As international trade continues to expand, the transportation of dangerous goods has become a critical component of the logistics industry. Understanding the operational procedures and regulatory requirements for hazardous materials shipments is paramount for safe and compliant global trade operations.
1. BOOKING PROCESS
Shippers must provide export documentation 7-10 days prior to shipment. The booking request must clearly specify:
- Product names in both English and Chinese
- Packaging specifications
- Dangerous goods classification (CLASS)
- UN identification number (UN NO.)
- Any special handling requirements
Early submission facilitates vessel space allocation and proper dangerous goods declarations.
2. SUBMISSION OF DECLARATION DOCUMENTS
Four working days before shipment, exporters must provide complete customs declaration documents including:
- Dangerous goods packaging performance test results
- Individual packaging evaluation reports
- Bilingual product descriptions (English/Chinese)
- Export declaration package (commercial invoice, packing list, customs forms, and related documents)
3. PACKAGING AND LOADING PROCEDURES
Dangerous goods typically require direct vessel loading, with cargo delivery and packaging completion required 3 days before sailing:
- Shipments must be delivered to designated hazardous materials warehouses
- After packaging, transport vehicles deliver containers to factories
- Standardized packaging must prevent leaks during transit
- Marine pollutant labels must be properly affixed
- Photographic documentation of packaging is mandatory
4. CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
After confirming container numbers and weights, complete export declaration documents must be prepared and submitted. Customs authorities must grant clearance before shipment.
5. BILL OF LADING CONFIRMATION
Carriers verify bill of lading details with shippers to ensure accuracy of all shipment information.
6. COST VERIFICATION
All transportation charges including freight, insurance, and ancillary fees must be confirmed with clients to prevent unexpected costs.
7. SETTLEMENT AND DOCUMENTATION
Approximately one month after export clearance, original customs declarations and shipping documents are returned to clients for tax cancellation and final settlement.
The dangerous goods export process involves multiple interconnected stages. Strict adherence to operational protocols ensures safe international transportation while preventing costly errors. Each step requires meticulous attention to regulatory requirements and safety standards.
