What does the term "dangerous cargo" typically refer to?

The term "dangerous cargo" typically refers to materials that could pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment during transportation. Flammable materials are a primary category of dangerous goods because they have the potential to ignite and cause fires or explosions, representing a significant risk during shipping. This designation includes items like gasoline, propane, and other substances that can catch fire easily.

Non-perishable goods, perishable goods, and standard consumer products do not generally fall under the definition of "dangerous cargo," as they do not have the same level of risk associated with their transportation. Non-perishable goods are stable and do not pose a threat, perishable goods can spoil but are not inherently dangerous, and standard consumer products may include a wide range of items that are safe for transport without special handling or precautions. Therefore, flammable materials accurately reflect what is classified as dangerous cargo, aligning with industry regulations and safety standards.