Shipping Dangerous Goods & Hazardous Material

Dangerous goods shipping comes with an inherent level of risk. As the sender, you're responsible for following the applicable regulations for packing and labeling — particularly when it comes to international shipments. Complying with the latest rules and best practices helps protect the people who handle your items and the vessels that carry them. It can also help insulate you from the penalties and legal consequences that result from noncompliance.

Shipping dangerous goods and hazardous materials domestically and internationally is a complex process, as different materials are subject to varying regulations. It's important to follow the correct classification and shipping rules for the following:

• Material or product
• Transportation method (air, sea or land)
• Laws of the origin and destination country
• Governing regulatory body
• Individual shipping companies, where applicable

At Atlas International, we have more than 60 years of experience in efficient, compliant international shipping. Our expert team can support you through the process, ensuring your dangerous goods are handled and transported safely.

What Are Dangerous Goods?

A dangerous or hazardous good is any product, substance or material that creates a health or safety risk for the public and people handling the item. A good may also be hazardous if it has the potential to damage property.

Dangerous goods aren't limited to tightly controlled chemicals and nuclear waste — everyday items may also be considered hazardous. One example is acetone-based nail polish remover, which can be volatile and flammable. Lithium batteries, alcohol and flammable liquids, such as alcohol, may also be subject to hazmat regulations.

Different governing bodies, such as the US Department of Transportation, the European Union and the United Nations, set classifications and transportation rules for dangerous or hazardous goods. For example, US regulations follow the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, and the EU uses Directive 2008/68/EC.

While there may be small differences in classifications between countries and regions, a few common categories of dangerous and hazardous goods include:

• Flammable materials: These materials pose a risk for fire when exposed to heat, friction, oxygen, water or other uncontrolled conditions. This broad category includes classes and divisions for gases, liquids and solids. Spontaneously combustible materials are particularly risky; this category includes materials that ignite unexpectedly, including pyrophoric substances, such as sodium hydride or lithium amide. Another important classification is "dangerous when wet" materials, which react with water to create dangerous gases and create a risk of fire or explosion.
• Explosives: This type of material or product has the potential to explode, either accidentally or by design. It might include intentional explosives, such as TNT or ammunition, or substances such as dipicryl sulfide.
• Oxidizers: An oxidizer is a gas, liquid or solid that can produce oxygen, which can cause other materials to explode or combust. They include nitric acid and halogens.
• Organic peroxide: This is a special type of oxidizer that can be unstable, such as dibenzoyl peroxide and peroxyacetic acid. They can explode when exposed to pressure, strong impacts, high temperatures or friction. 
• Poisonous and toxic materials: Toxic substances present a high risk to human health when inhaled, ingested or in contact with skin. Examples include tear gas, bromobenzyl cyanide and formaldehyde.
• Infectious substances: These materials contain pathogens that can be dangerous to human and animal health. Infectious materials may be found in medical waste, vaccines, cultures and medical or research specimens.
• Radioactive materials: Radioactive substances give off radiation that can be dangerous to people. This category includes uranium, radioactive waste and cobalt.
• Corrosives: A corrosive can cause severe damage to the skin or other materials, such as steel. Sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid are common corrosives. Corrosives may be shipped in their pure form or as part of other products, such as fertilizers and lead-acid batteries.

The shipping process exposes packages to varying temperature, movement, air and moisture levels. Regulations help ensure dangerous goods are packed, handled and transported in a way that reduces risk to people, property and the environment.

Regulations for Shipping Dangerous Goods

The regulations you need to follow when shipping dangerous and hazardous goods depend on whether the shipment is domestic or international. Regulations may also vary based on the mode of transportation.

International Air Shipments: International Air Transport Association

The IATA is a trade organization that regulates international air transportation. It creates standards for air travel, including dangerous air cargo. The IATA's Dangerous Goods Regulations outline the rules for safely packing and shipping hazardous materials on planes. These regulations are based on the International Civil Aviation Organization rules and the UN's classifications.

The IATA DGR covers nine goods classes, including the categories outlined above, plus miscellaneous dangerous items and substances. It provides detailed procedures for declaring dangerous goods and preparing, packaging, labeling, marking, loading, storing, securing and handling the shipment. For many items, the DRG specifies a maximum quantity per package.

International Shipments by Water: International Maritime Organization 

The IMO is a UN organization that regulates dangerous goods shipped internationally by sea. These shipments are governed by the IMO's International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. The IMO's regulations are informed by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.

