Notification of dangerous goods

Do you want to deliver, unload or store hazardous goods at the port? If so, you must report the position of these goods to the Harbour Master's Office at least 24 hours in advance. The handling of hazardous goods is subject to strict legislation. That concerns the supply, removal, loading, unloading, transhipment, interim storage and keeping those goods on board. It is important to know exactly where hazardous goods are in the port at all times.  

How does it work?

As a shipping agent or freight forwarder, you report hazardous goods to the Harbour Master's Office via an electronic IFTDGN message. They draw on this to compile a safety file.  

 

That IFTDGN message contains all the information about the hazardous cargo you are bringing to the terminal. You send that notification at least 24 hours before the arrival of the goods.  

  • The shipping agent sends the message on import or remain on board  
  • The freight forwarder sends the message when the goods are exported 

 

For the exact departure of hazardous goods from the terminal, the terminal operator uses specific terminal messages, such as ‘CODECO’ and ‘COARRI’. 

 

Firms unable to send their returns electronically can use 'digitisers' such as Port+. They can enter and send returns on assignment. Learn more at www.portplus.be 

What are the benefits?

  • Easy integration: you can upload or further supplement a message from your own system, before sending the final declaration.    
  • Easily comply with EU directives: you provide your cargo information to Safe Sea Net, as required by EU Directive 2002/59.  
  • Consistent communication: A unified structure for all messages to port authorities related to the handling of hazardous goods.  
  • International recognition: recognised by IMO as an alternative to the FAL Form 7 

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