GlossaryCarriers and services
Hazmat (dangerous goods)
Materials that pose a risk in transport, such as lithium batteries, aerosols and flammable liquids, which require special handling.
Hazardous materials, or dangerous goods, are substances and articles that can endanger people, property or the environment during transport. Common ecommerce examples include lithium batteries, perfumes, nail polish, aerosols and some cleaning products.
In the U.S., ground and domestic transport is regulated by the Department of Transportation under 49 CFR, while air shipments follow IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. Shippers must classify, package, mark and label hazmat correctly, and some items are restricted or forbidden on certain services.
Carriers require hazmat to be declared when the label is created, and staff who prepare these shipments generally need training.
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