UN Number

Definition:

Die UN number is a four-digit code for the unique identification of dangerous substances and objects in accordance with the United Nations recommendations for the transport of dangerous goods (UN Model Regulations).
It is used worldwide in the dangerous goods regulations of all modes of transport (ADR/RID, ADN, IMDG, ICAO/IATA) and is central for identification, documentation and safety measures when transporting dangerous goods.

The UN number is used to clearly identify risks and to ensure that transport, storage and emergency measures are consistently complied with internationally.

examples:

• UN 1203 — Gasoline
• UN 1090 — Acetone
• UN 3082 — Environmentally hazardous liquid, n.a.s.
• UN 1017 — Chlorine

Risk labels & packaging groups
UN numbers are linked to hazard labels (hazard classes) and packaging groups (I—III), which define the risk potential.

Distinction from NA numbers
Optional Note: In North America, there are also NA numbers if there is no UN assignment.

_{Sources/further links:
UN Model Regulations (Orange Book): UN Model Regulations Rev. 24 (2025) | UNECE}

_{ADR (street) — UN numbers table: ADR 2025 - Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road | UNECE}

_{IATA DGR (Air Freight) — UN Identification: https://www.iata.org}

Challenges when dealing with UN numbers:

Missing or misinterpreted UN numbers
Errors in UN marking, documents or labels lead to safety risks, transport delays, fines or rejections — particularly with “n.a.g.” substances (not otherwise specified).
_{Sources/further links:
UNECE — Compliance & Safety Notices: https://unece.org}

Information gaps between document & driver
Drivers often only receive UN numbers shortly before arrival or have only limited access to hazardous substances and safety information, which makes emergencies and loading/unloading processes difficult.
_{Sources/further links:
ECTA/CEFIC — Safe Handling Guidelines: Guidelines | ECTA - European Chemical Transport Association}

Loady's solution:

Transparent, location-based dangerous goods information
Loady ensures that relevant dangerous goods data — including UN number, hazard class, necessary PPE, document requirements and unloading equipment — is available in a clear, structured and multilingual manner for every charging point.

Operational visibility for drivers & service providers
Drivers receive comprehensible, digital instructions on how to get there, check-in, hazardous substance protection measures and emergency instructions in advance — instead of just static transport documents.