How to Ship Aerosols: A Step-by-Step Guide

Shipping aerosols can be a bit tricky due to their pressurized contents and potential hazards. Whether you’re a business owner needing to send products like hairspray, deodorant, or cleaning supplies, or an individual shipping a few items, it’s important to follow the proper guidelines. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ship aerosols safely and legally.

Understanding Aerosols and Their Risks

Aerosols are products that contain pressurized gas or liquid that’s released as a fine spray. Common examples include:

● Personal Care Products: Hairspray, deodorant, shaving cream

● Household Items: Air fresheners, insect repellents, cleaning sprays

● Industrial Products: Spray paint, lubricants, adhesives

Because they are pressurized, aerosols are considered hazardous materials. They can be flammable, reactive, or capable of causing environmental harm, which is why shipping them requires special care.

Regulations You Need to Know

Shipping aerosols is regulated to ensure safety during transit. Here’s a rundown of the key regulations you’ll need to follow:

● DOT Regulations: In the United States, the Department of Transportation (DOT) classifies aerosols as hazardous materials. They must be shipped in accordance with the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR).

● IATA Guidelines: If you’re shipping aerosols by air, you’ll need to comply with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations. These rules are stricter due to the potential risks associated with air travel.

● IMDG Code: For international shipping by sea, the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code applies. This code outlines how to pack, label, and ship hazardous materials, including aerosols.

How to Ship Aerosols

Let’s break down the process of shipping aerosols into easy-to-follow steps.

1. Identify and Classify the Aerosols

The first step is to identify the specific aerosols you’re shipping. Check the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for information on its classification. Aerosols typically fall under Class 2 of hazardous materials, which includes gases.

● Flammable Aerosols: These are the most common and include products like spray paints and deodorants.

● Non-Flammable Aerosols: These might include certain cleaning sprays or products labeled as non-flammable.

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2. Choose the Right Packaging

Proper packaging is crucial when shipping aerosols to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with regulations.

● Approved Containers: Use containers that are approved for hazardous materials. These are often made of metal or strong plastic and are designed to withstand the pressures that could build up during transit.

● Secure Packaging: Pack the aerosols in a way that prevents them from moving around. Use cushioning materials like bubble wrap or foam inserts to protect the cans.

● Outer Packaging: Place the securely packed aerosols in a sturdy outer box. The box should be made of durable cardboard and be in good condition to avoid any punctures or leaks.

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3. Label the Package Correctly

Labeling is a key part of shipping aerosols safely. The labels inform carriers and handlers about the contents and the risks involved.

● Hazard Labels: Apply the appropriate hazard labels to the package. This includes the flammable gas symbol if your aerosols are flammable.

● UN Number: Mark the package with the correct UN number, which is usually UN1950 for aerosols. This identifies the type of hazardous material.

● Proper Shipping Name: Include the proper shipping name, such as “Aerosols, flammable” or “Aerosols, non-flammable,” depending on the contents.

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4. Prepare the Necessary Documentation

Shipping aerosols requires proper documentation to ensure that the package is handled correctly throughout the shipping process.

● Shipping Papers: These documents outline the contents of the shipment, including the hazard classification and quantity. They should be accurate and complete.

● Declaration of Dangerous Goods: If shipping by air, you’ll need to fill out a Declaration of Dangerous Goods form, stating that the shipment complies with all relevant regulations.

● Emergency Response Information: Include information on how to handle the aerosols in case of an emergency, such as a spill or fire.

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5. Choose a Suitable Carrier

Not all carriers handle aerosols, so it’s important to choose one that’s equipped and authorized to ship hazardous materials.

● Check Carrier Policies: Confirm that the carrier you choose accepts aerosols and that they have the necessary certifications to transport hazardous materials.

● Service Options: Depending on the carrier, you might need to select specific service options designed for hazardous materials. For example, some carriers require aerosols to be shipped via ground transportation only.

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Practical Tips for Shipping Aerosols

Shipping aerosols can be a smooth process if you follow these practical tips:

● Plan Ahead: Since shipping hazardous materials involves extra steps and documentation, give yourself plenty of time to prepare the shipment.

● Keep Packages Upright: When packing aerosols, keep the cans upright to reduce the risk of leaks or bursts during transit.

● Monitor for Leaks: Before sealing the package, check for any signs of leaks or damage to the aerosol cans. If you notice anything unusual, replace the can or packaging.

● Communicate with the Recipient: Let the recipient know that the package contains aerosols and provide them with tracking information so they can monitor the shipment.

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Case Study: Shipping Aerosol Paints

Let’s look at an example of how to ship aerosol paints safely:

Step-by-Step Example

1. Identify and Classify: Check the SDS for the aerosol paint to confirm it’s classified as a flammable aerosol under Class 2.

2. Packaging: Use a metal or plastic container approved for hazardous materials, pack the aerosol cans with bubble wrap, and place them in a sturdy outer box.

3. Labeling: Apply the flammable gas hazard label and mark the package with UN1950 and “Aerosols, flammable.”

4. Documentation: Complete the shipping papers and, if shipping by air, fill out the Declaration of Dangerous Goods form.

5. Choose a Carrier: Select a carrier with experience in shipping hazardous materials and confirm that they accept aerosol paints.