid

Key hazards during transport:
✔️ High flammability risk
✔️ Evaporation concerns
✔️ Reactivity with oxidizers

[See our Hazardous Goods Classification guide for detailed chemical categorization.]

2. Key Uses of Ethyl Alcohol in Global Shipping

Medical & Sanitization

Primary ingredient in:

  • Hand sanitizers (70% concentration)

  • Disinfectants

Food & Beverage

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Gluten-free options available

Industrial Applications

✔️ Solvent for paints/varnishes
✔️ Fuel additive (ethanol gasoline)

Pro Tip: For cleaning applications, ethyl alcohol is preferred over isopropyl for food-grade surfaces.

3. How to Classify Ethyl Alcohol for International Transport

Regulatory Framework:

AgencyStandardRequirement
UN/DOTUN 1170Hazard Class 3
IMDGPacking Group IISpecial stowage
Philippines PICCSCustoms Memo 27-2021Import permits

<img src=”flammable-label.jpg” alt=”Ethyl Alcohol shipping label UN 1170 Class 3″ width=”300″>

4. Step-by-Step: How to Ship Ethyl Alcohol Compliantly

Packaging Requirements

  • UN-certified HDPE drums (30L-250L)

  • Steel containers for bulk shipments

  • Leak-proof seals with vapor retention

Documentation Checklist

  1. Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

  2. Dangerous Goods Declaration

  3. Philippines FDA permit (if applicable)

[Need IMDG Code Compliance assistance? Our experts can help.]

5. Philippines Import Rules for Ethanol Shipping

Key Requirements:

  • Pre-approval from FDA Philippines

  • PICCS accreditation

  • Special customs clearance for flammable liquids

Major Ports Handling DG:

  • Manila International Container Port

  • Cebu Base Port

Did you know? Temperature control is critical when shipping to tropical climates like the Philippines.

6. Procurement & Safe Handling Tips

Where to Buy:

  • Chemical manufacturers (e.g., Sinochem)

  • Local distributors in Manila/Cebu

Storage Guidelines:
☑️ Keep below 25°C
☑️ Ground all containers
☑️ Use explosion-proof equipment

Emergency Measures:

  • Spill kit requirements

  • Fire suppression systems

Conclusion

Mastering how to ship Ethyl Alcohol requires:

Precise UN 1170 classification

IMDG-compliant packaging

Complete Philippines documentation

For time-sensitive shipments, consider our [Dangerous Goods Logistics Services] with same-day alcohol delivery options in key Asian markets.

Additional Resources:

UN Dangerous Goods Manual

Philippines Customs Guidelines

[Packaging Requirements for Flammable Liquids]

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