We explain what a MSDS is and why international transportation require it.

1. What is MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)?

As chemical transportation basically needs to provide MSDS report, a MSDS report is basically for chemicals.

2. What does a complete MSDS say?

MSDS is actually a comprehensive technical manual, focusing on hazard reminders and safe operation guidelines, mainly including the following 16 items: chemical and enterprise identification, ingredient information, hazard identification information, first aid measures, fire protection measures, accidental leakage disposal measures , handling and storage, exposure control and personal protection, physicochemical properties, stability and reactivity, toxicological information, ecological information, disposal information, transportation information, regulatory information, other information.

3. Is MSDS common in shipping?

Perhaps it is because the “Identification and Classification Report for Air Transport of Goods” needs to be provided when chemicals and other air transport are carried out by air, commonly known as air transport identification. But there is no such identification by sea transportation, so MSDS must be used to judge whether the goods are suitable for sea transportation and what appropriate method is adopted to ensure safe transportation.

For export booking of specific goods, the carrier (shipping company) will require MSDS, which may also be required for customs clearance, and may also be required by the buyers.

In fact, all people who come into contact with or may come into contact with this cargo (including depot/warehouse personnel, people handling loading and unloading, etc.) need MSDS.

4. What is the main purpose of the MSDS report?

1. Customs inspection (whether the ingredients are prohibited items)

2. Freight forwarding declaration (understand product transportation requirements)

3. Customer requirements (different regional regulations are different)

4. Enterprise safety management (understanding the dangerous characteristics of products)

5. Hazard registration (implementing strict safety supervision and management)