Search
Search

Last Chance to Update Your Shipping Papers

Posted on 7/1/2012 by James Griffin

Beginning January 2013, any shipping papers printed with the old style hazmat description (PSN first) will be subject to rejection by the transporter, enhanced inspection by the authorities, and possible civil fines.  The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) establishes requirements for describing hazardous materials on shipping papers at 49 CFR Part 172 Subpart C.
 
Currently, the basic description of a hazmat consists of the following four elements, in the following sequence:
 
  • the identification number,
  • the proper shipping name (PSN),
  • the hazard class or division, and
  • the packing group.
Example: UN1090//ACETONE//CLASS 3//PG III
 
When PHMSA first created the Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180), the authorized sequence was proper shipping name first, followed by hazard class/division, then the identification number, and finally the packing group.
Example: ACETONE//CLASS 3//UN1090//PG III
 
For several years both sequences were used interchangeably, then in 2007 domestic and international regulatory authorities switched over to the current style (id# first) and ceased to use the old style.
 
For various reasons, when PHMSA adopted this change they extended a six-year transitional period during which the old style sequence could continue in use. The transitional authorization ends this year.
 
Reference: “Hazardous Materials: Harmonization With the United Nations Recommendations, International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, and International Civil Aviation Oganization’s Technical Instructions” (71 FR 78596, December 29, 2006.)
 

Tags: DOT, hazmat shipping, new rules, shipping papers

Find a Post

Recent Posts

Compliance Topics

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

The training was impressive. I am not a fan of online training but this was put together very well. I would recommend Lion to others.

Donnie James

Quality Manager

The instructor was very patient and engaging - willing to answer and help explain subject matter.

Misty Filipp

Material Control Superintendent

The instructor was energetic and made learning fun compared to dry instructors from other training providers.

Andy D’Amato

International Trade Compliance Manager

I really enjoy your workshops. Thank you for such a great program and all the help Lion has provided me over the years!

George Chatman

Hazardous Material Pharmacy Technician

This training broke down the regulations in an easy-to-understand manner and made them less overwhelming. I now feel I have the knowledge to make more informed decisions.

Amanda Oswald

Shipping Professional

This course went above my expectations from the moment I walked in the door. The instructor led us through two days packed with useful compliance information.

Rachel Stewart

Environmental Manager

You blew the doors off the competition!

Stephen Bieschke

Facilities Manager

Convenient; I can train when I want, where I want.

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

I love that the instructor emphasized the thought process behind the regs.

Rebecca Saxena

Corporate Product Stewardship Specialist

Excellent job. Made what is very dry material interesting. Thoroughly explained all topics in easy-to-understand terms.

David Hertvik

Vice President

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Tips to identify and manage universal waste under more-stringent state regulations for generators and universal waste handlers in California.

Download
Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.