What You Need to Know About Shipping Hazardous Materials

How to Safely Ship Hazardous Materials

Shipping hazardous materials can be a dangerous process if not done properly. There are specific regulations and processes to follow to identify the state of the materials. If you’re not sure how to ship or classify your hazardous materials, you aren’t alone! Learn more about the importance of shipping hazardous materials properly, how to classify them, and how drivers are able to ensure their safe transportation.

What Are Hazardous Materials?

Hazardous materials are defined as any substance or article which is capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce. This includes materials that are flammable, corrosive, poisonous, or explosive.

If hazardous materials are not shipped properly, it can lead to disastrous consequences. These can include include fires, explosions, and the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. Any hazardous material reaction can cause extensive damage to property, and serious injury or death to people nearby.

Properly Label Hazardous Materials

When shipping hazardous materials, it is important that they are correctly labeled. This includes the shipping name, hazard class, and identification number. The shipping name is the name used to describe the material on the bill of lading. The hazard class is a classification of the degree of danger posed by the material, which gives the shipper an idea of what measures they need to take to get your materials to the destination. The identification number is a four-digit code that further identifies the material. If you are unsure of classifications, your shipper can help you complete the label or BOL.

The Nine Hazard Classes:

• Class 1- Explosives

• Class 2- Gases

• Class 3- Flammable and Combustible Liquid

• Class 4- Flammable Solid, Spontaneously Combustible, and Dangerous When Wet

• Class 5- Oxidizer and Organic Peroxide

• Class 6- Poison and Poison Inhalation Hazard

• Class 7- Radioactive

• Class 8- Corrosive

• Class 9- Miscellaneous

Ensure Safe Transportation of Hazardous Materials

Transportation of hazardous materials is done so in accordance with Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) Title 49 CFR Parts 100-185, and drivers are specially trained to safely deliver them. Training involves giving drivers an awareness and familiarity with the material, an understanding of classifications, and how to handle hazardous materials securely. These trainings are updated regularly, and all drivers retake their training as new updates are released.

Trust Sutton Transport When Shipping Hazardous Materials

If you’re looking to safely ship hazardous materials in the Midwest, turn to Sutton Transport. Our biggest priority is ensuring the safety of our drivers and all others on the road when transporting any type of material. Since 1979, Sutton Transport has been delivering superior and reliable service throughout the Midwest. Learn more about Sutton Transport’s Pro Approach to HazMat LTL Shipping.