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    What Are SDS and MSDS? Essential Documents for Shipping Chemicals and Dangerous Goods

    OCT 20, 2026

    Key Takeaways


    • SDS, or Safety Data Sheet, is a document containing safety information about chemicals or chemical products. It is now the more standardized term, while MSDS is the older term that is still commonly encountered.
    • SDS follows a standardized 16-section structure, covering everything from hazards, composition, first aid, and handling to transportation information.
    • Having an SDS does not necessarily mean that a product is Dangerous Goods (DG). Conversely, a product's non-DG status does not mean that a carrier will not request an SDS.
    • Section 14 is particularly important for Logistics because it may contain information such as the UN Number, Proper Shipping Name, Hazard Class, and Packing Group, as applicable.
    • An SDS is not an export permit or a Dangerous Goods Declaration, and it does not automatically authorize a product to be shipped by air, sea, or road. The rules for each mode and the relevant carrier must be checked separately.


    What Is an SDS?


    SDS stands for Safety Data Sheet. It is a document that provides safety information about chemicals or products containing chemical ingredients.


    The information in an SDS helps relevant parties understand:


    • What hazards the product presents
    • What its key ingredients are
    • How it should be stored
    • What first aid should be provided in the event of exposure
    • How spills or leaks should be handled
    • What protective equipment is required
    • What physical and chemical properties it has
    • Whether any transportation requirements apply


    It is therefore a useful document for many parties, including:


    • Manufacturer
    • Importer
    • Exporter
    • Warehouse
    • Freight Forwarder
    • Airline
    • Shipping Line
    • Carrier
    • Dangerous Goods Specialist


    It is particularly useful when a product is a:


    • Chemical
    • Liquid
    • Powder
    • Adhesive
    • Paint
    • Cleaning Product
    • Solvent
    • Aerosol
    • Battery-related Product
    • Industrial Material


    What Is the Difference Between SDS and MSDS?


    MSDS stands for:


    Material Safety Data Sheet


    It is a long-established term for a document containing chemical safety information.


    SDS stands for:


    Safety Data Sheet


    It is the term used in a more standardized system under the GHS, or Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals.


    Today, the term


    SDS


    is therefore more commonly used than


    MSDS


    However, the term MSDS is still frequently encountered in Logistics, for example:


    • “Could you send me the MSDS?”
    • “The carrier requires the MSDS.”
    • “Does this product have an MSDS?”


    In many cases, the service provider is referring to the SDS for that product.


    Why Did the Terminology Change from MSDS to SDS?


    The key reason is to make Hazard Communication information more consistent in format.


    SDS uses a standardized structure of 16 Sections.


    This helps users in different countries find important information in the same section of a document.


    For example, if you need transportation information, you can go directly to:


    Section 14


    rather than searching through documents whose layouts may vary significantly from one manufacturer to another.


    How Many Sections Does an SDS Have?


    A standard-format SDS contains 16 Sections.


    Section 1: Identification


    This section identifies the product and supplier, including:


    • Product Name
    • Recommended Use
    • Supplier / Manufacturer
    • Contact Information
    • Emergency Telephone Number


    It helps confirm whether the SDS belongs to the same product as the one intended for shipment.


    Section 2: Hazard Identification


    This is an important section that describes hazard classifications, such as:


    • Flammable
    • Corrosive
    • Toxic
    • Irritant
    • Environmental Hazard


    It may also include:


    • Signal Word
    • Hazard Statement
    • Precautionary Statement
    • Pictogram


    as required by the applicable system.


    This section gives service providers an initial understanding of the types of hazards associated with the product.


    Section 3: Composition / Information on Ingredients


    This section lists the product's ingredients.


    It may include information such as:


    • Chemical Name
    • CAS Number
    • Concentration


    depending on the product type and applicable requirements.


    This information is particularly important for products such as:


    • Mixture
    • Chemical Preparation
    • Cleaning Solution
    • Adhesive
    • Paint
    • Cosmetic Raw Material


    A trade name alone may not be sufficient to assess the hazards.


    Section 4: First-aid Measures


    This section explains first-aid measures in the event of exposure, such as:


    • Inhalation
    • Skin contact
    • Eye contact
    • Ingestion


    It is useful in warehouses and in the event of an incident during transportation.


