How to ship hazardous goods
There are many steps that need to be followed when shipping chemicals internationally or sending hazardous goods overseas. These steps begin before you even handle the goods themselves. They are as follows:
To ship dangerous goods internationally,you must meet the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) regulations and use packaging that meets UN requirements.Dangerous goods are substances or materials that can pose a risk to health, safety, or property during transport.Examples include gasoline-powered lawnmowers, pest control products, and perfume.
Here’s an example of a properly completed shipper’s declaration of dangerous goods:
Training
Anybody involved in the package of hazardous goods must have valid, up to date training enabling them to do so safely. If none of your staff can undergo this training then it may be possible for you to hire another company to do this on your behalf.
Classified and declared
Before any hazardous goods can be shipped overseas, the appropriate dangerous goods notesmust be completed according to how the items are being shipped and what their dangerous goods classes are.
These notes cannot be completed by just anybody. They need to be completed by a qualified consignor, so that the shipper and the destination country are aware on what they are shipping, what they are receiving, and how they can do so safely.
Packing
To ship dangerous goods internationally, you must use fully compliant packaging that is tested, certified and meets the UN requirements for the specific classification of goods being shipped.
Examples of approved packaging materials can befound here.
Labels and documentation
Not only must the materials be packaged securely and appropriately, but they must also be labelled correctly so that it is obvious what is being transported and the dangers of incorrect handling.
This is mostly done using dangerous goods labels and placards.
Transporting limited quantities
This information on how to ship hazardous materials applies to companies who regularly ship hazardous goods internationally by air, sea, or road. If you only transport hazardous materials in limited quantities then you may be exempt from certain packaging and labelling regulations.
See herefor more information on the exemptions that come with shipping limited quantities.
