Shipping hazardous cargo in the United States requires carriers to hold a valid hazmat license. It ensures that all safety measures are met by the carrier when moving any hazmat items. When hiring a trucking company to move hazardous material you must ensure they hold a hazmat license. But how do you know which items require hazmat classification and which items don't? We put together this article to help you understand which items are considered hazardous, and which class they fall under.
Adhesives that contain flammable solvents
Aerosol Products due to their explosive nature
Airbags that contain non-flammable compressed gas or explosive propellant
Alcohol 140 proof (70%) or higher alcohol
Alcohol-based Perfumes due to their flammable nature
Barometers that contain mercury
Dry Ice because it forms carbon dioxide and, when released, reduces the amount of oxygen in the air
First Aid Kits that contain bio-hazardous materials
Household Goods that contain strong bleaches, flammable liquids, acids and oxidizers
Mouthwash that contains alcohol
Nail Polish that contains acetone
Power Tools that contain hazardous batteries or dangerous liquids
Pressurized Caulking due to its explosive nature
Shock Absorbers that contain hydraulic fluid and compressed gas
Speakers that contain magnetized material
Class 1 – Explosives
Class 2 – Gases
Class 3 – Flammable Liquids
Class 4 – Flammable Solids
Class 5 – Oxidizers and Organic Peroxides
Class 6 – Toxic Materials and Infectious Substances
Class 7 – Radioactive Materials
Class 8 – Corrosive Materials
Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods
If you are unsure which classification your cargo falls under please contact your carrier, or the Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHSMA).