TOUGH. STACKABLE. READY FOR THE LINE.
Certified Constructions for Regulated Transport
UN-rated pails are manufactured and tested to a hazardous-material packaging standard for regulated liquids and solids in transport. The rating lives in the whole package, not the pail alone, so every rated pail ships with its certified lid and closure instructions.
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UN-Certified Build
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Packing Group II/III
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Certified Lid Included
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Drop & Leak Tested
Overview
UN 1H2 plastic and 1A2 steel constructions covering Packing Group II and III, verified by drop, leak, and stack testing. The marking still has to be checked against your product's classification, packing group, and specific gravity.
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UN 1H2 plastic and 1A2 steel options tested to the standard.
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Ratings cover most regulated liquids and solids shipped in pails.
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The rating only holds with its matched lid and closure procedure.
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Designs verified against drop, leak, and stack test requirements.
Specifications
Nominal Capacity
5 U.S. gallons (18.9 Liters)
Material
HDPE (1H2) or Cold-Rolled Steel (1A2)
Wall Thickness
90 mil (2.3 mm) / 24 - 29 gauge
Dimensions
11.9 in Dia x 13.4 in H (302 x 340 mm)
Empty Weight
1.8 - 5.5 lbs (0.8 - 2.5 kg)
Head Style
Open Head or Tight Head
Lid & Gasket
Certified Lid Supplied with Closure Instructions
UN Certification
UN 1H2/Y and 1A2/Y (Packing Groups II & III)
Stacking
Three to four high when filled
Exterior Finish
Molded or Lithographed with UN Marking
Common Uses
Food & Ingredients
Acids & Caustics
Detergents & Cleaners
Paints & Coatings
Solvents
Powders & Dry Goods
Hazardous Materials
Waste & Recovery
Lubricants & Fuels
How to spec yours
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Identify UN number, packing group, and specific gravity before selecting a rating.
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1H2 plastic for corrosive chemistries, 1A2 steel for solvents and flammables.
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The certified lid is part of the rating; substituting a lid voids it.
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Follow the supplied torque and closure instructions or the package is not compliant.
Compare
Type
Best For
Key Benefit
Consideration
Steel Pails
Solvents, coatings, and UN-rated hazardous materials
Heavier than plastic
Maximum strength and durability
Food-Grade HDPE Pails
Food, beverage, and ingredient products requiring certified resin
Premium over standard resin
FDA-compliant virgin resin
HDPE Plastic Pails
Non-hazardous liquids, chemicals, and general industrial products
Not ideal for high heat
Chemical resistance
Natural HDPE Pails
Food, beverage, and pharma products needing fill-level visibility
Less UV resistance
Product visibility
Black HDPE Pails
Light-sensitive chemicals, lubricants, and fuels for outdoor storage
Heat can cause expansion
UV protection
UN-Rated Pails
Regulated hazardous liquids and solids certified for transport
Rating requires the certified lid
Certified for hazmat shipping
Tight-Head Plastic Pails
Liquids needing a sealed, spill-resistant package with spout dispensing
No full access for solids
Leak-resistant sealed top
Related Products
What does UN rated mean on a pail?
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A UN-rated pail has been manufactured and tested to a hazardous-material packaging standard, verified by drop, leak, and stack testing. The marking states the packing group and maximum specific gravity it covers.
What is the difference between 1H2 and 1A2?
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1H2 designates a plastic pail with a removable head; 1A2 designates a steel pail with a removable head. Plastic suits corrosive chemistries, steel suits solvents and flammables that need a groundable body.
Does a UN-rated pail need its certified lid?
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Yes. The rating applies to the complete package, so substituting a different lid voids it. Every rated pail ships with its certified lid and closure instructions.
What packing groups do UN pails cover?
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Packing Group II and III ratings are available, which covers most regulated liquids and solids shipped in pails. Your product's classification determines which rating applies.
How high can 5 gallon pails be stacked?
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Filled pails generally stack three to four high, though the limit depends on contents, wall thickness, lid style, and storage conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's stacking and weight instructions.
How do I read the UN marking on a rated pail?
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The stamped code lists the design type, the packing groups it covers, and the maximum specific gravity approved for the contents, along with the year and country of manufacture. Match that marking to your product's classification before shipping.
Our packaging specialists will help you match the ideal container to your product, storage, and compliance needs. We stock and ship nationwide.
