When transporting hazardous materials, clear and accurate labeling isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s a matter of safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. Whether you’re shipping flammable liquids, corrosive chemicals, or explosive substances, using the correct transport markings is essential to prevent accidents, ensure proper handling, and avoid legal penalties.
This article explores the crucial role that hazardous materials (hazmat) shipping labels play in logistics, the types of labels available, common labeling mistakes, and best practices. By the end, you’ll know how to evaluate your current labeling process and whether you’re using the right tools to stay compliant.
Why Hazardous Materials Shipping Labels Matter
Shipping dangerous goods is strictly regulated by international and domestic laws, including the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). A critical part of these regulations is the use of standardized warning labels that communicate the nature of the hazard.
These labels:
- Help handlers identify risks instantly
- Ensure first responders know how to react in emergencies
- Prevent costly fines and shipping delays
- Aid in sorting, storing, and segregating chemicals appropriately
Without the right labels, your entire supply chain becomes vulnerable to miscommunication, accidents, or even environmental disasters.
Common Types of Dangerous Goods Labels
Hazardous goods are categorized into 9 main classes, each with specific label designs and symbols. Below is an overview:
Class 1: Explosives
- Label: Orange background with exploding bomb symbol
- Examples: Fireworks, ammunition, airbag inflators
Class 2: Gases
- Subdivided into flammable, non-flammable, and toxic gases
- Label: Gas cylinder or flame icon depending on the type
Class 3: Flammable Liquids
- Label: Red background with a flame symbol
- Examples: Gasoline, alcohols, acetone
Class 4: Flammable Solids
- Label: Stripes or flame symbol depending on subclass
- Examples: Matches, magnesium, sulfur
Class 5: Oxidizers and Organic Peroxides
- Label: Yellow or red/yellow split, featuring a flame over a circle
Class 6: Toxic and Infectious Substances
- Label: Skull and crossbones or biohazard symbol
- Examples: Pesticides, medical waste
Class 7: Radioactive Materials
- Label: Trefoil radiation symbol, white/yellow background
Class 8: Corrosive Substances
- Label: Black and white with test tubes dripping on hands and metals
Class 9: Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods
- Label: Black and white stripes, often used for lithium batteries
Each label must be at least 100 mm x 100 mm, weather-resistant, and placed on a contrasting background.
Are You Making These Common Labeling Mistakes?
Many businesses, especially smaller operators or those new to hazardous materials logistics, make critical mistakes:
- Using the wrong class label: Misclassifying a chemical can lead to serious accidents.
- Poor print quality or fading labels: These compromise legibility and violate compliance standards.
- Missing UN number or shipping name: These must accompany the pictogram.
- Incorrect label placement: Labels must be visible from at least one side of the package.
- No secondary or handling labels: Items like “Keep Away from Heat” or “This Side Up” are equally important.
Mistakes not only result in fines but also endanger lives.
Best Practices for Labeling Dangerous Goods
Here’s how to ensure you’re doing it right:
- Classify Your Product Properly: Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and UN codes.
- Use Durable, Chemical-Resistant Labels: Especially important for outdoor, long-haul, or international shipments.
- Print Using High-Quality Thermal Printers: Thermal labels prevent smudging and fading over time.
- Verify Label Placement: Make sure the label is fully visible and not folded or obscured.
- Include All Required Information: This includes hazard class, proper shipping name, UN number, and any special handling instructions.
- Train Your Staff: Everyone involved in packaging or shipping should be trained in hazmat compliance.
How Betckey Can Help
Betckey offers a wide range of durable, compliant thermal labels suitable for all classes of dangerous goods. Our labels:
- Are made from waterproof, smudge-resistant materials
- Feature strong adhesives that stay put on drums, boxes, and shrink wrap
- Are compatible with most thermal printers including Zebra, Dymo, and Brother
- Include blank templates for customization or pre-printed options for convenience
Whether you’re a large manufacturer or a small exporter, Betckey provides labeling solutions that keep your cargo compliant and your people safe.
FAQs
1. What happens if I use the wrong hazmat label?
Using the wrong label can lead to regulatory fines, shipment delays, and increased risk of accidents or exposure. It’s essential to match the correct class and UN number to each shipment.taba squishy
2. Can I print my own hazardous materials labels?
Yes, as long as your labels meet international standards in terms of size, durability, legibility, and design. Thermal printers and high-quality label rolls from Betckey are a great option.
3. Are Betckey labels compliant with DOT and IATA regulations?
Yes, Betckey provides labels that are fully compliant with DOT, IATA, and IMDG standards when printed with the correct designs and information.