The next edition of the ADR introduces amendments that operators should be aware of before planning their transport activities for 2027. Changes to the classification of certain batteries, new provisions relating to hydrogen and technical updates to equipment are among the developments that will affect various operators across the logistics chain.
The ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) sets out the requirements for transporting such goods safely. Its provisions cover, among other aspects, classification, packaging, the use of tanks, documentation, marking and labelling, and the training of personnel involved in transport operations.
The new edition will generally apply from 1 January 2027. However, the transitional arrangements allow operators to continue using ADR 2025 until 30 June 2027, except where different specific deadlines apply.
The official reference for consulting the amendments is the UNECE page on the transport of dangerous goods, which provides the documents relating to the ADR update.
ADR 2027: Implementation dates and transitional period
The amendments to the 2027 edition were notified to the Contracting Parties on 1 July 2026. UNECE identifies 1 January 2027 as the scheduled date of entry into force, in accordance with the procedure established under the Agreement.
For transport companies, the transitional period should not be seen as a reason to postpone all reviews. Some amendments may require advance changes to classification systems, transport documents or internal procedures.
Before accepting dangerous goods, operators should check which edition applies, whether any specific transitional provision is in place and which requirements are relevant to the particular operation.
New UN numbers for batteries installed in cargo transport units
One of the key changes concerns batteries installed in certain cargo transport units, such as containers equipped with energy storage systems.
The new edition distinguishes between these configurations according to battery technology:
- UN 3536: Lithium-ion batteries installed in a cargo transport unit.
- UN 3563: Lithium metal batteries installed in a cargo transport unit.
- UN 3564: Sodium-ion batteries installed in a cargo transport unit.
This distinction is important because the classification of the goods determines which provisions must be consulted when preparing the transport operation.
Companies working with these types of units should check the relevant entry in ADR Table A, the applicable special provisions and the marking requirements. For units covered by these entries, the requirements for orange-coloured plates set out in the Agreement must also be reviewed.
This situation should not be confused with the carriage of batteries as packaged goods or the transport of battery-powered vehicles, as each case may fall under a different entry.
Hybrid and damaged batteries: Reviewing classification and documentation
The development of energy storage technologies is creating new scenarios for the transport of dangerous goods. These include hybrid batteries incorporating both lithium-ion and sodium-ion cells.
ADR 2027 introduces provisions to clarify how certain cases should be classified. A UN number should not be assigned solely on the basis of a product’s commercial name: its composition, configuration and conditions of carriage must also be taken into account.
Particular attention must also be paid to damaged or defective batteries. Where packaging is used under specific packing instructions for these batteries, the consignor and carrier must check the documentation and information required by the relevant provision, including any applicable packaging conditions.
This review is particularly important for operations involving returns, repairs and recycling, where the condition of the battery may determine the transport procedure to be followed.
Hydrogen: New provisions for certain storage systems and pressure receptacles
The development of hydrogen technologies is also reflected in the ADR amendments.
The changes include provisions relating to liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) and certain composite pressure receptacles designed for compressed hydrogen.
These amendments apply to specific configurations and should not be interpreted as a general authorisation to transport any substance or use any receptacle regardless of its characteristics.
Companies handling gases should check the classification of the goods, the conditions of carriage and the relevant technical provisions. For tank operations, it is also necessary to verify that the equipment is authorised for the substance and intended service.
Tanks and equipment: Checking the applicable specifications
The ADR updates include technical amendments relating to tank equipment and other forms of containment.
For operators handling liquid dangerous goods, the review should start with the characteristics of the product and the equipment being used. Not all tanks can be used interchangeably for every substance: the applicable requirements concerning construction, compatibility, approval, inspection and use must be observed.
It is also advisable to review the tank’s technical documentation, the validity of the required inspections and the procedures for loading, unloading and cleaning.
Chemical compatibility is particularly important when changing from one product to another. The tank material, linings, seals, valves and any components that come into contact with the goods must be suitable for the intended operating conditions.
Training and written instructions: Reviewing working procedures
The ADR update also affects provisions relating to the training of personnel involved in transport operations and the written instructions that must be carried on board vehicles.
Companies should check the requirements applicable to each role and distinguish between general training, activity-specific training and driver training for the carriage of dangerous goods.
With regard to written instructions, it is important to check which version is required and the transitional deadline for replacing previous documents. Planning should cover both document updates and communication of the changes to staff.
Having an up-to-date document is not enough: everyone involved in the operation must understand their responsibilities and know where to find the information they need.
Exempted quantities: Checking the transport category and UN number
Another amendment to review concerns section 1.1.3.6.3, which governs certain exemptions relating to the quantities carried per transport unit.
According to the amendments published for ADR 2027, the limit applicable to certain goods in transport category 1 is being amended. It is therefore not appropriate to continue automatically applying the previous limits without checking the relevant entry.
The application of an exemption depends on the classification of the goods and the conditions established in the ADR. It should not be interpreted as a general exemption from all the obligations relating to the carriage of dangerous goods.
Before applying the regime for limited quantities per transport unit referred to in section 1.1.3.6, operators must check the UN number, transport category, applicable quantity and any other relevant conditions.
How to prepare for the new ADR edition
To manage the update more effectively, companies can organise their review in several stages:
- Identify the goods being transported. Compile their UN numbers, classifications and conditions of carriage.
- Review the amendments affecting each operation. Consult the relevant entries and special provisions without applying changes to goods that are not covered by them.
- Update documentation and procedures. Review working instructions, transport information and the IT systems in use.
- Check vehicles and equipment. Verify markings, technical documentation and the conditions governing the use of tanks and other equipment.
- Inform the personnel involved. Communicate any changes affecting dispatch, loading, driving and unloading activities.
Correct application of the ADR requires each transport operation to be assessed according to its specific characteristics. An early review makes it possible to identify which changes genuinely affect the business and plan their implementation in an organised manner.
Official source
For the amendments and official information on the 2027 edition, please visit UNECE – Dangerous Goods.
If you would like further information about dangerous goods transport or any of our services, please do not hesitate to contact us.