UN IIP Certificate

Comprehensive Guide to IIP UN Mark Certification: Procedures, Fee Structure, and Documentation Requirements

The IIP UN Mark Certificate is essential for manufacturers of packaging meant for the transport of hazardous and dangerous goods from India via sea, air, or road, adhering to United Nations regulations. The Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP), functioning under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, is the designated authority for evaluating and certifying such packaging.

Purpose of the UN Mark Certificate

• Ensures packaging used for hazardous materials complies with international safety norms.

• Required for legal and safe export of dangerous goods from India.

• Certification is mandatory for packages, not for exporters, and is valid for a maximum of 18 months—subject to compliance with all terms and conditions.

Who Must Apply

• Only packaging manufacturers for hazardous goods are eligible.

• Exporters must use packaging with a valid UN certification, but only manufacturers can apply for and obtain the certificate.

• Manufacturers must submit separate applications for certification related to sea and air transport.

What is the Purpose and Requirement of a UN Mark IIP Certificate?

• The UN Mark IIP Certificate is issued by the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) for packaging that contains hazardous or dangerous goods meant for transportation by sea, air, or road.

• The certificate verifies that the packaging meets international safety standards set by the United Nations for the secure transport of hazardous materials.

• Packaging manufacturers in India who produce packaging for dangerous goods to be shipped internationally must obtain this certification.

• The certification process involves testing packaging samples against UN standards, and only upon passing these tests is the UN Mark granted, which must be displayed on the certified packaging.

                       Documents Required

• GST Registration document

• Import-Export License (IEC)

• Company’s Permanent Account Number (PAN)

• Specify type of outer packaging used

• Dimensions and clear images of outer packaging

• Net weight and total gross weight of the product

• Mode of transport (Air or Sea)

• Manufacturer’s company details including GST, IEC, phone number, and email address

• Packaging manufacturer’s details including GST, MSME registration, ISO certification, email, and phone number

• Photos showing the product along with its packaging

• Certificate of Incorporation, if applicable

• Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA) or Partnership deed, if relevant

• Identity proof of authorized signatories (multiple allowed)

• Valid email address and phone number for the company and authorized person

• ISO certification (optional)

• Copy of cancelled cheque for payment verification

• Hazard classification according to Packaging Groups I, II, or III

• Name of the exporter

• Quantity of samples submitted for testing

                      Steps to Obtain UN (IIP) Certification

• Online Application
  Manufacturers must complete an online application on the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) portal. The application should include detailed information about the company, packaging type, hazardous products, and shipment mode. Along with the application, all necessary documents like GST certificate, IEC, technical specifications, and MSDS must be uploaded. Upon successfully submitting the application, a booking number is generated for reference.

• Payment Process
  Payment must be made online during application submission. Applicants need to provide payment details such as the mode of payment, cheque number, or UTR number. This information is essential for verifying the application fee and initiating the testing process.

• Sample Submission and Testing
  Applicants should send sample packaging materials to the designated IIP laboratories in Mumbai or Chennai. Samples can be dispatched via courier, transport services, or company personnel. Testing includes various parameters like drop test, stack load test, vibration test, hydraulic pressure test, etc., based on UN standards. Samples are retained for 30 days post-testing for any further inspections or audits.

• Verification and Acknowledgment
  Upon receiving the samples, IIP verifies the booking number, payment confirmation, and physical condition of samples. If any discrepancies or insufficient details arise, the applicant is notified and requested to rectify or resubmit samples. Once accepted, an acknowledgment is sent with confirmation of sample receipt.

• Laboratory Testing and Results
  The samples undergo rigorous testing as per international guidelines. The test results are reviewed by laboratory authorities for compliance and completeness. Authorization and authentication follow satisfactory results.

                           Packaging Materials

• 1A1 – Metal Drums & Barrels (Non-Removable Head)

• 1A2 – Metal Drums & Barrels (Removable Head)

• 1H1 – Plastic Drums & Barrels (Non-Removable Head)

• 1H2 – Plastic Drums & Barrels (Removable Head)

• 1G – Fiberboard Drums (Removable Head)

• 3H1 – Plastic Jerricans

• 4C1 – Wooden Boxes

• 4D – Plywood Boxes

• 5H3 – Woven Sack Bags

• 5M2 – Paper Bags (Multiwall)

• 6HA1 – Composite Drums & Barrels (Plastic and Steel, Non-Removable Head)

• 13H3 – Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBC, Woven Jumbo Bags)

• 31HA1 – Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC Plastic Tanks with Steel Cage and Wooden or Steel Pallet

                             Advantages of UN Certificates for Packaging

• Facilitates smoother and wider international acceptance of industrial packaging.

• Allows customization of packaging specifically designed for hazardous goods, meeting industry standards.

• Simplifies air and sea transport of dangerous goods through recognized global compliance.

• Enhances the quality control and standardization of packaging used in industrial shipments.

• Mandatory requirement for UN member countries, ensuring packages are secure and protected to withstand harsh transit conditions.

• Provides assurance that imported hazardous products are safely packed to prevent accidents or damage during shipping.

• Helps manufacturers demonstrate commitment to safety and environmental protection, improving market reputation.

• Reduces regulatory hurdles and legal risks associated with shipping dangerous goods internationally.

Fees Structure

IIP Certificate Validity

The validity of the UN Mark Certificate issued by the Indian Institute of Packaging depends primarily on whether the packaging manufacturer holds an ISO certification:

• For ISO 9001 certified manufacturers, the certificate validity is up to 18 months. In some cases, applicants can opt for longer validity periods, such as 12, 24, 36, or 48 months, provided all compliance conditions and intermediate checks are met.

• For non-ISO certified manufacturers, the certificate is valid for 9 months only. Renewal is required after this period with fresh sample submissions and payment of applicable fees.