（Question on interpretation of OVERPACK.）
Q.
Kindly clarify whether our interpretation of the term “OVERPACK” is correct.
An Overpack is a outer packaging (such as a plywood box) which is used as a replacement for a UN specification packaging. It satisfies the packaging requirements of Section 5 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. By indicating the word “OVERPACK” it can be transported as a UN specification packaging. (31 May 22)
A.
An Overpack does not replace a UN specification packaging. When a shipper wants to consolidate multiple UN specification packagings into one single package for efficiency or for protection, he uses an OVERPACK. Please refer to Appendix “A” - GLOSSARY of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulation where the definition of OVERPACK is shown.
When the marking, labels and marks of the individual UN specification packagings cannot be seen, as stated in 7.1.7.1 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulation, the shipper is obligated to indicate the word “OVERPACK” on the surface of the overpack, and in addition, reproduce all such markings, labels and marks on the surface of the overpack.
The word “OVERPACK” does not qualify the Overpack to be treated as a UN specification packaging. It remains to be a strong outer packaging capable to safely hold the multiple UN specification packagings it contains.
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