The IMDG Code lays down basic principles: detailed recommendations for individual substances, materials and articles, and a number of recommendations for good operational practice, including advice on terminology, packing, labelling, stowage, segregation and handling, and emergency response action.

Every two years the IMDG Code 2-volume publication is updated and amended. The 40th Amendment (2020) of the IMDG Code will come into force on 1 January 2022 for two years and may be applied voluntarily from 1 January 2021.