    Section 5: Fire-fighting Measures


    This section provides firefighting information, such as:


    • Suitable Extinguishing Media
    • Specific Hazard
    • Protective Equipment


    It is important for products that pose a fire risk.


    Section 6: Accidental Release Measures


    This section provides guidance for situations such as:


    • Spills or leaks
    • Broken containers
    • Chemical leakage


    It may contain information about:


    • Personal Precaution
    • Environmental Precaution
    • Spill Cleanup


    This information is important for warehouses and transport emergency response.


    Section 7: Handling and Storage


    This section specifies requirements for:


    • Handling
    • Storage
    • Segregation
    • Temperature Condition
    • Ventilation


    depending on the product.


    It helps warehouses or shippers plan appropriate storage before transportation.


    Section 8: Exposure Controls / Personal Protection


    This section provides information about exposure controls, such as:


    • Occupational Exposure Limit
    • Respiratory Protection
    • Gloves
    • Eye Protection
    • Protective Clothing


    Section 9: Physical and Chemical Properties


    This section is particularly useful when assessing transportation risks.


    It may include information such as:


    • Physical State
    • Color
    • Odor
    • pH
    • Boiling Point
    • Flash Point
    • Vapor Pressure
    • Density
    • Solubility


    depending on the product's properties.


    Why Is Flash Point Important?


    Flash Point is one of the key data points for liquids that may be flammable.


    Examples include:


    • Solvent
    • Paint
    • Perfume
    • Alcohol-based Product
    • Cleaning Agent


    If the Flash Point falls within a range that meets the criteria under the applicable Dangerous Goods Regulation, the product may be classified as a Flammable Liquid.


    However, it must be assessed together with the actual transportation rules. Classification should not be determined from the Flash Point value alone.


    Section 10: Stability and Reactivity


    This section provides information such as:


    • Chemical Stability
    • Possibility of Hazardous Reaction
    • Conditions to Avoid
    • Incompatible Materials


    It helps assess whether a substance needs to be segregated from other products during storage or transportation.


    Section 11: Toxicological Information


    This section describes potential health effects and toxicity.


    It is useful for assessing the hazards of a substance or mixture.


    Section 12: Ecological Information


    This section provides information about environmental effects, such as:


    • Aquatic Toxicity
    • Persistence
    • Bioaccumulation


    In transportation, this information may be relevant to assessing Environmental Hazards or Marine Pollutants under the applicable rules.


    Section 13: Disposal Considerations


    This section provides information on the appropriate disposal of:


    • Product
    • Residue
    • Contaminated Packaging


    Section 14: Transport Information


    This is a section that Freight Forwarders and Dangerous Goods Specialists often pay particular attention to.


    It may contain information such as:


    • UN Number
    • UN Proper Shipping Name
    • Transport Hazard Class
    • Packing Group
    • Environmental Hazard
    • Marine Pollutant
    • Special Precaution


    depending on the product and applicable regulations.


    However, keep in mind that Section 14 information should not be used as a substitute for checking the Dangerous Goods Regulations actually applied by the carrier.


    Section 15: Regulatory Information


    This section identifies laws or regulations applicable to the product.


    However, regulations can vary by country.


    An SDS issued in one country therefore does not necessarily cover the import requirements of every country.


    Section 16: Other Information


    This section may include:


    • Revision Date
    • Version
    • Abbreviation
    • Reference
    • Additional Information


    It is useful for checking which SDS version is the manufacturer's current version.


    How Is Section 14 Important for Transportation?


    In Logistics, Section 14 is often used as an initial reference for checking transport classification.


    Examples of information that may appear include:


    UN Number: UN 1993


    Proper Shipping Name: Flammable liquid, n.o.s.


    Class: 3


    Packing Group: II


    If information like this appears, the product may qualify as Dangerous Goods and must be handled in accordance with the rules for the selected mode of transport.


    However, the classification must be verified against the actual product and current regulations.


    What Is a UN Number?


    A UN Number is a four-digit number used to identify Dangerous Goods or relevant groups of substances in the transportation system.


