This article covers best practices for processing orders containing Dangerous Goods in ShipHero and compliance guidelines for safe shipment preparation. Whether you are a brand or a 3PL, the legal responsibility for the safe preparation of these shipments rests with the shipper.
For instructions on applying Dangerous Goods codes to SKUs and a full carrier support matrix, see How to Ship Dangerous Goods in ShipHero.
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Best Practices for Processing Orders with Dangerous Goods
Here are tips you can implement when processing Dangerous Goods orders in ShipHero to reduce errors and streamline your fulfillment workflow.
- Segregate your orders: Use custom order statuses to designate specific orders to users and processing flows.
- Product Notes: Add product notes to SKUs with dangerous goods that require certain stickers or packing materials. These notes will appear for packers when processing orders at your packing stations.
- Use Automation Rules: Streamline operational tasks like tagging orders, adding packer notes, assigning order statuses, and mapping carrier methods when orders containing certain products are imported or created.
- Shipping Methods and Label Generation: Each type of dangerous good has specific handling requirements as determined by federal and international guidelines. Understand which shipping methods can be used for your products and directly map them to your orders using automation rules or by mapping your store's shipping methods.
- Rate Shopping: ShipHero does not recommend using the default cheapest shipping method when shipping dangerous goods, since not all carriers and shipping methods support these products. If you need to rate shop, create a custom RateShop+ profile that includes only DG-compatible methods and name it accordingly. See How to Use RateShop+ for more information.
Dangerous Goods Compliance Guidelines
Legal Notice
The following information are general guidelines when processing dangerous goods to ensure warehouse safety and prevent costly carrier fines or legal action. Always reference federal and international laws and regulations for exact procedures, and partner directly with your carrier representative for carrier-specific questions when shipping dangerous goods.
Daily Operational Checklist for Dangerous Goods
Use this checklist as a guideline before any dangerous goods leave your facility:
| Action Item | Requirement & Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Verify SDS | Always maintain a current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for every SKU. Check Section 14 (Transport Information) for the UN Number and Hazard Class. |
| Select UN Packaging | Use only UN-certified packaging that matches the Packing Group (I, II, or III) of the product. Never reuse damaged boxes. |
| Labeling & Marking | Affix all required hazard labels, orientation arrows, and the Proper Shipping Name (PSN) on a single side of the package. Ensure labels do not wrap around corners. |
| Documentation | Ensure the Shipper's Declaration or Hazmat Shipping Papers include a 24/7 emergency response phone number and the correct total quantity. |
| Segregation | Verify that incompatible chemicals (e.g., acids and bases) are not packed in the same outer container or palletized together if prohibited. |
Employee Training Requirements for Dangerous Goods
Per DOT and IATA regulations, any employee involved in the packing, labeling, or documenting of dangerous goods must undergo certified training every 2–3 years. Documenting this training is a critical part of your compliance audit trail.
If you are unsure whether a product is considered a "Dangerous Good," treat it as such until you have verified the SDS. Common household items like perfumes, aerosols, and lithium batteries often require special handling.
Carrier Cooperation for Dangerous Goods Shipments
Not all carriers accept all classes of dangerous goods. Always confirm that your selected carrier and service level (Ground vs. Air) are compatible with the specific hazard class you are shipping. For example, many lithium battery types are prohibited on passenger aircraft and must be shipped via "Cargo Aircraft Only" or Ground services.
See how to prevent items from shipping via air methods for more information.