⚠️ Hazmat Shipping Guide

DOT 9 hazard class reference, UN number lookup, and LTL hazmat shipping requirements — all in one place.

9 DOT Hazard Classes Click for details

🔍 UN Number / Product Search

📋 LTL Hazmat Shipping Checklist

Before You Ship — Required

1️⃣
Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
Must accompany the shipment. Standard 16-section format. Carrier and driver need this document.
2️⃣
Confirm UN Number
Every hazmat has a unique 4-digit UN number. Check SDS Section 14 (Transport Information) if unsure.
3️⃣
Proper Labels & Markings
Outer packaging must display: diamond hazard label + UN number + proper shipping name + shipper/consignee info.
4️⃣
Compliant Packaging
Must use UN-certified packaging (drums/boxes with UN markings). Packing Group determines strength: PG I strictest, PG III least strict.
5️⃣
Mark Hazmat on BOL
BOL must include: UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, packing group, emergency contact phone.
6️⃣
Emergency Contact
Must provide 24-hour emergency contact (can use CHEMTREC: 1-800-424-9300).

💡 Practical Tips

🔋 Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are the most common LTL hazmat. UN3481 (packed with equipment) has fewer restrictions than UN3480 (standalone). Most LTL carriers accept UN3481. Many refuse UN3480.

🎨 Paint & Coatings

Oil-based paint is Class 3 Flammable Liquid (UN1263). Water-based paint is usually non-hazmat. Check SDS first. Many carriers limit Class 3 weight (typically ≤5000 lbs).

🧴 Cleaning Products / Chemicals

Disinfectants, bleach, etc. may be Class 8 Corrosive. Low concentrations may qualify for Limited Quantity exemption. SDS Section 14 will specify.

🚫 Carrier Restrictions

Not all LTL carriers accept hazmat. FedEx Freight, Estes, ODFL, XPO handle most classes. Class 1 (explosives) and Class 7 (radioactive) are refused by nearly all LTL carriers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Check the product's SDS (Safety Data Sheet), Section 14 "Transport Information" will state if it's DOT regulated, the UN number, and hazard class. If unsure, confirm with the manufacturer and treat it as regulated until verified.
Request one from the product manufacturer or supplier — they are legally required to provide it. You can also search online for "product name + SDS."
Typically 20-50% more than standard freight, depending on hazard class and carrier. Class 3 (flammable) and Class 8 (corrosive) surcharges are relatively lower; Class 1 (explosive) and Class 6 (toxic) are higher.
Limited Quantity is a DOT exemption for small quantities of hazmat in small packages. Labeling and documentation requirements are simplified, but you still need to note it on the BOL. Specific limits vary by UN number.
Yes, but exemptions exist. Small lithium batteries (e.g., inside phones/laptops) may ship under Section II exemption if conditions are met. Large or standalone lithium batteries must follow full hazmat rules.

Need to Ship Hazmat?

Contact us for hazmat LTL freight quotes. We match you with qualified carriers.

Contact Us

Related Services

📦 Get LTL Quote
Ship hazmat by LTL
NMFC Code Lookup
Search freight classification codes to find the right freight class.
Freight Class Calculator
Estimate freight class from density, with the standard chart.
Address Type Checker
Check residential vs commercial address for LTL surcharge planning.
Loading Planner
Optimize 53-ft trailer loading and axle weight distribution.
All Shipping Tools
View all free shipping tools.
Related Services & Tools
LTL Freight Quote Truckload (FTL) Port Drayage Intermodal Rail Transloading NMFC Lookup Free Tools