Flammable and combustible materials may be stored only in general and private warehouses where a special fire and protection arrangement has been set up for them. The regulations draw a clear line on this.
This is an obligation, not a preference. Leaving such a load at a warehouse without the arrangement creates both an administrative sanction and an insurance problem.
Which goods fall into this class
Classification is made according to the chemical properties and hazard class of the goods. Paint, thinner, solvents, fuel derivatives, certain chemicals and pressurised containers are typical examples.
Confirm which class your cargo falls into from the manufacturer's safety data sheet (SDS) and with your customs broker; do not guess.
The arrangement required in the warehouse
- A fire suppression system and the right type of extinguisher
- A separate storage section and ventilation
- Measures against static electricity and sparks
- A fire safety report and the relevant permits
- Training for staff specific to this class of goods
What you should ask
Ask the warehouse operator for the fire safety report and the permission issued for this class of cargo. Verbal confirmation is not enough.
Also ask in writing whether the insurance policy covers this class of cargo — many policies exclude dangerous goods.
What happens at a warehouse without the arrangement
Besides the administrative sanction, the real risk is the insurance: in the event of damage the policy may not respond, on the ground of "storage contrary to the regulations".
So an operator who is flexible on this point is offering you risk, not a favour.