What are the marking requirements for hazardous materials packages under 49 CFR 172.300?

Short answer

The marking requirements for hazardous materials packages under 49 CFR 172.300 include:

1. Proper shipping name and identification number

2. Identification numbers on bulk packagings

3. Special permit packagings marked with DOT-SP followed by the special permit number

The rule says

"Each person who offers a hazardous material for transportation shall mark each package, freight container, and transport vehicle containing the hazardous material in the manner required by this subpart." (49 CFR 172.300(a))

"Except as otherwise provided by this subchapter, each person who offers a hazardous material for transportation in a non-bulk packaging must mark the package with the proper shipping name and identification number (preceded by UN, NA or ID, as appropriate)" (49 CFR 172.301(a)(1))

"Except as otherwise provided in this subpart, no person may offer for transportation or transport a hazardous material in a bulk packaging unless the packaging is marked as required by 172.332 with the identification number specified for the material in the 172.101 table" (49 CFR 172.302(a))

In plain English

The marking requirements for hazardous materials packages are critical for safe transportation and handling. The regulations require that each package be marked with the proper shipping name and identification number, and that bulk packagings be marked with identification numbers on each side and end. Special permit packagings must be marked with the special permit number. These markings help ensure that handlers and responders can quickly identify the hazards associated with a package and take appropriate action. In practice, this means that shippers and carriers must carefully follow the marking requirements to avoid errors or omissions that could lead to accidents or fines.

What to do

• Verify the proper shipping name and identification number for each hazardous material
• Ensure that non-bulk packagings are marked with the required information
• Mark bulk packagings with identification numbers on each side and end
• Use special permit packagings marked with the correct special permit number