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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
The Hazardous Materials Regulations govern domestic shipments of dangerous goods in the US. Several regulatory bodies are responsible for enforcing the law:
The HMR gives specific guidelines for each step in the process of transporting dangerous goods, including:
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.
As you're packing a shipment of dangerous goods for domestic or international delivery, this checklist of best practices can help you stay compliant:
Given the complexity of this process, many shippers opt to work with an experienced partner such as Atlas International.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.