Introduction

As global demand for preventative health products like hand sanitizers continues to surge, many businesses are looking to export these essential items. However, shipping hand sanitizers and alcohol-based products internationally comes with unique challenges due to their classification as dangerous goods. At FreightAmigo, we understand the complexities involved and are here to guide you through the process to ensure smooth and compliant shipments.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about shipping hand sanitizers, from classification and packaging requirements to necessary documentation and shipping methods. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to navigate regulations confidently and get your sanitizer products to their destinations efficiently.

Understanding the Classification of Hand Sanitizers

The first step in shipping hand sanitizers is understanding how they are classified for transportation purposes. According to international regulations:

• Hand sanitizers and alcohol wipes containing 24% or more alcohol are classified as dangerous goods.
• This classification is based on the 2015 Catalog of Hazardous Chemicals from the Emergency Management Department.
• Products in this category must be handled in accordance with the International Air Dangerous Goods Regulations and International Maritime Dangerous Goods Regulations.

Some common products that fall under this classification include:

• 75% Alcohol Wipes
• 75% Hand Sanitizers

Understanding this classification is crucial as it determines the specific requirements for packaging, labeling, and documentation when shipping these products internationally.

Proper Packaging for Hand Sanitizers

Ensuring that hand sanitizers are packaged correctly is essential for safe transportation and compliance with regulations. Here are the key packaging requirements to follow:

• Place an absorbent material, such as a towel, inside the carton before adding the sanitizer bottles. This precaution helps contain any potential leaks during transit.
• Position all sanitizer bottles upright within the carton. Never place them sideways or upside down.
• Affix a “This Way Up” label to the exterior of the carton to ensure proper handling.
• Use cushioning or additional packing material to protect individual bottles and prevent movement during transportation.

Proper labeling is also a critical aspect of packaging dangerous goods like hand sanitizers. You’ll need to include the following labels:

1. “This Way Up” label
2. UN Number Label:
   • For hand sanitizers containing ethanol: UN1170
   • For hand sanitizers without ethanol but with alcohol: UN1987

By following these packaging guidelines, you’ll ensure that your hand sanitizer shipments are compliant with international regulations and better protected during transit.

Essential Documentation for Shipping Hand Sanitizers

Proper documentation is crucial when shipping hand sanitizers internationally, especially when exporting from China. The following documents are required:

1. Dangerous Goods Packing Report (DGM) – Known in Chinese as “运输鉴定报告”
2. Product Technical Specifications – Known in Chinese as “产品技术说明书”
3. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) – Known in Chinese as “化学安全品”

These documents provide essential information about the nature of the goods, their composition, and proper handling instructions. Having all required documentation prepared and readily available will help streamline the shipping process and prevent delays or rejections at customs.

Choosing the Right Shipping Method

When it comes to shipping hand sanitizers internationally, you have two main options: air freight and ocean freight. Each method has its own considerations:

Air Freight

Shipping hand sanitizers by air can be challenging due to strict regulations on dangerous goods. Many airlines may refuse to carry these shipments to minimize their risk. If air freight is necessary, be prepared for potential rejections and have alternative options ready.

Ocean Freight

Ocean freight is generally more accommodating for shipping hand sanitizers. As long as you have all the required documentation and submit it to the carrier, most ocean freight companies will accept your shipments. However, for Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments, carriers may request that you split your goods across multiple containers.

Regardless of the shipping method chosen, you’ll need to be aware of the following information for your hand sanitizer shipments:

• UN Number: UN 1170 (for hand sanitizers containing ethanol)
• Description of Goods: ETHANOL SOLUTION
• Hazardous Class: Class 3
• Packing Group: II
• Environmentally Hazardous or Marine Pollutant: No

At FreightAmigo, our Digital Logistics Platform can help you compare quotes for both air and ocean freight, allowing you to make the best decision for your specific shipping needs.

Special Considerations for Shipping to the United States

When shipping hand sanitizers to the United States, there are additional regulatory requirements to consider:

• Hand sanitizers are classified as over-the-counter (OTC) products and are subject to FDA regulation.
• The FDA reviews active ingredients used in OTC medicines and issues an OTC Monograph, which serves as the standard for active substances.
• For most OTC products, including hand sanitizers, direct FDA approval is not needed as long as the active ingredients meet the requirements of the OTC Monograph.

While the compliance requirements for OTC products are relatively straightforward, it’s essential to ensure that your hand sanitizers meet all necessary standards before shipping to the US market.

How FreightAmigo Can Help

At FreightAmigo, we understand the complexities involved in shipping hand sanitizers and other dangerous goods. Our Digital Logistics Platform offers several features to streamline your shipping process:

• Instant quotes for air and ocean freight, allowing you to compare rates and choose the best option for your needs.
• Access to a network of reputable carriers experienced in handling dangerous goods.
• Assistance with documentation preparation to ensure compliance with international regulations.
• Real-time shipment tracking to keep you informed about your cargo’s status.
• Expert support available 24/7 to address any questions or concerns during the shipping process.

By leveraging our Digital Logistics Solution, you can navigate the challenges of shipping hand sanitizers with confidence, ensuring that your products reach their destination safely and in compliance with all relevant regulations.

Conclusion

Shipping hand sanitizers internationally requires careful attention to classification, packaging, documentation, and shipping methods. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and leveraging the support of a Digital Logistics Platform like FreightAmigo, you can successfully navigate the complexities of exporting these essential products.

Remember these key takeaways:

1. Properly classify your hand sanitizers as dangerous goods if they contain 24% or more alcohol.
2. Follow strict packaging guidelines, including using appropriate labels and ensuring upright positioning of bottles.
3. Prepare all necessary documentation, including the Dangerous Goods Packing Report, Product Technical Specifications, and Material Safety Data Sheets.
4. Consider ocean freight as a more reliable option for shipping hand sanitizers, but be prepared for potential challenges with air freight.
5. Pay attention to specific requirements when shipping to markets like the United States, ensuring compliance with FDA regulations.

With the right knowledge and support, you can efficiently ship hand sanitizers to meet global demand while ensuring compliance with international regulations. FreightAmigo is here to support you every step of the way, providing the Digital Logistics Solutions you need to succeed in today’s complex shipping environment.