    An example of its format is:


    • UN xxxx


    UN Numbers play a role in:


    • Classification
    • Documentation
    • Packaging
    • Labeling
    • Marking
    • Carrier Acceptance


    However, not every product has a UN Number.


    If an SDS states:


    Not regulated for transport


    this may mean that the product is not classified as Dangerous Goods under the regulations referenced in the document.


    The mode of transport and the latest information must still be checked.


    What Is a Proper Shipping Name?


    A Proper Shipping Name (PSN) is the transportation name specified under the applicable Dangerous Goods Regulations.


    It does not necessarily match the:


    • Brand Name
    • Product Name
    • Marketing Name


    For example, a product may be sold under the name:


    ABC Cleaning Solution


    However, if it is DG, its transportation name may be a different Proper Shipping Name determined by its classification.


    Therefore, DG documentation must use the name required by the applicable rules, rather than substituting the marketing name.


    What Is a Hazard Class?


    Dangerous Goods are divided into Hazard Classes according to the type of risk they present.


    Examples of the main groups include:


    • Explosives
    • Gases
    • Flammable Liquids
    • Flammable Solids
    • Oxidizing Substances
    • Toxic / Infectious Substances
    • Radioactive Material
    • Corrosive Substances
    • Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods


    Each class has different requirements for:


    • Packaging Requirement
    • Label
    • Handling
    • Segregation


    Therefore, not all types of DG can be shipped using the same procedures.


    What Is a Packing Group?


    Some Hazard Classes use a Packing Group to indicate the degree of danger.


    The commonly used categories are:


    • Packing Group I
    • Packing Group II
    • Packing Group III


    These reflect levels of danger under the applicable system.


    Packing Group can affect Packaging Requirements and Quantity Limits under certain transport regulations.


    However, not every Dangerous Goods class has a Packing Group.


    What Is a Marine Pollutant?


    Some Dangerous Goods may be classified as Marine Pollutants for sea transportation.


    If a product meets the criteria, additional requirements may apply to:


    • Marking
    • Documentation
    • Handling


    under the relevant maritime transportation regulations.


    Therefore, products shipped by Sea Freight must be checked against the requirements specific to sea transport, rather than relying solely on air regulations.


    Does Having an SDS Mean a Product Is Dangerous Goods?


    No.


    This is a common misconception.


    Many products have an SDS to provide safety information but are not classified as Dangerous Goods for transportation.


    For example, a product may present:


    • Hazards to users
    • Handling Precautions


    without meeting the transport classification criteria.


    The SDS's Section 14 and the applicable regulations must therefore be checked.


    In short:


    Having an SDS ≠ Always DG


    If a Product Is Not Dangerous Goods, Why Does the Carrier Still Request an SDS?


    The carrier needs information to verify that the product does not qualify as DG.


    For example, if a shipper declares the product as:


    Cleaning Liquid


    the carrier cannot determine from the name alone whether it:


    • Contains Alcohol
    • Has a particular Flash Point
    • Is Corrosive
    • Contains hazardous substances


    The SDS helps the carrier review the commodity before accepting the shipment.


    In some cases, the carrier may also request:


    • SDS
    • Non-DG Declaration
    • Product Specification


    depending on its policy.


    Do All Liquids Need an SDS?


    That should not be assumed.


    The word


    Liquid


    only describes the physical form.


    It does not indicate whether the product is a chemical hazard or DG.


    Examples include:


    • Drinking Water
    • Perfume
    • Solvent
    • Shampoo
    • Cleaning Chemical


    All are liquids, but their transport classifications can differ significantly.


    The carrier needs to know what the product is, not merely that it is a liquid.


    Are All Powders Dangerous Goods?


    No.


    Powder is only a physical form.


    Examples include:


    • Food Powder
    • Cosmetic Powder
    • Chemical Powder
    • Metal Powder


    These can have different hazards.


    Some powders may:


    • Be flammable
    • React with other substances
    • Be oxidizers


    while others are General Cargo.


    The composition and SDS must be checked for each product.


    Is Perfume Dangerous Goods?


    Many perfumes contain alcohol or flammable substances, so they may qualify as Flammable Liquids for transportation.


