Shipping Chemicals and Hazardous Materials
Safe, Compliant Freight Solutions Nationwide
Our experts ensure your shipments meet all regulations, from proper packaging to secure transit. Get a reliable solution for your chemical and hazmat freight—without breaking the bank!
FreightCenter Specializes in Hazmat Shipping
Shipping chemicals and hazardous materials requires careful handling, strict adherence to regulations, and a deep understanding of safety protocols. Agencies like the U.S. Department of Transportation and the International Maritime Organization have strict protocols that must be followed when transporting chemicals and hazardous materials. Even minor mistakes in packaging, labeling, or transportation can pose serious risks to people, property, and the environment.
FreightCenter simplifies the complex. We connect shippers with FMCSA- and DOT-compliant hazmat carriers, help complete required documentation, and offer customized freight solutions that prioritize safety, speed, and reliability. Whether you’re moving drums, totes, or tank loads, our team is here to help—from quote to delivery.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Choose FreightCenter for Shipping Chemicals and Hazardous Materials?
Comprehensive Solutions: Shipping hazardous materials requires specialized solutions, and FreightCenter delivers just that. We connect you with trusted carriers for ground, air, or sea freight, ensuring safe and efficient handling of chemicals. Whether it’s small parcels or large bulk shipments, our team offers customized logistics from pickup to delivery.
Safety Education: Transporting hazardous materials requires strict safety measures to prevent spills and leaks. FreightCenter partners with carriers that adhere to top safety protocols, including proper classification, secure packaging, and accurate labeling. We also offer best practices for loading and unloading to ensure safe transportation.
Compliance Assistance: Shipping chemicals and hazardous materials requires strict compliance with evolving regulations to avoid delays and fines. FreightCenter stays up to date with federal and international guidelines, ensuring full compliance with DOT, EPA, OSHA, IATA, and IMDG standards. Our experts simplify the process, offering documentation assistance and proper carrier selection for hassle-free compliance.
What Counts as Chemicals and Hazardous Materials?
Chemicals and hazmat are both substances that require careful packaging and labeling for shipping. However, not all chemicals are hazardous. Some may be safe enough to ship without additional considerations and permits, only requiring the shipper to package it correctly if it is a liquid.
Hazmat, however, requires much more stringent protocols and regulations. These substances can be dangerous if exposed to external factors during transport. The materials could ignite, causing fires and explosions that put the safety of the driver, other vehicles, and pedestrians at risk.
Hazardous materials include:
- Flammable liquids
- Radioactive substances
- Toxic materials
- Explosives
- Corrosive chemicals
Shippers must determine whether the substances they are transporting are classified as hazardous materials (hazmat). To assist with this, manufacturers are required to prepare a Safety Data Sheet (SDS). The SDS includes the product’s hazard classification in the “Transportation Information” section. You can find the SDS on the manufacturer’s website or by searching for “[product name] SDS” in a web search engine. FreightCenter can also assist you in finding the SDS and other relevant documents when you ship your chemicals and hazardous materials with us.
Regulations for Shipping Chemicals and Hazardous Materials
Shipping hazardous materials is a highly regulated process in both the U.S. and internationally. Strict guidelines are in place to ensure that hazardous shipments are transported safely, minimizing risks to people, property, and the environment. Shippers must adhere to federal, state, and global regulations to remain compliant and avoid penalties, delays, or rejected shipments. Understanding these regulations is essential for any business that handles hazardous materials.
To help you understand what rules and protocols you need to stay ahead of, here is FreightCenter’s guide on domestic and international hazardous materials shipping regulations:
Domestic Regulations
In the U.S., the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (HMTA) governs the movement of dangerous goods. Enforced by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and its Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), these regulations set clear guidelines for packaging, labeling, handling, and shipping hazardous materials across roadways, rail, air, and waterways. Key requirements include:
- Proper Classification: Shippers must correctly identify and classify hazardous materials based on their chemical properties and risk factors.
- UN Packaging Standards: Hazardous materials must be shipped in UN-certified packaging designed to withstand handling and transit conditions.
- Labeling & Placarding: All shipments require hazard class labels and placards to indicate the type of materials being transported.
- Shipping Papers & Emergency Response Info: Shipments must include a Bill of Lading (BOL) and Emergency Response Information (ERI) to assist first responders in case of an accident. You may need additional documentation for the carrier you are shipping with; your FreightCenter agent can help you find out all the papers you’ll need before your carrier arrives.
