Shipping Chemical Products from Cartagena to Colombo via Ocean Freight

Moving moisture-sensitive specialty chemicals demands tight-closing drums or jerricans, foil or poly liners, and drying agents inside cartons or overpacks. It is important to clearly note “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 goods, UN-rated 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. Be sure to confirm with your dangerous goods specialist or carrier whether your industrial chemicals are fully regulated, limited quantity, or exempt before selecting packaging.

Most specialty chemicals shipments need a dangerous goods declaration, the latest SDS, and complete labels and markings that align with the classification. Our team recommends including emergency contact details, handling instructions (e.g., “Keep Dry,” “Do Not Stack”), and any special approvals required by local authorities for specific Chemical products.

You may be able to consolidate different industrial chemicals, 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 are properly separated. Use segregation panels and clear labeling when combining multiple hazard classes.

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

When shipping chemicals via ocean freight, it is crucial to ensure proper packaging to prevent leaks and contamination. Additionally, compliance with international regulations such as the IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code) is necessary for hazardous materials. It is also important to verify that the receiving port in Colombo has the appropriate facilities for handling chemical products.

Shipping chemicals requires specific documentation including a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), a Bill of Lading, and customs declarations. Export permits from Colombian authorities and import permits from Sri Lankan authorities may also be needed, particularly for regulated chemical goods.

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