    However, classification must be based on the actual product, including:


    • Composition
    • Flash Point
    • Packaging
    • Quantity


    Do not use the term


    Cosmetic


    to conclude that a product is General Cargo.


    This is particularly important for Air Freight or Air Courier shipments.


    Do Sprays and Aerosols Need an SDS?


    Aerosols present risks because their containers are pressurized and they may contain flammable substances.


    Carriers therefore often need to review them carefully.


    Information that may be required includes:


    • SDS
    • Product Specification
    • Gas / Propellant
    • Flammability
    • Can Size


    before Booking.


    What Should Be Checked for Paint and Adhesives?


    Paint and Adhesives may contain solvents or ingredients that make them Dangerous Goods.


    The following should be checked, as applicable:


    • SDS
    • Flash Point
    • UN Number
    • Hazard Class
    • Packing Group


    Even if two products are both called “glue,” differences in their formulas can result in different classifications.


    Are Cleaning Products Dangerous Goods?


    It depends on the formula.


    Some cleaning products are General Cargo, while others may contain:


    • Corrosive Substance
    • Alcohol
    • Solvent
    • Oxidizing Chemical


    The SDS must therefore be checked.


    A product name such as


    Multi-purpose Cleaner


    is not enough for a Freight Forwarder to confirm that it is Non-DG.


    Do Cosmetics Need an SDS?


    Carriers may request an SDS for certain cosmetics, particularly products such as:


    • Perfume
    • Nail Polish
    • Aerosol
    • Alcohol-based Product
    • Flammable Liquid


    Other cosmetics may not qualify as DG.


    Each product must be assessed individually.


    Can an SDS Be Used to Determine Whether a Battery Is Dangerous Goods?


    Batteries are subject to specific regulations, and more information than the SDS alone may be required.


    For example, Lithium Batteries must be checked for:


    • Battery Type
    • Watt-hour Rating
    • Lithium Content, as applicable
    • Configuration
    • UN Classification
    • Test Requirement
    • Packaging


    Other specific documents may also be required, such as test information under the applicable requirements.


    Therefore, an SDS is not the only document used to determine whether a battery shipment can be accepted.


    How Is an SDS Used for Air Freight?


    Air transportation has strict Dangerous Goods requirements.


    Before accepting cargo, a service provider may review the SDS to assess:


    • UN Number
    • Proper Shipping Name
    • Class
    • Packing Group
    • Flash Point
    • Quantity


    It must then check whether the shipment falls under requirements for:


    • Passenger Aircraft
    • Cargo Aircraft
    • Limited / Excepted Quantity, as permitted by the rules
    • Packaging Instruction


    or whether other restrictions apply.


    Requirements must be checked against the Air Dangerous Goods Regulations and the carrier's policy in effect on the Booking date.


    Suggested Internal Link: What Is Air Freight? What Types of Goods Are Suitable for Air Transportation?


    Do Air Couriers Accept Dangerous Goods?


    Some couriers accept certain types of DG, subject to specified:


    • Approved Account
    • Route
    • Service
    • Quantity
    • Packaging


    Having a standard courier account does not mean that every type of chemical can be shipped.


    A courier's policy may be stricter than the minimum requirements of the regulations.


    Pre-checking is therefore necessary before Booking.


    Suggested Internal Link: What Is Air Courier? How Does It Differ from Air Cargo, and Which Products Is It Suitable For?


    How Is an SDS Used for Sea Freight?


    For Sea Freight, SDS information is used to assess classification under the relevant Maritime Dangerous Goods rules.


    If the product is DG, information such as the following may be required:


    • UN Number
    • Proper Shipping Name
    • Class
    • Packing Group
    • Marine Pollutant
    • Flash Point


    This information is used to prepare documentation and plan stowage / segregation in accordance with the rules.


    A DG sea shipment should not be delivered to the port before the Shipping Line has accepted the Booking.


    Is an SDS Used for Road Freight?


    For chemical road shipments, SDS information may be needed to assess:


    • Hazard
    • Packaging
    • Vehicle Requirement
    • Route
    • Documentation


    This is particularly important for cross-border routes, where rules can differ between countries.


    The route requirements should be checked from the outset. Air or sea requirements should not automatically be applied to road transport.


