ADR Transportation

Some waste can't just go on any vehicle. Batteries, airbags, pyrotechnics, flammables and other dangerous goods have to be classified, packaged, labelled and moved under ADR regulations by drivers trained to handle them. At Vantage, we run our own ADR fleet, so we collect and transport hazardous waste ourselves rather than handing it to a third party and hoping for the best.

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ADR Transportation

Hazardous goods transport, handled in house

ADR is the European agreement governing the carriage of dangerous goods by road, and it covers far more waste than most businesses expect. Lithium batteries, damaged and defective cells, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, aerosols, flammable liquids and corrosives all fall within scope.

Our fleet ranges from vans to HGVs and is operated by ADR trained drivers, which means we can size a collection around what you actually have. We support manufacturers, dealerships, waste operators, retailers, logistics providers and facilities teams across the UK.

Our Process

How it works

Tell us what you need moving and we'll classify the waste, confirm the correct UN numbers and packing group, and advise on packaging, labelling and segregation before collection.

We then supply suitable containers, including UN-approved packaging where required, and collect using our own ADR fleet. Waste is delivered to authorised treatment or recycling facilities, with materials recovered wherever possible.

Consignment notes and full traceability are provided as standard, so you have the records to support your duty of care.

Compliance

Compliance you can trust

Because the fleet is ours. We're not booking a haulier and adding a margin, which means faster response times, more flexibility on vehicle size and a single point of accountability from collection through to treatment.

We've spent more than 20 years moving difficult waste streams for leading manufacturers and waste operators, including damaged lithium batteries, EV packs, airbags and pyrotechnic components. Most enquiries receive a quote within hours and collection can often be arranged for the next day.

Why Choose Vantage?

What We Handle

Related Services

Battery Recycling

Automotive Parts Recycling

Secure Waste Destruction

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ADR transport?

ADR is the international agreement covering the carriage of dangerous goods by road. It sets out how goods must be classified, packaged, labelled, documented and carried, and requires vehicles and drivers to meet specific standards.

What types of waste need ADR transport?

Anything classified as dangerous goods, which includes lithium and lithium-ion batteries, damaged and defective cells, EV battery packs, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, pyrotechnics, aerosols, flammable liquids and corrosive substances.

What is an Approved Battery Treatment Operator (ABTO)?

An Approved Battery Treatment Operator (ABTO) is a UK-authorised facility that safely treats and recycles waste batteries in line with environmental regulations. Sending waste batteries to an ABTO ensures legal compliance, safe recycling and environmental protection. UK regulations require producers and businesses to route used portable, industrial and automotive batteries through certified operators, helping maximise material recovery while minimising environmental impact.

Why are lithium batteries classed as class 9 dangerous goods?

Lithium batteries are classified as class 9 miscellaneous dangerous goods because they can generate heat, catch fire or short circuit if damaged or incorrectly packed. Damaged and defective cells carry additional packaging and transport requirements.

Do you provide UN-approved packaging?

Yes. We supply UN-approved containers and packaging where required, including specialist containers for critically damaged EV batteries, along with advice on labelling and segregation before collection.

Can you transport damaged or defective lithium batteries?

Yes. Damaged, defective or recalled lithium-ion batteries require specialist handling and transportation procedures. Our team can advise on the safest collection and disposal method based on the battery's condition and regulatory requirements.

Do you offer nationwide waste collection services?

Yes, we operate our own fleet collecting from over 2,500 customer collection points throughout the UK. Speak to us about your requirements for further information tailored to your business.

What containers do you provide for waste collections?

We provide a wide range of containers, including wheelie bins, drums, IBCs, stillages, pallet boxes, battery storage units, specialist airbag containers and UN-approved containers for critically damaged EV batteries. We can also provide vermiculite for safe battery storage. Our team will recommend the most suitable option based on your waste stream, storage requirements, operational needs and collection schedule.

Why Vantage

Let's Talk About Your Waste Management Requirements

Tell us about your waste streams, collection needs or compliance challenges and our team will recommend the right solution for your business.

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Need ADR transport services?

Whether you've got a one-off consignment or an ongoing movement to arrange, we'll help you get it classified, packaged and moved correctly. Get in touch and we'll take it from here.

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