The transport of hazardous waste by road in Bulgaria and the EU is regulated by the ADR Agreement (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road). Unfamiliarity with the requirements can be costly — fines, detained cargo and suspended permits.
What is ADR and when does it apply?
ADR is an international agreement ratified by Bulgaria that regulates the transport of dangerous goods by road. It applies when the hazardous waste exceeds certain threshold quantities (so-called "limited quantities" or "excepted quantities").
When transporting hazardous waste in quantities above the thresholds, the carrier must have ADR-certified vehicles and drivers.
ADR Classes Applicable to Waste
| ADR class | Description |
|---|---|
| Class 6.1 | Toxic substances — e.g. waste organic solvents, chemicals |
| Class 6.2 | Infectious substances — medical and hospital waste |
| Class 8 | Corrosive substances — acids, bases, chemical waste |
| Class 9 | Miscellaneous dangerous substances — lithium batteries, asbestos, hazardous mixtures |
Mandatory Documents for ADR Transport
- ADR Transport Document — completed by the consignor; contains UN number, proper shipping name, class, packing group, quantity.
- Written Instructions (Transport Emergency Card) — provided by the carrier to the driver at every loading.
- Waste Transport (Consignment) Document under the WMA — mandatory for every waste shipment in Bulgaria, regardless of ADR.
- Training Certificate (ADR Certificate) — the driver must hold a valid ADR certificate for the relevant classes.
- Carrier's Permit — document issued by RIOSV certifying the right to transport waste.
Requirements for the Carrier
- WMA permit from RIOSV
- ADR-certified vehicles (technical inspections, marking, equipment)
- Drivers with a valid ADR certificate for the relevant classes
- Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA)
- Insurance for the transport of dangerous goods
Green Shield Logistics fulfils all of the above requirements. RIOSV permit No. 12-РД-2661-00. ADR-certified vehicles and drivers. Full documentation at every loading.
Requirements for the Consignor (Waste Generator)
The generator of hazardous waste is required to:
- Correctly classify the waste and determine the UN number
- Package and label the waste in accordance with ADR requirements
- Complete the ADR transport document before loading
- Transfer the waste only to a licensed carrier