The IMDG Code — also known as the International Dangerous Goods Code — uses the same product classes as the IATA DGR. Each has rules for loading, stowing and securing shipping containers to prevent marine pollution and protect personnel and ships. They also help shippers pack cargo to prevent overloading and ensure that items are secured within each cargo transport unit. Depending on the item, the IMDG Code may also require it to be segregated from potentially reactive materials.

When shipping dangerous goods internationally, it's critical to follow the IATA DGR and the IMDG Code. If an inspector discovers your shipment isn't compliant, it can result in significant legal consequences ranging from fines to prosecution and prison sentences.

International Land Shipments

When you're transporting dangerous goods internationally using trains, vehicles or boats on inland waterways, the applicable regulations depend on the location and mode of transport.

Countries in the European Economic Area and other signatory nations accessible by land follow three specific codes:

• Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail
• Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road 
• European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Inland Waterways

The US, Canada and Mexico also have specific rules for dangerous goods. Road and rail shipments from the US to Canada must adhere to the US Hazardous Materials Regulations. Shipments traveling from Canada to the US by road or rail are governed by the Canadian Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations. While the two are similar, TDG Regulations have more forbidden and regulated items.

If you're shipping dangerous goods between the US and Mexico, you must pay attention to the HMR and the Mexican Regulation for the Land Transportation of Hazardous Materials and Wastes. As with Canadian regulations, the two codes have small but important differences.

Countries not covered by these regulations, such as China and Thailand, have their own requirements for international land shipments.

Domestic Regulations for Shipping Dangerous Goods

The Hazardous Materials Regulations govern domestic shipments of dangerous goods in the US. Several regulatory bodies are responsible for enforcing the law:

• The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
• The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 
• The Federal Railroad Administration 
• The Federal Aviation Administration 
• The United States Coast Guard

The HMR gives specific guidelines for each step in the process of transporting dangerous goods, including:

• Classifying and describing the hazardous material
• Packing, labeling, marking and handling
• Documenting shipments
• Reporting accidents
• Producing, repairing and maintaining containers
• Training personnel

Individual carriers in the US may have additional rules or stricter regulations for dangerous goods. UPS, for example, requires shipments to fulfill requirements in the HMR and the International Safe Transit Association Procedure 3A.

Best Practices for Dangerous Goods Shipping

As you're packing a shipment of dangerous goods for domestic or international delivery, this checklist of best practices can help you stay compliant:

• Consider all modes of transportation. International shipments are often multimodal, so it's important to follow the rules for each. Since most dangerous goods regulations are based on UN recommendations, the codes are often similar. Even so, small variations can happen. Make sure your shipment meets the strictest standards for each applicable code.
• Classify the material. Examine the relevant regulations for your shipment and select the correct class for the material. This is usually based on the primary risk, but you might also have additional risks. If you're shipping domestically, the HMR's Hazardous Materials Table can help you find the correct option. You may also need to identify the correct packing group for the level of risk (high, medium or low).
• Pack items carefully. Your containers and packages must meet the HMR's specifications for damage resistance, performance and quality. These standards vary by packing group. Pay attention to rules regarding allowed quantities and material segregation, loading and securing.
• Label items correctly. Each hazardous material has specific requirements for communicating the hazard class and division, packing group, UN ID, placards, labels and other markings. These markings ensure everyone who interacts with the shipment is well-informed. Depending on the code you're following, some or all these elements may need to appear on the shipping documents, freight containers, packaging, rail containers, unit load devices and transport vehicles.
• Document shipments. You're responsible for creating all required documentation, including shipping papers that certify compliance with the relevant code. The IMDG Code also requires a dangerous goods declaration.
• Report accidents. If there's an accident or another incident when preparing or transporting hazardous materials, you must report it to the appropriate regulatory body.
• Enlist training personnel: Many codes regulating dangerous goods require training for anyone who prepares, handles, transports or documents hazardous goods. The same goes for people who work with the containers and vehicles used to pack and transport the goods. Most governing bodies offer a certification process.

Given the complexity of this process, many shippers opt to work with an experienced partner such as Atlas International.

International Hazmat Shipping

Shipping dangerous goods internationally comes with unique challenges. Compliance can be tricky since different countries and regions use different standards. It's your responsibility to ensure your shipment is classified, packed, labeled and documented according to every applicable code. Regulatory variations can complicate the process. Since hazmat regulations are subject to change, you must use the latest version.