    Is an SDS a Dangerous Goods Declaration?


    No.


    An SDS is a document containing product safety information.


    A Dangerous Goods Declaration is a transport document used to declare Dangerous Goods under the applicable regulations.


    If a shipment is DG, specific documents may be required, such as:


    • Shipper's Declaration for Air, as applicable
    • Dangerous Goods Transport Document for Sea, as applicable


    Therefore:


    Having an SDS does not mean that the DG documentation is complete.


    Is an SDS an Import Permit or Export Permit?


    No.


    An SDS explains the product and its hazards.


    However, certain chemicals may also require:


    • Import License
    • Export License
    • Hazardous Substance Registration
    • Controlled Chemical Permit


    The following must therefore be checked separately:


    Transport Regulation + Product Regulation


    Suggested Internal Link: What Are Prohibited and Controlled Goods for Import and Export?


    Who Should Issue an SDS?


    In general, the SDS should come from the manufacturer, supplier, or party responsible for the product under the applicable legal system.


    The document should match the actual shipment in terms of:


    • Product Name
    • Manufacturer
    • Formula / Composition
    • Version


    Shippers should not use an SDS for a product that is merely “similar” as a substitute.


    For example, Product A and Product B may be cleaning liquids from the same brand.


    However, if their:


    • Formula
    • Concentration


    differ, their transport classifications may also differ.


    Can an SDS from Another Manufacturer Be Used Instead?


    It should not be.


    Even if the product name or main ingredient appears similar, the following may differ:


    • Composition
    • Concentration
    • Additive
    • Physical Property


    Use an SDS that matches the actual manufacturer and product version.


    Does an SDS Need to Be in English?


    For international transportation, an English SDS helps the following parties review the information:


    • Carrier
    • Airline
    • Shipping Line
    • Overseas Agent


    Some countries or laws may impose additional language requirements.


    It is therefore advisable to check the requirements of the:


    • Origin country
    • Destination
    • Carrier


    before shipping.


    Does an SDS Have an Expiration Date?


    A general rule stating that


    “An SDS must not be more than 5 years old”


    should not be applied to every country and product.


    An SDS does not have a single globally standardized expiration period like a passport.


    The important point is that the document must be the Current Version and its information must remain accurate.


    The manufacturer should review or update the SDS when significant changes occur, such as changes to:


    • Composition
    • Hazard Classification
    • Regulation
    • New Safety Information


    Some carriers or countries may require an SDS to have been issued or updated within a specified period for a shipment to be accepted.


    The current policy of the actual service provider should therefore be checked.


    How Can You Tell Whether an SDS Is the Latest Version?


    Check Section 16 or the Revision Information section.


    It often contains:


    • Issue Date
    • Revision Date
    • Version Number


    Then confirm with the Supplier / Manufacturer that no newer version is available.


    If an SDS is several years old and the chemical may have undergone a formula change, request an updated document before Booking.


    Does an SDS Need a Signature or Company Stamp?


    This depends on the:


    • Regulation
    • Carrier
    • Product
    • Country


    A standard SDS does not mean that the same stamp format is required worldwide.


    Some providers may have additional document requirements to verify the manufacturer.


    Check before Booking rather than adding a stamp without a specific requirement.


    If Section 14 Says “Not Regulated,” Does That Mean the Product Can Definitely Be Shipped?


    Not necessarily.


    Check whether:


    • The SDS is the Current Version
    • The product matches the SDS
    • The regulation referenced in Section 14 applies to the intended mode of transport
    • The carrier has additional policies
    • Quantity / Packaging affects the requirements


    Some carriers may request further review even if the SDS states Non-DG.


    Therefore:


    Not Regulated ≠ Carrier Automatically Accepts


    What Should You Do if the SDS Does Not Include Section 14?


    Request an SDS in a standard format with complete information from the Supplier / Manufacturer.


    Documents containing only:


    • Product Specification
    • Certificate of Analysis
    • Ingredient List


    are not SDS documents and cannot always be used as substitutes.


    If the provider requires transport classification information, the manufacturer should issue the appropriate document.


    What Is the Difference Between a COA and an SDS?


    A COA, or Certificate of Analysis, focuses on quality test results or batch specifications.


