Exporting LPG cylinders: standards, documents and packaging to prepare

Many gas companies abroad look for manufacturers in Vietnam to order cylinders under their own brand. Exporting LPG cylinders differs from selling domestically in that the cylinders must meet the standards and regulations of the importing country, come with a complete set of documents and be packed suitably for sea freight. This article lists what the buyer and manufacturer need to agree on before a batch goes into production.

1. Identify the destination market’s standards

Each market applies its own standards and certification scheme for transportable pressure vessels, for example:

• International standards such as ISO 22991 for welded steel LPG cylinders.
• Europe: EN 1442 together with conformity assessment under the regulations on transportable pressure equipment.
• North America: the specific regulations of the transport authorities.
• Many other countries have national standards and require certification or inspection by a designated body.

The buyer should send their country’s specific requirements in writing; the manufacturer confirms it can meet them before quoting. VietnhatGas cylinders are manufactured to TCVN 6292:1997 with reference to ISO 22991; other requirements are discussed project by project.

2. Agree on the technical specifications

• Capacity, dimensions and steel thickness according to the standard and market practice.
• Valve type suited to the equipment used in the importing country — see POL vs QCC valve: what is the difference.
• Handle, foot ring and valve guard to the agreed design.
• Paint colour and logo to the colour code and design files — see LPG cylinder powder coating.

3. Labelling and stamped markings on the cylinder

The stamped and printed markings on the cylinder (manufacturer, capacity, tare weight, test pressure, serial number, date of manufacture, standard designation, safety warnings) must follow the destination market’s requirements, in the required language and position. The labelling drawing should be approved before the stamping die is made.

4. Testing and accompanying documents

• Pressure test and leak test reports for every cylinder; sample test results for each batch — see LPG cylinder pressure testing.
• Steel material certificates and valve certification.
• Certification from an inspection body if the destination market requires it.
• A list of serial numbers for each batch — see LPG cylinder inspection records.

5. Export documents

The document set usually includes the contract, commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading and a certificate of origin (C/O) if the buyer needs it to benefit from preferential tariffs. Steel containers for liquefied gas are generally classified under HS heading 7311; the exact code should be confirmed with your customs declarant.

6. Packaging and shipping

• Cylinders empty, clean, with valves closed and protective caps fitted.
• Stacked on pallets or steel frames, with cushioning so they are not dented or scratched during the sea voyage.
• Work out the quantity per container based on capacity and stacking method to optimise costs.
• Agree on the delivery terms (Incoterms) such as FOB or CIF and on responsibility for insurance.

Frequently asked questions

Written by the VietnhatGas technical and sales team — a batch manufacturer of LPG cylinders. This content is for reference; regulations and standards may change, so please check the current texts.