Then, consider the practicalities of shipping dangerous materials from one place to another. International transport involves a number of stresses that can increase risk, such as inclement weather, unpredictable temperatures or unexpected shocks and movements. Your packing materials and procedures must be carefully designed and rigorously tested to ensure safety. It's also important to consider shipping logistics and plan a route that minimizes danger.

Logistics for any international shipment can be complicated, and when hazardous materials are involved, the process is even more detailed. Most international shipments of dangerous goods involve customs and multiple carriers, creating a considerable logistical burden. Expect to communicate and coordinate with each involved party to ensure every step moves smoothly and safely. Given the extra compliance requirements involved, choosing reputable international carriers may require extensive research and communication — particularly when a language barrier is involved.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Dangerous Goods

Given the potential safety risks involved with shipping dangerous goods, regulatory bodies take compliance seriously. Avoiding common mistakes can help you avoid delays, accidents, fines and other penalties.

Lack of Awareness

The list of hazardous materials contains many products that seem benign. For example, nail polish and aerosols are considered hazardous due to their flammability. If you're not familiar with regulations, it's easy to send a shipment that doesn't follow the rules.

A lack of awareness isn't a defense — mistakenly shipping dangerous items without following the applicable regulations can still result in penalties. To avoid this issue, research regulations and verify the status of all items before shipping.

Incorrect Classifications

Hazmat classifications can be complex, particularly when you're working with multiple regulations. Since the class determines other requirements, including packing and labeling, the wrong classification can have a dangerous domino effect. For example, if you misclassify a material that's dangerous when wet, carriers won't know to store it in a dry, ventilated area away from potential heat sources. This could result in explosions or fires and hefty consequences. Even the best-case scenario can result in fines and costly shipping delays.

The person responsible for classifying dangerous goods, whether an employee or a shipping partner, should be well-trained in the relevant regulations. When in doubt, it's always best to speak to an expert for clarification.

Inadequate Packaging

Dangerous goods regulations include packaging requirements. These rules may vary based on the packing group, the mode of transportation, the item and the quantity. Packaging that isn't up to code can cause a range of problems, including: 

• Damage due to the shocks involved with handling, loading and transporting
• Dangerous reactions
• Loss of product
• Unsafe human or animal exposure
• Environmental damage

Another common mistake shippers make is failing to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Incorrect usage can result in material failure and significant safety risks. Ideally, your training programs should include a section regarding compliant assembly, closure and storage.

Improper labeling

The labeling and marketing rules for dangerous goods can be extensive, especially for high-risk items, and it's not uncommon to miss a required mark. Because labels help ensure your containers are handled, stored and moved safely, it's important to pay attention to details.

Look out for these common elements:

• Labels: Hazmat labels, which are often shaped like a diamond, explain the contents at a glance. They typically include the classification name, such as explosive, spontaneously combustible or flammable liquid. Some must also contain the classification number.
• Placards: Placards are diamond-shaped and larger than labels. They're designed for bulk packages, rail cars, large containers and unit load devices. Requirements vary, but they often include the classification name and number.
• Marks: Hazardous material markings are the smallest element and are often applied to or printed on a package. They contain information about the contents of a package, such as its name, UN ID and relevant warnings or directions. You may also need to include shipment and recipient details. Certain materials require additional marks to denote biohazards, inhalation hazards and other dangers.

These elements may come with size requirements. For example, under the HMR, placards must be at least 9.84 inches on each side. They must be clearly visible and printed in a color that stands out against the container or package.

Ship Dangerous Goods Safely With Atlas International

Shipping dangerous goods and hazardous materials requires careful attention to detail and updated knowledge of relevant regulations. Given the complex compliance requirements, safety risks and potential legal penalties, many companies opt to work with an experienced shipping partner, such as Atlas International.

With more than 60 years of experience in domestic and international shipments, our team brings the insight and knowledge you need to ship dangerous goods safely around the globe. We can help you manage the complexities of shipping dangerous goods, from selecting the correct classification to packing and labeling containers.

Concerned about international logistics? Our extensive global supplier network includes reliable carriers who are experienced in hazmat regulations. With partners who are fluent in multiple languages, it's easier to communicate efficiently and accurately with port and customs officials.

If your company needs additional support with hazmat shipments, contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our international shipping experts.