Failure to comply with DOT regulations can result in heavy fines, shipment delays, or even legal action. FreightCenter helps shippers navigate these requirements, ensuring every hazmat shipment is fully compliant so they are fully prepared for their freight shipping experience and can instead focus on their business objectives.
International Standards
For businesses shipping hazardous materials across borders or overseas, international regulations add another layer of complexity. The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), governs the transport of hazardous materials by sea. This code outlines strict guidelines for packaging, labeling, storage, and emergency response procedures for chemicals and hazardous substances moving through global shipping lanes.
For air freight, the International Air Transport Association (IATA)‘s manual on Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) sets industry standards for handling, packaging, and labeling hazardous materials in compliance with international aviation safety laws.
Additionally, the United Nations (UN) Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, also known as the UN Model Regulations, provide a globally recognized framework for classifying and transporting hazardous goods across different modes of transportation. Many countries base their national regulations on these guidelines, ensuring consistency when handling dangerous materials worldwide.
Understanding regulations and protocols for shipping chemicals and hazardous materials can be complicated, but FreightCenter will be your official guide through the chaos! We’ll assist you in filing all the forms you’ll need to ship your substances to your destination, whether domestically or internationally. We’ll also provide you with our own documents, including your Bill of Lading and booking receipt, so you are prepared for your freight shipping experience.
To create value for our customers by delivering customized shipping solutions that meet their unique needs and to fulfill shipping demands from simple to complex with expertise, guidance and ingenuity.
Palletized hazmat goods with proper labels and packaging.
Dedicated loads of drums, IBC totes, or containers.
Bulk liquid chemicals or high-volume fuel shipments.
Cost-effective long-distance hazmat hauling.
Packaging Your Chemicals and Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials (hazmat) shipments must be properly packaged to prevent leaks and exposure to dangers. They must comply with regulations from the Department of Transportation (DOT), OSHA, IATA for air transport, and IMDG for ocean transport. Proper packaging is crucial for safety and regulatory compliance. FreightCenter can help you with packaging your chemicals and hazardous materials when you book with us, but here are some guidelines you should know now:
Hazardous Chemicals
UN-Rated & DOT-Approved Containers: Hazardous materials must be packed in UN-certified containers that meet specific durability and performance standards. These containers undergo rigorous testing to withstand pressure changes, impact, and leakage risks.
Secondary Containment: Many hazmat shipments require an additional protective layer, such as absorbent materials, sealed plastic liners, or overpack drums, to contain leaks in case of a primary container failure.
Proper Sealing & Closure Methods: All containers must be securely sealed using DOT-approved closures, such as pressure-tested drum lids, tamper-evident seals, or threaded caps, to prevent accidental spills during transit.
Cushioning & Stability: Inner packaging, like dividers, padding, or shock-absorbing materials, may be required to prevent container movement and breakage, especially for fragile or reactive chemicals.
Temperature & Environmental Protection: Some hazardous materials, such as flammable liquids or perishable chemicals, must be shipped in temperature-controlled or insulated packaging to prevent dangerous reactions.
Non-Hazardous Chemicals
Regular, non-hazardous chemicals have less stringent packaging and labeling requirements than hazardous materials, but still require careful handling to avoid spills, contamination, or product loss, especially for liquids, powders, and sensitive compounds. Best practices include:
Sealed Containers: Liquids should be stored in leak-proof, impact-resistant containers such as plastic or metal drums, jugs, or secure glass bottles, depending on the chemical’s properties.
Secondary Containment: While not always required, using a secondary layer of containment (such as a plastic liner inside a box) helps prevent leaks if the primary container is damaged.
Cushioning Materials: For fragile or breakable containers, foam inserts, bubble wrap, or absorbent padding help minimize movement and reduce the risk of breakage.
Moisture & Temperature Protection: Some chemicals are sensitive to temperature or humidity, requiring insulated or temperature-controlled packaging.
Documentation Needed for Hazmat Shipping
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Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS)
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UN Number and Proper Shipping Name
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Bill of Lading with Hazmat Designation
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Emergency Response Phone Number
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Hazard Class Labels and Placards
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IATA Forms for Air Shipments (if applicable)
Don’t forget that FreightCenter partners with third-party packaging companies that can assist you with packing your materials by providing the tools and packaging supplies. Some companies can even package your chemicals for you; FreightCenter can get you in contact with these companies so that you don’t have to handle your substances by yourself and turn your focus to other aspects of your business.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
FreightCenter Ships Chemicals and Hazardous Materials Safely!