    Examples include:


    • Purity
    • Moisture
    • pH
    • Assay


    An SDS, by contrast, focuses on:


    • Hazard
    • Safety
    • Handling
    • Transportation


    Therefore:


    COA ≠ SDS


    even though some information may overlap.


    What Is the Difference Between a TDS and an SDS?


    A TDS, or Technical Data Sheet, provides information about a product's technical performance, such as:


    • Application
    • Property
    • Performance
    • Recommended Use


    An SDS focuses on safety and hazard information.


    Therefore, a TDS should not be used as a substitute for an SDS when the carrier requests a Safety Data Sheet.


    How Should an SDS and Product Specification Be Used Together?


    For some Logistics shipments, both documents may be needed:


    SDS


    to review Safety / Hazards


    and


    Product Specification


    to review:


    • Physical Product
    • Model
    • Use
    • Technical Detail


    This is particularly useful for new products or products whose classification is unclear.


    Using information from multiple sources helps reduce the risk of misidentifying a commodity.


    Must Dangerous Goods Be Packaged Differently from General Cargo?


    In general, DG must comply with the packaging requirements of the applicable regulations.


    Requirements may cover:


    • UN Specification Packaging
    • Inner Packaging
    • Outer Packaging
    • Quantity Limit
    • Closure
    • Absorbent Material
    • Pressure Requirement


    depending on the product.


    A chemical classified as DG should not simply be placed in a regular box and shipped with an SDS as the only document.


    The packaging must also meet the requirements for that classification.


    Are DG Labels the Same as Shipping Marks?


    No.


    Dangerous Goods Marks / Labels communicate hazards under the transport regulations.


    Shipping Marks identify a shipment, for example:


    • Consignee
    • PO Number
    • Carton Number
    • Destination


    A DG shipment may need both types.


    Suggested Internal Link: What Are Shipping Marks? Why Are They Important for International Shipments?


    When Should Chemical Goods Be Declared to a Freight Forwarder?


    They should be declared before requesting a Quote and before Booking.


    Do not wait until the cargo arrives at the warehouse before sending the SDS.


    DG status can affect:


    • Carrier Selection
    • Route
    • Freight Rate
    • Surcharge
    • Packaging
    • Documentation
    • Transit Time


    A General Cargo quote may no longer apply if the product is later found to be DG.


    What Information Should Be Sent with an SDS to Request a Quote?


    Prepare the following:


    • Product Name
    • SDS
    • Manufacturer
    • Number of Packages
    • Packaging Type
    • Net Quantity per Package
    • Gross Weight
    • Dimension
    • Origin
    • Destination
    • Mode of Transport
    • UN Number, if known
    • Hazard Class, if known
    • Packing Group, if applicable
    • Flash Point, as applicable
    • Cargo Ready Date


    This information helps the provider check carrier acceptance before issuing a quote.


    Steps to Take Before Shipping Chemicals Internationally


    Step 1: Request the SDS from the Manufacturer


    It must match the actual product and formula.


    Step 2: Check Sections 2, 9, and 14


    Review the Hazard and Transportation Information.


    Step 3: Have a Specialist Review the DG Classification


    Do not make a decision based on a single sentence in the SDS if the product belongs to a higher-risk category.


    Step 4: Check Carrier Acceptance


    Airlines, Shipping Lines, and couriers may have different restrictions.


    Step 5: Check the Packaging


    If the product is DG, the packaging must comply with the applicable regulations.


    Step 6: Prepare the Transport Documents


    Prepare documents according to the mode of transport and classification.


    Step 7: Check Import / Export Regulations


    Chemicals may require additional permits that are separate from DG requirements.


