1.4G vs 1.3G Fireworks: What's the Difference?
Compare transport codes, ATF licensing and retail eligibility—and avoid confusing UN0336, 1.4G with permission to sell to consumers.
1.4G and 1.3G are transport hazard classifications, not interchangeable retail permissions. UN0336, 1.4G commonly covers consumer fireworks; UN0335, 1.3G commonly covers display fireworks. Completed consumer fireworks that meet the ATF exemption generally do not require an ATF explosives license for importation, distribution or storage. Display-fireworks importers need the applicable federal explosives license. In both cases, verify the exact device, transport documentation and destination rules before buying.
Comparison Table: Eight Dimensions
| Dimension | 1.4G / UN0336 | 1.3G / UN0335 |
|---|---|---|
| Transport description | Fireworks, Division 1.4, compatibility group G | Fireworks, Division 1.3, compatibility group G |
| Typical use | Consumer products; some products require separate professional-use review | Professional displays |
| ATF licensing | Completed consumer-fireworks exemption must actually apply | Applicable importer/dealer/manufacturer license or user permit, depending on activity |
| Buyer | Authorized retail/wholesale channel where permitted | Properly licensed or permitted professional operators |
| Transport | Valid product authorization, Class 1 packing, marks and accepted carrier | Valid product authorization and Class 1 transport controls; verify route acceptance |
| Storage | State/local fire, building and business requirements | ATF explosives storage rules plus state/local requirements |
| Typical products | Compliant consumer cakes, fountains and permitted aerial devices | Display shells and professional display devices |
| Import readiness | Consumer compliance, certification, entry and destination eligibility | Federal explosives licensing, storage and professional-market permissions |
ATF's fireworks page describes the completed-consumer exemption and the controls on display fireworks. It also distinguishes articles pyrotechnic. A marketing label such as “professional,” a large effect or a manufacturer's product category cannot settle the regulatory status.
The Overload Trap
A supplier cannot make an over-limit or improperly constructed device consumer-compliant by printing 1.4G on its carton. Actual construction and composition must match the supported product identity. If inspection or testing identifies a mismatch, stop distribution and obtain an assessment of both consumer legality and transport status.
Do not assume a CPSC failure automatically reclassifies an entire shipment as 1.3G. A labeling or performance failure can make a product unsaleable without changing its transport division. Conversely, a device outside the completed-consumer exemption may trigger explosives controls. Any classification change requires the proper authority and documentation, not a buyer's relabeling exercise.
Flash Powder Limits You Must Know
The important numbers concern composition intended to produce an audible effect, not the total powder in every fountain or cake. 16 CFR 1500.17(a)(8) prohibits covered firecrackers with more than 50 mg of audible-effect composition, with the rule's stated exceptions. Section 1500.17(a)(3) sets a 2-grain (130 mg) threshold for covered fireworks devices producing audible effects. The exact device and regulatory language matter.
These thresholds are not purchasing specifications or a full compliance test. A product under a report-charge threshold can still fail construction, labeling or other requirements. Ask for a competent laboratory's assessment of the actual SKU, including the applicable CPSC requirements; do not use a catalog's total composition figure to infer legality.
Which Class Should You Import?
For a retail distribution program, request products demonstrably eligible for consumer sale in your state and locality. For professional displays, verify licensing, receiving, transport and storage before choosing devices. If a supplier offers professional-use 1.4G articles or technical pyrotechnics, review those products separately; professional use does not always mean 1.3G.
Check the product's current transport authorization under 49 CFR 173.64 or 173.65, as applicable. UN0337 is 1.4S, not another 1.4G code. Do not interchange UN0336 and UN0337 on documents or infer that a product is a novelty solely from its UN number.
Continue with the US import compliance guide and MOQ and pricing guide. The sample Shangli supplier profile shows fields to request, but its capability claims need real supplier confirmation.
Disclaimer: Checked against linked official sources on October 7, 2026. This is educational information, not legal advice or approval of a device. Consult ATF, CPSC, PHMSA and your state/local authorities about the actual product and planned activity; rules can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 1.4G importer also sell 1.3G display fireworks?
Only after meeting the licensing and other requirements for that activity. A completed-consumer-fireworks exemption does not authorize importing or dealing in display fireworks.
What is UN0336 versus UN0337?
UN0336 is Fireworks, 1.4G; UN0337 is Fireworks, 1.4S. They are different transport classifications, and the approved device documentation determines which applies.
Do I need a license to store 1.4G consumer fireworks?
ATF generally exempts qualifying completed consumer fireworks, but state/local storage, fire-code, zoning and business requirements still apply. Ask the authority responsible for the actual warehouse.
Can Chinese factories produce both classes?
Some may have the relevant capability, but verify the individual factory license, products and documentation. A factory producing both does not give the importer permission to buy or sell both.
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