If you handle or ship dangerous goods by sea, the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code is your rulebook for safety and compliance. Published by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the Code is updated every two years to reflect new regulations, new substances, and best practices in maritime transport.
The latest version, the IMDG Code 2024 Edition (Amendment 42-24), is now available. It can be used voluntarily starting 1 January 2025 and becomes mandatory on 1 January 2026. If your business ships hazardous materials, now is the time to get ahead of the changes by upgrading to the new IMDG Code 2024.
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code is the internationally recognized regulatory framework established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the safe handling, packaging, stowage, and transport of dangerous goods and marine pollutants in maritime shipping. The IMDG Code is mandatory under the SOLAS Convention (Chapter VII) for all vessels carrying hazardous cargo in packaged form, making it essential for commercial vessel operators, fleet managers, and maritime safety officers worldwide.
The IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 introduces important revisions that impact classification, packaging, documentation, labeling, and stowage of dangerous goods at sea. Here are some of the most significant updates:
1. Transition Timeline
2. New UN Numbers and Substances
3. Revised Definitions and Provisions
4. Special Provisions (SPs)
5. Packaging & Tank Instructions
6. Documentation & Labeling Requirements
7. Stowage & Segregation
Upgrading to the IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 is more than a regulatory formality — it’s critical for:
Staying competitive in global trade by ensuring smooth, compliant operations.
The IMDG Code 2024 is essential for:
At American Nautical Services, we supply the official IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 (2024 Edition) in both print and digital formats. Buying directly from us ensures you receive the most current, authentic edition along with optional compliance resources.
Available Formats:
The IMDG Code 2024 Edition (Amendment 42-24) brings critical updates for the classification, packing, labeling, and documentation of dangerous goods. With the voluntary use period starting in 2025 and mandatory compliance from 2026, now is the right time to prepare your business.
Stay compliant, avoid costly errors, and safeguard your operations.
Stay compliant with the latest IMDG Code publications from American Nautical Services. As an ISO 9001 certified nautical solutions provider and official IMO publications distributor, ANS delivers the complete suite of International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code volumes, supplements, and amendments you need for safe, compliant transport of hazardous materials by sea.
The IMDG Code provides comprehensive guidance on:
Carrying the current, official IMDG Code publication is a legal requirement for vessels transporting dangerous goods. Operating with outdated editions means your vessel is out of compliance and at risk during port state inspections.
The IMDG Code categorizes hazardous materials into nine distinct classes based on their primary hazard characteristics:
Each class has specific packaging, labeling, and stowage requirements detailed throughout the IMDG Code volumes.
The complete regulatory text including:
Essential companion volume containing:
Browse our complete IMDG Code collection to ensure your vessels carry every required publication.
Navigating the complexities of dangerous goods regulations requires more than just access to the IMDG Code book—it demands a partner who understands the regulatory landscape and can support your compliance objectives.
What does IMDG stand for?
IMDG stands for International Maritime Dangerous Goods. The IMDG Code is the comprehensive regulatory framework for transporting hazardous materials by sea.
What is the IMDG Code used for?
The IMDG Code establishes international standards for safely transporting dangerous goods by sea. It covers classification, packaging, labeling, documentation, stowage, segregation, and emergency procedures for hazardous materials in maritime shipping.
Is carrying the IMDG Code mandatory?
Yes. Under SOLAS Chapter VII, vessels carrying dangerous goods in packaged form must carry the current edition of the IMDG Code and its Supplement. This is a mandatory carriage requirement subject to port state control inspection.
How often is the IMDG Code updated?
The IMO updates the IMDG Code on a two-year amendment cycle. The latest edition (Amendment 42-24) is in the transition period for 2025 and becomes mandatory January 1, 2026. It expires on December 31, 2027.
What's included in the IMDG Code Supplement?
The IMDG Supplement contains the Emergency Schedules (EmS) Guide, Medical First Aid Guide (MFAG), reporting procedures for incidents involving dangerous goods, cargo transport unit packing regulations, pesticide use regulations, and the INF Code for radioactive materials transport.
Can I use the previous edition of the IMDG Code?
No, not after the mandatory implementation date. Once a new amendment becomes mandatory (January 1, 2025 for Amendment 42-24), vessels must carry the latest edition. Using an outdated edition constitutes a compliance deficiency during inspections.
What are the penalties for IMDG Code non-compliance?
Non-compliance can result in vessel detention, port state control deficiencies, monetary fines, and in serious cases, criminal liability for the shipowner or operator. Beyond penalties, non-compliance increases the risk of dangerous goods incidents that could cause injury, environmental damage, or loss of cargo.
Does ANS offer digital versions of the IMDG Code?
Yes. In addition to printed volumes, ANS provides access to digital formats and online subscriptions that can be integrated with vessel management systems for easier reference and updating.
What are the 9 IMDG Code classes?
The IMDG Code categorizes dangerous goods into 9 classes: Class 1 (Explosives), Class 2 (Gases), Class 3 (Flammable Liquids), Class 4 (Flammable Solids), Class 5 (Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides), Class 6 (Toxic and Infectious Substances), Class 7 (Radioactive Material), Class 8 (Corrosives), and Class 9 (Miscellaneous Dangerous Substances and Articles).
How do I know which IMDG publications my vessel needs?
All vessels carrying dangerous goods require the main IMDG Code (two volumes) and the IMDG Supplement. Additional publications may be required based on your flag state, cargo types, and trading routes. Contact ANS for personalized carriage requirement guidance based on your specific operations.
Where can I get IMDG Code training?
ANS offers IMDG Code training resources, e-learning courses, and can recommend certified training providers. Proper training should cover dangerous goods classification, packaging selection, documentation preparation, stowage planning, and emergency response.
What's the difference between IMDG Code and DGR?
The IMDG Code governs maritime transport of dangerous goods, while the DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations) published by IATA governs air transport. Though both follow UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, they have mode-specific differences in packaging, labeling, and procedures.
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CFR Title 46: Parts 140-155 – Shipping (Code of Federal Regulations), Revised as of October 1, 2025
Mancomm 29 CFR Part 1926 OSHA Construction Standards & Regulations, January 2026
