Need To Ship Hazardous Goods? 3 Ways To Follow All The Rules

While shipping letters, clothing, trinkets, and other non-combustible and non-messy items is easy, shipping things like paint or batteries presents certain challenges. Since these items could become damaged during transit and create problems like sparking a fire or creating a mess, it's important to follow all the rules when you send them through the mail. Here are three simple, straightforward ways to ensure your shipment is in compliance. 

1. Do Your Homework

Before you agree to ship paint to your sister or mail that old computer to someone you sold it to online, it's important to learn more about the rules for shipping potentially hazardous goods. Call a shipping center, tell them what you might need to ship, and ask if there are special rules or rates that apply to that shipment. That way, you can be prepared for any costs that you may accrue and avoid issues like not having the right materials to pack the item. 

2. Understand Destination Laws

Shipping is one thing, but if you want that item to be received by the destination city, it's important to make sure it's labeled properly. In addition to working with a shipping professional where you live, contact shippers where the package will be received to check for anything you may need to do to streamline the process. For instance, you may need to label the item in a particular way or include crucial information on the shipping label. 

3. Be Completely Honest

When you head to the shipping center to send your item, they will talk with you about what is included in the shipment and when you need it to arrive. To avoid any problems, be completely honest about your shipment. Don't try to conceal anything that may be included. Instead, talk with them openly about what is involved so you aren't hit with any surprise charges. Oftentimes, you will be asked to fill out a shipment manifest, so make sure that the item has everything you have listed properly. If you are questioned about your shipment, answer honestly, because being transparent is important for limiting your liability. 

Anytime you need help with shipping hazardous materials somewhere, take the time to talk with postal and shipping employees about what you need to do. Bring plenty of extra packaging just in case you have to alter what you are sending or make any adjustments at the shipping center. 

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