Shipping dangerous goods internationally is an intricate process that requires meticulous planning and compliance with safety regulations. One of these regulations is the dangerous goods declaration. It is a critical document that must be completed and filed with the shipper, carrier, and pertinent parties before transporting.
Today, we will delve into the components, tips for filling out, and considerations linked to the shipper’s declaration. Furthermore, we also supply a sample dangerous goods declaration form to serve as a template to help you get started.
Table of Contents:
What is the shipper's declaration for dangerous goods?
The Shipper’s Declaration of Dangerous Goods is a crucial document that ensures the safety, security, and legitimacy of global cargo shipping.
Commonly known as a shipper’s declaration, this document certifies that the shipments adhere to the Dangerous Goods Regulations outlined by the IATA and other relevant standards, no matter the labeling, packing, etc.
Moreover, it encompasses essential details about shipped hazardous materials, empowering customs, airlines, ocean liners, and other authorities to implement necessary measures for securely handling the goods.
What details should a shipper’s declaration include?
Shipper and consignee information:
- Full name and address of the shipper or consignor.
- Provide contact details, including phone number and email address. If there is missing or inaccurate information, your shipment might not arrive at its destination (on time).
Airway bill details:
- Include the airway bill number associated with the cargo shipment.
Departure and destination airports:
- Specify the full names of the departure and arrival airports. If needed, the carrier can supply the airport codes for accuracy.
Shipment types:
- Specify whether the goods are radioactive or non-radioactive. For shipments involving radioactive materials, furnish pertinent information such as the radionuclide, activity, and packaging details as mandated by the relevant regulations.
Additional Handling Information:
- Indicate any specific handling instructions or precautions related to dangerous goods.
- Enter a 24-hour contact number for emergencies, ensuring that the person answering can provide details about the package contents.
Certification and signature:
- Input the name, title, place, and date of the individual responsible for preparing the shipment. This person should be an employee with current hazmat training.
Page x of x pages:
- Insert the page number for the dangerous goods declaration. If the shipment includes two pages, specify that the shipper’s declaration form is Page 1 of 2 Page.
Nature and quantity of dangerous goods:
- It is a vital section in a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods that requires detailed and accurate information about your transported cargo. Keep reading for a breakdown of how to fill out this content.
How to complete a dangerous goods declaration?
UN/ID number:
Provide the UN/ID number assigned to the specific dangerous goods. Examples include UN 3480 for lithium-ion batteries and UN 1992 for Toxic liquid.
Proper shipping name (PSN):
Identify and declare the PSN of the hazardous materials in alignment with the presentation in Section 4 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, such as Toxic liquid, organic, n.o.s. (not otherwise specified) and White Phosphorus.
Class or division (subsidiary risk):
Indicate the class or division of the dangerous goods according to the applicable classification system (e.g., Class 3 for flammable liquids and Class 8 for corrosive substances). Declare any subsidiary risk associated with the DG cargo if needed.
Packing group (if applicable):
Specify the appropriate packing group (I, II, or III).
Quantity and type of packing:
Clearly state the quantity, gross weight, and volume of the shipped dangerous goods using measurement units like grams, kilograms, and CBM. For example, 1x40HQ container/22,202.4KGS/67.97CBM.
Packing instructions:
This column requires the IATA Packing Instruction number, instances like 620 for Category A infectious substances and 954 for dry ice.
Authorization:
Leave this space blank unless specific provisions are applicable, such as entering “Limited Quantity” when necessary or indicating special approvals.
Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods example
A hazardous goods declaration form should be prepared carefully, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. You can download the fillable DG declaration example template and follow the guidelines above to complete it.
Tips to ensure accurate and compliant declarations
Make sure all cargo details are correct
Ensure accuracy with names, addresses, and contact details on the Shipper’s Declaration of Dangerous Goods. Include detailed information about the goods, their composition, and any special handling instructions. Avoid using abbreviations and be specific about the contents.
Technology solutions
Consider using specialized software or technology solutions, such as Labelmaster. These tools can minimize errors and assist with shipping supplies, including packing or labeling materials for hazmat.
Consult with experts
Seek guidance from experts, like Airsupply, especially when dealing with complex or unfamiliar shipments. Their expertise can address specific challenges and ensure regulatory compliance.
ASLG - Your best dangerous good shipping experts
Our ASLG is committed to ensuring the accuracy of the dangerous goods shipper declaration and handling your hazardous goods with the utmost care.
We have accumulated over eight years of extensive experience in international shipping and the proficient handling of dangerous goods.
Throughout this period, we have successfully transported various classes of hazardous materials, including Class 9, 8, 6, 5, 3, and 2 DG cargo, to destinations overseas.
With our transparent pricing structure and direct access to cargo space resources, you can receive competitive rates with no hidden costs.
Moreover, our advanced visibility systems allow you to track your dangerous goods 24/7, providing real-time updates and peace of mind during shipping.
