HazmatTable Guide
How Do I Read an SDS for Hazmat Shipping?
An SDS can help identify the product, ingredients and transportation information, but it does not replace the shipper’s responsibility to classify the material correctly.
Short answer
An SDS can help identify the product, ingredients and transportation information, but it does not replace the shipper’s responsibility to classify the material correctly.
An SDS can help identify the product, ingredients and transportation information, but it does not replace the shipper’s responsibility to classify the material correctly.
Why this matters
Section 3 commonly provides composition information and Section 14 commonly provides transportation information. PHMSA specifically suggests checking Section 14 when the proper shipping name is uncertain.
A better workflow
Use the SDS to identify constituents and suggested transport information, then verify the applicable HMR entry, Appendix A status, RQ, special provisions and packaging requirements.
Check your material in HazmatTable
Search the table, compare the listed RQ, and see the source in seconds.
What HazmatTable helps with
- Search a chemical, synonym, waste code or radionuclide.
- See the listed RQ and units without scanning a long PDF.
- Preserve important Appendix A footnotes and source context.
- Compare an entered package quantity with the listed RQ.
- Continue into related shipping and classification guides.
Important: HazmatTable is a reference and workflow tool, not a legal certification of a shipment. The shipper must verify the current HMR and the actual material, quantity, packaging and mode.
Authoritative references: 49 CFR §172.101 / Appendix A and PHMSA hazmat guidance. PHMSA Hazmat · Appendix A source used for this database