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    What is MSDS and Why is it Important for International Shipping?

    JUL 03, 2025

    When shipping liquid products such as perfumes, cleaning agents, or other everyday liquids, did you know that many of these liquids contain hazardous chemicals that can potentially cause sparks or other dangers? This is why an important document, known as MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), is required. Let’s dive into what MSDS is and why it’s crucial for international shipping.

    What is MSDS?

    MSDS stands for Material Safety Data Sheet. It is a document that provides essential safety information about chemicals, including their chemical formula, hazardous components, handling instructions, storage and safety measures, and more. The purpose of an MSDS is to ensure that chemicals are used safely and without risk to health or safety during handling, transportation, and use.

    Why is MSDS Necessary for Shipping?

    For manufacturers or users of chemicals, creating an MSDS is essential to meet international safety standards. Without an MSDS, it’s possible that the product is not up to safety standards or is improperly manufactured. This could lead to a shipping company refusing to transport the product, whether by air or sea.

    Examples of products that require MSDS:

    • Liquids such as perfumes
    • Cleaning agents
    • Chemicals

    MSDS Requirements:

    Format: MSDS must be stored both as physical documents and in electronic format.

    Accessibility: It should be easily accessible to all who may need to view it.

    Content: MSDS follows an internationally recognized structure with 16 sections, including:

    1. Chemical information and manufacturer/supplier details
    2. Hazard identification
    3. Composition/information on ingredients
    4. First-aid measures
    5. Firefighting measures
    6. Accidental release measures
    7. Handling and storage
    8. Exposure controls/personal protection
    9. Physical and chemical properties
    10. Stability and reactivity
    11. Toxicological information
    12. Ecological information
    13. Disposal considerations
    14. Transport information
    15. Regulatory information
    16. Other important information

    Laboratory Chemicals: Any hazardous chemicals in a laboratory should have MSDS documentation for safety assurance.

    Up-to-date: MSDS must be updated regularly, typically every 5 years, to ensure that the information is current.

    Why is MSDS Important for International Shipping?

    The main goal of an MSDS is to ensure safety, especially when transporting hazardous chemicals internationally. These chemicals can pose significant risks to both people and property, so having an MSDS helps prevent accidents during the shipping process. For companies shipping products overseas, it’s crucial to ensure that they meet these safety requirements to avoid complications and delays.

    In summary, MSDS is a key document that provides crucial safety information about chemicals, ensuring that they are transported safely, especially internationally. Without it, your product may be refused for shipment. If you're planning to export chemicals or products that require an MSDS, CPLINTER offers comprehensive services to assist with both product and document handling, ensuring safe and smooth international shipping. For more assistance or consultation on international shipping, feel free to contact CPL: Phone: 02-519-4426, 063-519-4426, 091-519-4426 Line: @cplinter Visit our website: www.cplinter.com

    If you're interested in exporting goods internationally, we can help you verify the product details before shipping. Please fill out the form for our team to contact you or chat directly via LINE ID: @cplinter

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