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Placard vs Label — What's the Difference in Dangerous Goods?
Last updated: 6 Jul 2026Reviewed by Ms. Rubab Nizami, Lead AVSEC Faculty
In short
A hazard label is the smaller diamond fixed to an individual package. A placard is the larger version (usually 250mm+) displayed on a freight container, cargo unit or vehicle so the hazard is visible from a distance. Same symbol, different size and place.
Placard vs Label — side by side
| Placard | Label | |
|---|---|---|
| Goes on | The cargo unit or vehicle | The individual package |
| Size | Large (≥250mm) | Small (≥100mm) |
| Purpose | Visible from a distance | Identifies the package's contents |
Which should you use?
Label = on the box; placard = the big version on the container or vehicle. The hazard symbol is the same.
Quick answers
Is a placard the same as a label?
They show the same hazard, but a placard is the larger version for cargo units and vehicles.