Search

Hazmat Fun: Pokémon Packing Groups

Posted on 7/14/2016 by Roger Marks

The new Pokémon Go app is taking the US by storm, outpacing major social media and dating sites for number of active users in just a few days. Pokémon come in all shapes and sizes, and each boasts its own unique powers. Most become more hazardous as they “evolve.”

Hazmat shippers may recognize a parallel to the way the 49 CFR Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) divide hazard classes into Packing Groups (PG). In case you find yourself shipping one of these imaginary “pocket monsters” to a friend or client, this quick guide will help you decide just how strong a package you would (hypothetically) need. Because we're dealing with imaginary creatures here, we are disregarding any reguatlions that govern the shipment of live animals to focus solely on hazmat rules.  
 
For a straightforward look at  hazmat packing groups as they relate to packaging, see 49 CFR 178.503- Marking of Packagings.

All names and images of Pokémon herein are the property of the Pokémon Company and Nintendo.

Charmander Class 3 pokemon
Class 3, PG III – Charmander


This small, beloved fire Pokémon uses fire attacks with a limited range and effectiveness. Z-rated UN packaging will serve you just fine for Charmander. That said, the 49 CFR rules allow for PG III materials to be shipped in stronger rated packagings, too (X or Y).
[49 CFR 178.503(a)(3)(iii)]




Charmeleon Class 3 Pokemon

Class 3, PG II – Charmeleon

A bit more dangerous than the Charmander, this Packing Group II Pokémon can do some real damage—in battle and in transport. As a Class 3, Packing Group II, Charmeleon will need to be transported in a Y-rated or X-rated UN package. [49 CFR 178.503(a)(3)(ii)]




Charizard Class 3 PokemonClass 3, PG I – Charizard


The strongest Pokémon of its genus, Charizard is not to be taken lightly! X-rated UN packaging only for this flaming, flying, Packing Group I beast. [49 CFR 178.503(a)(3)(i)]




Whether you’re out hunting for Pokémon or you’re just waiting for the craze to end, it’s crucial to remember that –whatever hazmat you ship—the packaging you select must be strong enough to contain your material and keep it protected against the rigors of transport.

Hazmat Workshops in Philadelphia, Williamsburg, Charlotte, Orlando, Atlanta, Nashville and more!


Don’t miss the 49 CFR workshop trusted by hazmat shippers nationwide when it comes through the southeast US this summer. Learn the latest rules—including recently inflated civil penalties (now up to $77,114 per day, per violation!), changes for hazmat shipping papers, critical updates for Special Permit users, and much more. Learn more and see the full schedule here.

Tags: hazmat, shipping

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

The instructor was energetic and made learning fun compared to dry instructors from other training providers.

Andy D’Amato

International Trade Compliance Manager

Lion provided an excellent introduction to environmental regulations, making the transition to a new career as an EHS specialist less daunting of a task. Drinking from a fire hose when the flow of water is lessened, is much more enjoyable!

Stephanie Weathers

SHE Specialist

I will never go anywhere, but to Lion Technology.

Dawn Swofford

EHS Technician

Lion's training was by far the best online RCRA training I've ever taken. It was challenging and the layout was great!

Paul Harbison

Hazardous Waste Professional

The instructor was very very informative, helpful, understandable and pleasant. This course answered many questions I had, being new to this industry.

Frances Mona

Shipping Manager

This is a very informative training compared to others. It covers everything I expect to learn and even a lot of new things.

Quatama Jackson

Waste Management Professional

I attended training from another provider and learned absolutely nothing. Lion is much better. Hands down.

Nicole Eby

Environmental Specialist

The instructor made the class enjoyable. He presented in a very knowledgeable, personable manner. Best class I've ever attended. Will take one again.

John Nekoloff

Environmental Compliance Manager

The course was very well structured and covered the material in a clear, concise manner.

Ian Martinez

Hazmat Shipping Professional

If I need thorough training or updating, I always use Lion. Lion is always the best in both instruction and materials.

Bryce Parker

EHS Manager

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Hazardous materials shipment rejections bear a big cost. Use this guide to end operational and logistical disruptions that severely impact your bottom line.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.