Shipping Chemicals from Antwerp to Long Beach via Ocean Freight

Transporting moisture-sensitive specialty chemicals Requires tight-closing drums or jerricans, foil or poly liners, and Desiccants inside cartons or overpacks. Shippers should also Specify “Keep Dry” on labels and booking notes and Avoid open or vented storage and transit equipment where humidity can build up.

For most regulated chemical products, UN-rated packaging Is required when shipping by road, sea, or air. The specific UN packaging code and performance level are based on the product’s hazard class and packing group shown on the SDS. Always confirm with your dangerous goods specialist or carrier whether your industrial chemicals are fully regulated, limited quantity, or exempt before selecting packaging.

Most industrial chemicals shipments need a Transport document, the latest SDS, and complete labels and markings that align with the classification. We recommend including emergency contact details, handling instructions (e.g., “Keep Dry,” “Do Not Stack”), and any licenses required by local authorities for specific Chemical products.

You can sometimes consolidate different industrial chemicals, but only if Segregation rules are followed. First review the SDS and relevant ADR/IMDG/IATA tables to ensure acids, bases, oxidizers, flammables, and other chemical products Are not stored or loaded together. Use physical barriers and clear labeling when combining multiple hazard classes.

Because industrial chemicals can cause environmental damage if leaks occur, Additional cargo insurance is advisable. Always review your policy to confirm that dangerous goods and Chemical goods are not excluded, and that coverage covers contamination, disposal, and emergency response costs where applicable.

When shipping chemicals, it is crucial to ensure that they are packaged according to international regulations, such as IMDG (International Maritime Dangerous Goods) Code. Proper labeling and documentation are required to identify hazardous materials and ensure safe handling during transit. Additionally, the cargo should be stowed in a manner that prevents contamination and minimizes the risk of leaks or spills.

Shipments of chemicals from Belgium to the United States must comply with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, including the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Importers must also ensure that the chemicals meet the requirements set forth by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and provide necessary documentation, such as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and import permits, if applicable.

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