Shipping chemicals and hazardous materials requires expertise and strict adherence to regulations, which is where FreightCenter excels. We connect you with a network of certified carriers ready to transport hazmat products safely, whether by ground, air, or sea. Our team customizes solutions to suit both your business needs and regulatory compliance.
Safety is our top priority, and we collaborate with carriers that follow the highest safety standards to prevent leaks and spills. We assist you with the necessary classification, packaging, and labeling, ensuring your shipments move without delays or compliance issues. Navigating hazardous materials regulations can be complex, but FreightCenter simplifies compliance. Our hazmat specialists stay updated on the latest DOT, IATA, and IMDG requirements, handling everything from carrier selection to paperwork. Trust FreightCenter to streamline hazmat shipping and keep your supply chain moving.
Get a fast, competitive quote today using FreightCenter’s online quote tool, or call 800-716-7608 to speak with a hazmat shipping expert.
FAQ: Shipping Chemicals and Hazardous Materials
Q. What qualifies as hazardous materials for shipping?
Hazardous materials, or hazmat, are substances that pose a risk to health, safety, or the environment during transportation. These can include flammable liquids, corrosive chemicals, explosives, radioactive materials, and toxic substances. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) categorizes hazardous materials into nine classes, each requiring specific handling and compliance measures.
Q. What are the packaging requirements for shipping chemicals and hazardous materials?
Proper packaging is crucial for hazardous material shipments. Packaging must meet DOT and international standards, including the use of UN-rated containers, leak-proof secondary containment, and secure closures. Labels and placards indicating the type of hazardous material must also be clearly displayed. FreightCenter can help you understand and meet these packaging requirements.
Q. How do I ensure my hazardous materials shipment complies with regulations?
Compliance depends on proper classification, packaging, labeling, and documentation. FreightCenter ensures compliance by guiding shippers through regulatory requirements, working with certified hazmat carriers, and verifying that shipments adhere to DOT, IATA (air), IMDG (ocean), and other relevant regulations.
Q. What documentation is required to ship hazardous materials?
Hazmat shipments require specific documentation, including a Bill of Lading (BOL), a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), hazardous materials shipping papers, and emergency response information. Depending on the material, additional permits or certifications may be required.
Q. Are there additional fees for shipping hazardous materials?
Yes, hazmat shipments often incur additional fees due to the extra precautions, specialized handling, and compliance requirements involved. These fees vary based on the material, transportation mode, and destination.
Q. Can hazardous materials be shipped internationally?
Yes, but international shipments must comply with additional regulations, including those set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for air freight and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code for ocean freight. FreightCenter works with carriers experienced in international hazmat shipping to ensure compliance with all necessary laws and guidelines.
Q. What happens if my hazardous materials shipment is rejected or delayed?
Rejections and delays often occur due to incorrect documentation, improper packaging, or non-compliance with regulations. If this happens, FreightCenter assists in identifying the issue, making necessary corrections, and working with carriers to get your shipment back on track as quickly as possible.
Q. How do I find out if my shipment requires special permits or carrier restrictions?
Some hazardous materials require special permits, carrier approval, or additional handling measures before they can be transported. You can learn more about special permits from the DOT’s website and carrier restrictions directly from your carrier (from their website or by calling and emailing them). Your FreightCenter agent will also know what materials will require permits and special regulations.
Q. Do I need special training or certification to ship hazardous materials?
If you’re regularly shipping hazardous materials, you or your team may need hazmat training to comply with DOT, OSHA, or international regulations. Shippers must understand classification, packaging, labeling, and documentation requirements. While FreightCenter does not provide training, our experts can guide you through the process and ensure you meet all necessary requirements before shipping.
Q. Can FreightCenter ship all types of hazardous materials?
FreightCenter works with a network of specialized carriers equipped to handle a wide range of hazardous materials. However, certain highly restricted or prohibited substances may require additional approvals or special permits.
Smart Tips for Hazmat Shippers
Don’t reuse containers
Don’t reuse containers unless they’re UN-rated and approved for your material class.
Use “overpacks”
Use “overpacks” for damaged or repackaged containers and label accordingly.
Train your team
Train your team—ensure someone on staff is DOT Hazmat-certified or work with us.
