The World Shipping Council warns of stricter regulations in response to recent fires caused by mishandled charcoal shipments. Carriers are expected to implement new rules this year, ahead of mandatory International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations in 2026. These regulations will require all charcoal shipments to be declared as dangerous goods under the IMDG Code, with additional requirements for treatment, packing, and stowage.
The new regulations are a result of negotiations led by the World Shipping Council, in collaboration with IGP&I and TT Club. To help shippers navigate the changes, a quick reference guide has been created to ensure they are well-informed about the updated requirements. It is crucial for shippers to stay informed and comply with the new regulations to prevent future incidents of fires caused by improperly handled charcoal shipments.
Shippers should be prepared for tighter regulations regarding the handling of charcoal shipments. The new rules will introduce stricter requirements for declaring charcoal as dangerous goods under the IMDG Code, as well as new treatment, packing, and stowage guidelines. The World Shipping Council has played a key role in negotiating these regulations and has provided a quick reference guide in collaboration with IGP&I and TT Club to help shippers understand and comply with the changes.
