Shipping Chemicals from Houston to Cartagena via Ocean Freight

Transporting moisture-sensitive chemical goods necessitates tight-closing drums or jerricans, Barrier liners or overbags, and moisture absorbers inside cartons or overpacks. You should also indicate “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, tested and approved packaging must be used when shipping by road, sea, or air. The specific UN packaging code and performance level Depend 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 DG shipping paper, the latest SDS, and complete labels and markings that Match the classification. Best practice is including emergency contact details, handling instructions (e.g., “Keep Dry,” “Do Not Stack”), and any Permits required by local authorities for specific chemical goods.

You can sometimes consolidate different chemical products, but only if regulatory separation requirements are met. First review the SDS and relevant ADR/IMDG/IATA tables to ensure acids, bases, oxidizers, flammables, and other Chemical goods do not conflict. Use Separate pallets and clear labeling when combining multiple hazard classes.

Because industrial chemicals can cause significant loss if leaks occur, enhanced freight insurance is advisable. Review your policy to confirm that dangerous goods and specialty chemicals are not excluded, and that coverage Includes contamination, disposal, and emergency response costs where applicable.

The required documentation includes a bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and safety data sheets (SDS) for the chemicals being shipped. Additionally, an export permit may be necessary depending on the specific types of chemicals, and compliance with both U.S. and Colombian regulations is essential.

Yes, shipments of chemicals must comply with the regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Colombian Ministry of Health and Social Protection. This includes adhering to labeling requirements and ensuring that the chemicals are not on the list of prohibited substances in Colombia.

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.