What do the UN codes mean?

The UN rating indicates the performance level for which the packaging was tested.

Many of our products such as our drums and carboys meet UN specifications. Here is some information on how these codes work.

United Nations Symbol: A lower case "u" over a lower case "n" in a circle or upper case "UN" signifies that a container is UN performance packaging.

Packaging Code: the first number designates the type of packaging, the letter designates the material of construction, and the second number designates whether it is open top or closed top.

Performance Level: Identifies the performance standard of the package. X - For packages meeting Packing Group I tests - highest hazard; may also be used for P.G. II and P.G. III Y - For packages meeting Packing Group II tests - medium hazard; may also be used for P.G. III Z - For packages meeting Packing Group III tests - lowest hazard.

Specific Gravity: Maximum specific gravity that the container can hold. When the specific gravity designation is not marked, the maximum permitted specific gravity is 1.2.

Gross Mass: Maximum gross mass in kilograms.

Hydrostatic Pressure: Test pressure in kilopascals.

Solids: Solid or combination packing designation.

Year of Manufacture: Last two digits in the year of manufacture. Plastic Drums and Jerricans/Pail (1H and 3H) must also be marked with the month of manufacture.

State Authorizing Allocation Mark: Designation code for country where container is manufactured and/or marked or reconditioned for re-use.

Name of Manufacturer and Registration Number: Authorized symbol of packaging manufacturer or reconditioner, as assigned by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

Minimum Wall Thickness: Expressed in millimeters. Minimum for plastic re-usable drums is 2.2mm for a 120-220 liter container; minimum for steel re-usable drums is 1.0mm.