ADR Groupage Transport: A Guide to Dangerous Goods Compatibility in Shared Loads.

ADR groupage transport involves the movement of dangerous goods from different shippers within the same vehicle. This transport method is particularly complex because it requires the simultaneous handling of multiple hazard classes, each with its own specific risk characteristics.
Careful planning and accurate assessment of goods compatibility are essential to ensure the safety of people, the environment, vehicles, and the transported goods.
In this article, we explore the main rules, the most critical ADR classes to manage, compatibility verification procedures, and the advantages of relying on an experienced carrier.
 

Why Goods Compatibility Is Crucial in ADR Groupage Transport

In ADR groupage transport, dangerous goods share the same space inside the vehicle. The proximity of incompatible substances can create serious risks, such as chemical reactions, fires, or toxic emissions.

Ensuring goods compatibility means preventing transport incidents, protecting personnel and the surrounding environment, safeguarding the goods themselves, reducing potential economic damage, and ensuring compliance with ADR regulations and legal obligations.

Load planning must therefore take into account the chemical properties of each substance and the potential effects of interactions between different materials.
 

The Most Critical ADR Classes to Manage in Mixed Loads

Some classes of dangerous goods require special attention when transported in groupage:

• Flammable liquids (Class 3): highly reactive and sensitive to heat sources or oxidizing substances.
• Compressed and liquefied gases (Class 2): require certified containers and separation from flammable or corrosive materials.
• Corrosive substances (Class 8): can damage other goods, vehicles, and surfaces if not properly isolated.
• Toxic and infectious substances (Classes 6.1 and 6.2): require secure packaging and separation from incompatible goods.
• Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides (Classes 5.1 and 5.2): highly reactive when in contact with flammable or reducing substances.

In-depth knowledge of the characteristics of each class is essential to ensure a safe and fully compliant mixed load.
 

ADR Rules on Separation and Compatibility of Substances

ADR regulations define strict rules for managing ADR groupage transport. Each substance must be positioned according to its hazard class, respecting minimum distances and using separation barriers where required.
Key aspects include:

• consulting ADR compatibility tables to identify substances that can or cannot be transported together;
• using certified packaging suitable for the specific hazard class;
• clear and visible labeling of each package to ensure rapid identification in case of emergency;
• compliance with loading and unloading procedures, including compatibility checks before each operation;
• personnel training in emergency management, chemical risks, and ADR procedures.
   

How Compatibility Is Verified Before Shipment

Before each ADR groupage shipment, the carrier must verify goods compatibility by:

• checking Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and ADR classifications of the materials;
• analyzing potential chemical reaction risks between different substances;
• planning the positioning of packages inside the vehicle to comply with safety distances and barriers;
• ensuring that drivers are properly trained to recognize and manage potential emergencies.
   

The Advantages of Choosing an Experienced ADR Carrier

Relying on a qualified partner for ADR groupage transport means ensuring safe and professional handling of dangerous goods. An experienced carrier like Corsini Logistica & Trasporti guarantees continuously trained personnel fully compliant with ADR regulations, approved and properly equipped vehicles for transporting multiple classes of dangerous goods, and strict control of substance compatibility before loading.

Each shipment is carefully planned to minimize risks and prevent incidents, with complete documentation management and full cargo traceability.

Contact us to learn more about our ADR groupage transport services.