Dangerous Goods and Special Transport
Core concepts
Dangerous goods transport is governed by the ADR agreement, implemented in Belgium. Know the structure of ADR: the classes of dangerous goods, the UN numbers, the packing groups, and the requirements for packaging, labelling, and placarding. Understand the documents required: the transport document, the instructions in writing, and the driver's ADR certificate. Know the rules on loading, segregation, and the equipment of the vehicle.
Special transport
Understand exceptional transport (oversize or overweight), the authorisation regime, and the escort requirements. Know the rules on the transport of perishable goods (ATP agreement) and the temperature-controlled chain.
Traps
Questions often test the difference between a packing group and a class, or the placarding requirements when the load is below the exemption threshold. Another trap is the ADR certificate: it is required for the driver and must be renewed. Watch for questions on segregation where two incompatible goods cannot be loaded together.
Worked rule of thumb
Before loading, check the UN number, class, packing group and the applicable exemption. If the quantity exceeds the threshold, full ADR requirements apply: orange plates, placards, transport document and instructions in writing. If below, the partial exemption may apply.
International Transport and Customs
Core concepts
International transport involves customs formalities and trade rules. Know the role of customs authorities, the customs declaration, and the customs procedures: release for free circulation, export, transit, and special procedures. Understand the TIR and ATA carnets, the union transit system, and the concept of customs debt. Know the rules on origin, value, and tariff classification.
Trade and documentation
Understand the role of the EORI number, the export and import declarations, and the documents required: invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and transport document. Know the rules on VAT for international transport and the place of supply. Understand the rules on sanctions and export controls.
Traps
Questions often confuse the TIR carnet with the ATA carnet, or the transit procedure with the export procedure. Another trap is the customs value: it is not always the invoice price, and adjustments may be required. Watch for questions on the origin of goods, which is not the same as the place of dispatch.
Worked rule of thumb
When a question asks which document covers a temporary export of goods for an exhibition, the answer is the ATA carnet. For the transport of goods under customs seal across borders, the TIR carnet applies. Always match the procedure to the purpose.