Competent handling of hazardous materials shipping is vital to the safety and security of everyone that may be exposed to a hazmat shipment. Our logistics experts know precisely how to prepare the required hazardous material documents and are well-versed in shipping hazmat requirements from our network of carriers.
The Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (HMTA) established in 1975, is the primary government legislation in the United States controlling the transport of hazardous materials. Its objective is to safeguard against the dangers of hazardous materials to life, property, and environment.
Hazmat shipping rules are enforced in four key areas:
- Procedures and Policies
- Product Designations & Labeling Requirements
- Packaging Needs
- Functional Policies
There are many items that you don’t realize are considered dangerous such as auto parts, computer parts, medical equipment, and electronics.
Common descriptions that may indicate a shipment requires safe handling of hazardous materials include, but are not limited to:
- Acids
- Combustibles
- Gases
- Explosives/Fireworks
- Infections materials
- Poisons
- Radioactives
- Toxic Materials
- Volatile compounds
Violation of the HMTA guidelines can lead to civil or criminal charges unless special authorization is granted under the discretion of the Assistant of Transport.
Avoid the hassle and let Unishippers use our substantial hazmat shipper experience to get your potentially dangerous cargo safely to its final destination.