CCW Services Achieves ADR Class 1 Capability (Explosives Transport)

Fireworks are one of the explosive products that we are now ADR Class 1 licensed to transport

In logistics, growth isn’t always about doing more of the same. Sometimes it’s about doing the hard things properly — the jobs that require extra training, tighter processes, and a serious commitment to safety.

That’s why we’re proud to share a major milestone for CCW Services: we’re now in a position to accept ADR Class 1 loads (explosives).

This is not a capability most hauliers can offer. For customers moving sensitive, regulated goods, it can remove a real bottleneck in the supply chain, especially when you need a transport partner that’s local, responsive, and set up to do things by the book.

What is ADR (and what does Class 1 mean)?

ADR is the European agreement that governs the safe carriage of dangerous goods by road. In simple terms, it sets the rules for how hazardous materials must be packaged, labelled, documented, and transported — and what training the people involved must have.

Within ADR, dangerous goods are grouped into classes. ADR Class 1 refers specifically to the transportation of explosives.

These are substances or articles that can detonate or burn rapidly due to chemical reactions. Because the risks can be severe, Class 1 movements are highly regulated and require strict safety protocols.

Examples of ADR Class 1 goods

Class 1 can cover a wide range of items used across the industry. Common examples include:

  • Ammunition and pyrotechnics (including signal flares and specialist cartridges)

  • Fireworks (consumer-grade and professional display articles)

  • Blasting agents used in construction, quarrying, mining, and certain energy-related applications

If your business handles any of the above, you’ll know that finding the right transport partner isn’t just a “who’s available this week?” decision. 

It’s about competence, compliance, and consistency.

Why ADR Class 1 capability is a big deal (for you as well as us)

1) It’s rare — and that matters when you’re under pressure

Most general haulage operators cannot transport Class 1 goods. Even when they can handle other ADR classes, Class 1 is a step up in complexity.

That means when you need to move explosives-related cargo, your options can narrow fast, and your lead times can stretch.

By building Class 1 capability, CCW Services can support customers who need specialist transport without relying on a long chain of subcontractors.

2) It supports high-stakes industries

Class 1 movements often sit behind critical operations, such as:

  • Defence and security supply chains

  • Construction and civil engineering (controlled blasting and specialist site works)

  • Events and exhibitions (professional pyrotechnics and display logistics)

  • Marine and port-linked operations where regulated goods need onward movement

For businesses operating in and around Southampton, Portsmouth, and the South Coast, specialist capability close to major routes and docks can be a real advantage.

3) It’s part of a wider specialist logistics offer

At CCW Services, we’re building a reputation for taking on the jobs that require extra care — not just moving standard freight from A to B.

ADR Class 1 capability sits naturally alongside our broader logistics support, including specialist transport, warehousing, and 3PL services that help customers move goods into, out of, and across the UK.

What customers should expect from a specialist Class 1 carrier

If you’re new to ADR Class 1 movements, here’s what “good” typically looks like:

  • Clear communication on what you’re moving and how it must be declared

  • Correct documentation and compliance checks before collection

  • A safety-first approach to routing, timing, and handling

  • Professional standards that reduce delays, refusals, and last-minute issues

If you already ship Class 1 goods, you’ll know that the best transport partners are the ones who make the process feel controlled and predictable — even when the cargo isn’t.

Speak to CCW Services about ADR Class 1 transport

If your business needs to move ADR Class 1 goods (explosives), we’d be happy to discuss your requirements and whether we’re the right fit.

And if you handle other regulated materials, you can also explore our wider Hazardous Materials Transport Services.

About us

Conveniently located between the busy ports of Southampton and Portsmouth on the UK’s south coast, CCW Services offers comprehensive Third-Party Logistics services including haulage, warehousing, devanning, rework and pallet supply. If your business expects the very best in seamless, tailored logistics solutions, get in touch to find out more about partnering with us.

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