Labels – LQE500

Product description

LQ (Limited Quantity) labels identify packages containing dangerous goods that are permitted for transport in limited quantities. They indicate that the contents comply with regulations for simplified dangerous goods transport—such as exemptions from dangerous goods documentation or vehicle placarding requirements for certain modes of transport. These labels are designed specifically for shipping cartons; they facilitate identification and handling within the logistics process while ensuring compliance with international regulations.

• 500 LQ dangerous goods labels on a roll
• Label format: 100 mm x 100 mm

The LQ label is applied to the carton so that it is correctly oriented and legible when the shipping carton is in its normal upright position. This means the tip of the square label points upwards, giving it the appearance of a square standing on one corner.

LQ labels / LQ stickers (Limited Quantity) are markings used in the transport of dangerous goods to identify items permitted for transport in limited quantities. They represent a special provision under regulations such as ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road, Chapter 3.4), the IMDG Code (sea transport), and IATA-DGR (air transport), designed to make the transport of small quantities of dangerous goods simpler and more cost-effective.

An LQ label is square-shaped with a black border and often features the abbreviation "LQ" or a white area. For sea transport, the "Y" symbol may also be used to indicate compliance with specific air freight regulations.

Conditions for LQ transport:

• Quantity limits: The quantity per inner packaging and total package is strictly limited (e.g., 1 liter per bottle and a maximum of 30 kg per carton for certain substances).
• Dangerous goods class: Applies to many, but not all, dangerous goods classes (see below).
• Packaging regulations: Robust packaging that complies with the regulations is mandatory.

LQ labeling typically allows for exemptions from certain requirements—such as carrying dangerous goods documentation or displaying vehicle placards—depending on the mode of transport. It offers a safe, simplified solution for transporting small quantities of dangerous goods, such as in chemical laboratories or the logistics industry.

The Limited Quantity (LQ) regulation applies to most dangerous goods classes, albeit with specific restrictions. Here is an overview of the dangerous goods classes for which LQ is applicable:

Key information on dangerous goods classes that permit LQ:

• Class 2: Gases (only certain ones pressurized gas containers, such as aerosol cans).
• Class 3: Flammable liquids (e.g., isopropanol, paints, solvents).
• Class 4.1: Flammable solids (e.g., sulfur, matches).
• Class 4.2: Substances liable to spontaneous combustion (restricted; depends on the substance).
• Class 4.3: Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases (restricted).
• Class 5.1: Oxidizing substances (e.g., hydrogen peroxide).
• Class 6.1: Toxic substances (only with restrictions and in small quantities).
• Class 8: Corrosive substances (e.g., acids, bases).
• Class 9: Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles (e.g., lithium batteries).

Key information on dangerous goods classes to which LQ does NOT apply:

• Class 1: Explosive substances and articles.
• Class 6.2: Infectious substances (e.g., biological material).
• Class 7: Radioactive materials.

Further information is contained in Chapter 3.4 of ADR 2017. It covers the regulations for the transport of dangerous goods in limited quantities. The file is provided by the Swiss Federal Roads Office (FEDRO).