Shipping Chemicals from Bogota to Chicago via Ocean Freight

Transporting moisture-sensitive chemical goods demands tight-closing drums or jerricans, foil or poly liners, and moisture absorbers inside cartons or overpacks. Shippers should also indicate “Keep Dry” on labels and booking notes and not use open or vented storage and transit equipment where humidity can build up.

For most regulated chemical products, tested and approved packaging is mandatory 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. Verify with your dangerous goods specialist or carrier whether your Specialty chemicals are fully regulated, limited quantity, or exempt before selecting packaging.

Most industrial chemicals shipments must include a dangerous goods declaration, the latest SDS, and complete labels and markings that align with the classification. Best practice is including emergency contact details, handling instructions (e.g., “Keep Dry,” “Do Not Stack”), and any licenses required by local authorities for specific chemical goods.

You can sometimes consolidate different chemical products, but only if they are compatible. First review the SDS and relevant ADR/IMDG/IATA tables to ensure acids, bases, oxidizers, flammables, and other chemical products do not conflict. Use physical barriers and clear labeling when combining multiple hazard classes.

Because industrial chemicals can cause significant loss if leaks occur, specialized cargo coverage is advisable. Always review your policy to confirm that dangerous goods and specialty chemicals are not excluded, and that coverage covers contamination, disposal, and emergency response costs where applicable.

When shipping chemicals, it is essential to ensure that all products are properly packaged and labeled according to international regulations. Special attention should be paid to the compatibility of chemicals with packaging materials and the need for temperature control during transit. Additionally, hazardous materials may require specific handling procedures and equipment during loading and unloading at ports.

Shipping chemicals from Bogota to Chicago requires several key documents, including a Bill of Lading, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and a commercial invoice. Additionally, an Import Declaration must be completed for U.S. Customs, and compliance with both Colombian export regulations and U.S. regulations for chemical imports must be ensured.

DNA utilizes partnered facilities in key logistics hubs, including locations near important ports for strategic storage and fulfillment.

You’re invited to take the DNA “One Test Run Challenge” with a single shipment so we can demonstrate our visibility, reliability, and partnership-focused approach.

DNA Supply Chain offers ocean freight (FCL and LCL), air freight, ground transportation (domestic and cross-border trucking), customs brokerage, and warehousing & distribution, all supported by our SAMMIE visibility platform and dedicated Client Success Officers.