Many consumer goods and industrial solutions require potentially harmful components. This is precisely what makes dangerous goods shipment an indispensable part of maritime trade. For example, lithium-ion battery powered gadgets and aerosol home sprays must be transported according to strict domestic and international regulations. Because of their harmful nature, it can be challenging to navigate how to ship dangerous goods.
Fortunately, many shipping companies have polished best practices for hazmat shipping to ensure safe end-to-end transport of harmful products. Here is a brief guide and essential advice every business owner must know about shipping dangerous goods.
What are considered dangerous goods?
Based on international standards, dangerous goods (DG) are categorized into nine (9) classes. Clients and shipping companies are responsible for segregating and declaring these items accordingly.
- Explosives – Have the ability to suddenly detonate due to chemical reaction
- Flammable Gases – Gas substances containing a vapor pressure of 300kPa and up at 50°C. It can potentially catch fire, asphyxiate, oxidize, or corrode materials and living things.
- Flammable Liquids – Liquid mixtures that may have a flammable vapor at certain storage temperatures.
- Flammable Solids – Solid materials that are combustible or react strongly to friction and heat.
- Oxidizing – Contains oxygen that, when released, speeds up combustion of other materials as well as release toxic fumes
- Toxic & Infectious – Toxic goods pose serious injury or risk of death if they come in contact with the skin, are ingested, or swallowed. Infectious substances carry several kinds of health risks.
- Radioactive – Goods that contain harmful radionuclides, can lead to radioactive decay and serious health risks to humans.
- Corrosives – Disintegrates and/or degrades other goods upon contact, must be kept away from potential chemical reaction triggers.
- Miscellaneous – Substances and items not covered by the mentioned categories, but still present certain dangers. Includes environmentally harmful substances, GMOs, magnetized materials, and more.
Hazmat Shipping: Safe Solution to Dangerous Goods Transport
Shipping companies in the Philippines offer hazmat shipping as a safe and secure option for transporting dangerous goods. It is a controlled and highly-regulated transport option. Shipping providers follow strict regulations for this type of cargo, including proper shipment labeling, packaging, stringent documentation, and adequate training for material handlers.
6 Helpful Tips on Dangerous Goods Shipment in the Philippines
Partner with an experienced shipping company
As the shipper or consignor, you are responsible for classification, packaging and preparation, marking and labelling, and obtaining the necessary documents and certification for your goods. However, you will need the expertise of a professional shipping company to fulfill mid to last mile delivery. Choose a reliable shipping company in the Philippines that equips their personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge for handling dangerous goods.
Chelsea Logistics and its subsidiaries, Trans-Asia, Starlite Ferries, and Chelsea Shipping accept more dangerous goods cargo compared to other shipping lines. While not all DG types are accepted, it is best to consult an authorized representative if your items can be accommodated or not.
Be familiar with domestic and international guidelines
The MARINA or Maritime Industry Authority abides by the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. It is the global standard for uniform shipment of potentially harmful materials. They also set additional domestic regulations, outlining the primary responsibilities of shipping companies and consignors. This information is crucial in knowing how to ship dangerous goods.
Classify and declare dangerous goods properly
Classification is an integral part of preparing your item for hazmat shipping. It guides you on what packaging and labels you must use. Identify the proper shipping name and assigned UN number.
The format starts with UN, followed by a four-number code that specifies harmful substances or materials contained inside. Ex. UN 1993 for flammable liquids, UN 3291 for toxic and infectious goods.
Choose the right packaging
The proper packaging is a must for hazmat shipping in the Philippines. There are three standard packaging groups:
- Packaging Group I: High-danger substances
- Packaging Group II: Medium danger substances
- Packaging Group III: Low danger substances
In some cases, complex and specialized containment systems are required for certain dangerous goods. Examples include explosives, gases, peroxides, infectious substances, radioactive material, and self-reactive substances.
TIP: For containerized shipment of DG cargo, full container load (FCL) is preferred over LCL. This way, you can ensure that hazardous goods do not interact with other cargo. FCL also minimizes the risk of contamination and handling errors.
Follow the hazmat shipping requirements
Danger shipping labels are standardized, diamond-shaped, durable signs attached to the packaging. They are used to communicate the hazards posed by certain dangerous goods on board. These are the common hazmat shipping label requirements.
- Shape and Size – Must be diamond-shaped (square on point), at least 100mm or 3.9 inches on each side, must have an inner border line 0.2 to 0.25 inches from the edge
- Hazard Class Number – Should be clearly printed on the label, at least 0.25 inches in height.
- Material – Must be weather-resistant, can last up to 30 days of fair transport conditions without deteriorating or discoloration.
- Placement – Should be on the same side as the shipping information for visibility. Never place it on the bottom of the package.
- Handling Instructions – Packages for liquids must accurately label the top portion with arrows.
Prepare the necessary documentation
Prepare a Dangerous Goods Declaration, Safety Data Sheet (SDS or MSDS), and a Dangerous Cargo Manifest for hazmat shipping in the Philippines. You may also need a packing list and special permits from relevant regulatory agencies, such as the DENR. These documents help you remain compliant with stringent rules and avoid possible challenges during shipment.
Although transporting dangerous goods involves a complicated process, by following each step meticulously, you can ensure that every product or substance is delivered in pristine condition. Finally, experienced hazmat shipping providers can simplify this complex ordeal for you.
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Chelsea Logistics is your go-to shipping provider in Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other major port links across the Philippines. We are also the country’s biggest shipping company, operating passenger, cargo, tanker, and logistics services through our subsidiaries. Throughout our years of commitment, we continue to deliver safe, secure, and reliable maritime cargo transport for Filipinos. Interested in partnering with us? Send us a message today!
