The Best Practices for Hazmat Shipping

The Best Practices for Hazmat Shipping

February 18, 2020

Shipping hazardous materials is more a part of the average American’s everyday life than they probably realize. Many items, from batteries to explosives, are classified as hazardous materials, which means they have a special set of shipping requirements.

Hazmat shipping practices in North Charleston, SC might be different according to your cargo, but there are some basic, across-the-board guidelines that will guarantee your success. If you fail to follow these guidelines, you could be fined tens of thousands of dollars by federal regulatory agencies.

Mistakes to avoid

There is a whole host of issues that can come up when shipping hazardous goods, including mislabeling goods or packing them improperly. Here are a few of the most common, so that you can avoid costly and time-consuming issues:

  • Use leakproof bags for liquids: If you’re shipping liquids, you know the major problem involved: they can leak. Using leakproof bags as primary and secondary packaging can stop problems before they start.
  • Pressure-test air shipping packages: If your cargo will be shipped via air, you need to make sure that the packaging can stand up to the high air pressure in the cargo hold. You can’t afford to find out after the fact.
  • Cushion your cargo: Like any shipping method, hazmat requires that you take appropriate care of your freight, including cushioning it properly. This is especially important because of the added danger of leaks.
  • Close the containers securely: Make sure you’re following the closing instructions precisely. Shipping containers need to be secured exactly as shown to prevent any damage or leaks.
  • Make complete declarations: It’s important for your shipping carriers to know exactly what you’re shipping so that they can take the appropriate safety precautions.

Rules and regulations to know

Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations governs hazardous material shipping. It covers shipping both interstate and intrastate, as well as international exports and imports. It’s crucial that you and your employees are familiar with these regulations.

CFR 49 is an exhaustive guide to shipping, from how you should pack your items to how to fill out a shipping declaration. Thanks to the inherently dangerous nature of the freight, there are detailed rules and regulations for every conceivable type of cargo, and it’s important that you follow them exactly.

Outside of the United States, the United Nations has a set of model declarations to guide international hazmat shipping. Some countries have adopted them or similar versions for themselves. When shipping outside the U.S., be sure to partner with a shipping company that can handle the complexities of international hazmat shipping.

Hazmat shipping guidelines in North Charleston, SC

All Points Transport is North Charleston’s premier shipping company. From hazmat to reefer shipping, and port drayage to overweight hauling, we can help you transport your freight at affordable costs. Our team is experienced in all methods of intermodal shipping and can answer any questions you may have. Do you need assistance shipping hazardous materials? We can help. Contact us today to get started on your next shipping project.

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