    Common Mistakes Related to SDS / MSDS


    • Assuming that all liquids are DG
    • Assuming that a product with an SDS must be DG
    • Assuming that an SDS is a shipping permit
    • Using an SDS for a different product version
    • Using an SDS from another manufacturer
    • Using an old document without checking the Current Version
    • Using a COA instead of an SDS
    • Using a TDS instead of an SDS
    • Not checking Section 14
    • Not declaring chemicals before requesting a quote
    • Booking as General Cargo when the product is DG
    • Using ordinary packaging for DG
    • Assuming that if Sea Freight accepts a product, Air Freight must also accept it
    • Assuming that if one carrier accepts a product, all other carriers must accept it
    • Concealing information about Batteries / Liquids / Chemicals
    • Using “Cosmetic” or “Sample” instead of the actual product description


    Checklist Before Sending an SDS to a Freight Forwarder


    Check that:


    • Product Name matches the product
    • Manufacturer matches
    • The SDS contains 16 Sections
    • The document is the Current Version
    • Revision Date has been checked
    • Composition is correct
    • Section 2 has been reviewed
    • Section 9 has been reviewed
    • Section 14 has been reviewed
    • Whether a UN Number is listed has been checked
    • Whether a Proper Shipping Name is listed has been checked
    • Whether a Hazard Class is listed has been checked
    • Whether a Packing Group is listed has been checked
    • Whether a Flash Point is listed has been checked
    • Whether Marine Pollutant status is listed has been checked
    • Product Quantity is clear
    • Packaging is clear
    • Mode of Transport is clear
    • Origin–Destination is clear


    Frequently Asked Questions About SDS / MSDS (FAQ)


    Are SDS and MSDS the Same?


    They serve similar purposes, but SDS is the more standardized name and format under the current Hazard Communication system, while MSDS is the older term that remains in common use.


    How Many Sections Does an SDS Have?


    A standard SDS has 16 Sections, covering everything from Identification, Hazard, and Composition to Transport and Regulatory Information.


    Does Having an SDS Mean a Product Is Dangerous Goods?


    Not necessarily. Many products have an SDS but are not classified as DG for transportation. Section 14 and the applicable regulations must be checked.


    Do Non-DG Products Need an SDS?


    A carrier may request an SDS to verify that a product is Non-DG, particularly for chemicals, liquids, or powders whose status cannot be determined from the product name alone.


    Is an SDS a Dangerous Goods Declaration?


    No. An SDS provides safety information, while a Dangerous Goods Declaration is a transport document for DG under the applicable regulations.


    Does an SDS Expire After 5 Years?


    There is no universal rule that every SDS expires after 5 years. Use the Current Version and check that the Hazard, Composition, and Regulation information remains up to date, as well as the requirements of the actual carrier.


    Do All Liquids Need an SDS?


    Not necessarily. It depends on the product and carrier, but SDS documents are often requested for chemical products or goods whose hazards are unclear.


    Which SDS Section Is Most Important for Transportation?


    Section 14 is important for transportation, but it should be reviewed together with Sections 2 and 9 and any other relevant information.


    Are the Same Rules Used for Shipping Chemicals by Air and Sea?


    No. Dangerous Goods rules differ by mode, so the Air, Sea, or Road regulations and carrier policies must be checked separately.


    Can a Freight Forwarder Help Review an SDS?


    A Freight Forwarder can help review the information and coordinate with the carrier within the scope of its services. However, classification must be based on the actual product and the Dangerous Goods Regulations in effect.


    Chemical Transportation and SDS Review Services by CPL INTER


    CPL INTER provides international transportation services for:


    • Air Cargo
    • Sea Freight
    • Road Freight
    • Cross-border Transportation


    It also coordinates preliminary information checks for shipments involving:


    • Liquid
    • Powder
    • Chemical
    • Battery
    • Dangerous Goods
    • Special Cargo


    subject to the route and carrier acceptance.


    Before requesting a quote, provide:


    • Product name and photos
    • Current SDS
    • Product Specification
    • Number of Packages
    • Packaging Type
    • Net / Gross Weight
    • Dimension
    • Origin and destination countries
    • Preferred mode of transport
    • UN Number / Hazard Class, as applicable


    This allows the CPL INTER team to review Logistics information and coordinate carrier requirements before Booking.


    Dangerous Goods Regulations and carrier policies may be updated. Always check the latest requirements with the carrier and relevant authorities before the actual shipment.


    Tel: 02-519-4426 / 091-519-4426
    LINE: @cplinter


    Written by: CPL Inter Logistics Operations Team, specialists in international freight transportation and customs clearance, with more than 15 years of experience and a quality management system certified to the international ISO 9001:2015 standard.

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