HAZMAT for Amazon: Why Documentation is Important

While Amazon takes safety seriously, it does permit the sale of certain hazardous classes via FBA. These permitted classes include:

• Solids that can ignite or catch fire;
• Flammable liquids;
• Combustible Gases;
• Non-flammable and non-toxic gases;
• Oxidizers;
• Organic peroxides;
• Toxic substances;
• Corrosive substances;
• Various other hazardous items like lithium batteries.
  

Note: It’s important to note that all permitted HAZMAT products are categorized. You can find a comprehensive list of these items on Seller Central.

What HAZMAT Categories Cannot Be Sold Through FBA?

While Amazon strives to accommodate a wide range of products, it draws a line at certain HAZMAT categories due to their high-risk nature. These include:

• Explosive substances;
• Toxic gases;
• Materials that become dangerous when wet;
• Materials prone to spontaneous combustion;
• Substances with infectious characteristics;
• Radioactive materials.
  

What Is HAZMAT Documentation?

HAZMAT documentation refers to essential documents that need to be submitted to Amazon to obtain approval to sell HAZMAT products through FBA. Sellers are only permitted to sell these items once their documentation has been approved. Failure to submit the required documentation and obtain approval will result in Amazon withholding the delivery process. The aim of this documentation is to make sure anyone shipping or handling HAZMAT products does it safely.

Why Is HAZMAT Documentation Important in Shipping and Handling?

As mentioned above, FBA sellers can only sell HAZMAT products after they provide the necessary documentation. This documentation is especially important during the shipping and handling process due to the following reasons:

Ensures Regulatory Compliance

One of the primary reasons why HAZMAT documentation is vital on Amazon is to meet regulatory compliance. If you’re in the US, shipping hazardous materials involves navigating a complex web of regulations imposed by various authorities like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR), Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), and Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. Properly completed HAZMAT documentation demonstrates compliance with these regulations, ensuring that the shipment meets all necessary safety standards and legal requirements.

Ensures Safe Transportation

The safety of both the people involved in the shipping process and the general public is paramount when dealing with hazardous materials. Accurate HAZMAT documentation provides essential information about the nature of the materials being shipped, including their potential hazards and recommended handling procedures. This knowledge enables carriers, handlers, and emergency responders to take appropriate precautions, reducing the risk of accidents, spills, or other dangerous incidents during transportation.

Minimizes Liability Risks

For sellers on Amazon, HAZMAT documentation helps minimize liability risks associated with shipping hazardous materials. By ensuring all necessary documentation is in place, sellers can demonstrate their commitment to safety and compliance, reducing the likelihood of legal issues or financial penalties. Adequate documentation also provides a clear paper trail, enabling traceability in the event of an incident, and helps protect sellers from unfounded claims.

Streamlines Shipping Processes

Efficient HAZMAT documentation facilitates smoother shipping operations on Amazon. Clear and concise instructions provided in the documentation help shipping personnel understand the nature of the materials and handle them appropriately. This streamlined approach minimizes delays, prevents bottlenecks, and ensures timely deliveries, all of which contribute to customer satisfaction and a positive shopping experience.

What Documents Should You Submit to Amazon?

To ensure compliance and prevent potential issues, it is advisable to take a proactive approach when dealing with HAZMAT products. Instead of waiting for your product to be flagged or your listing to be deactivated, consider submitting the following documents when you list your product for sale:

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

The SDS, sometimes referred to as the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), is a vital document for products that are chemicals or otherwise classified as hazardous, but do not relate to batteries. It’s typically supplied by the product manufacturers and offers crucial information regarding the handling, storage, and shipment of such products. Furthermore, the SDS guides people on how to react to a spillage or properly dispose of the product if necessary.

Exemption Sheet

This document is necessary for products requiring batteries to operate, irrespective of whether the batteries come with the product or the product needs to be plugged in. This also applies to products that are batteries themselves.

How to Upload An SDS and Exemption Sheet on Amazin

To upload an SDS and Exemption sheet on Amazon, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Log into Seller Central and navigate to the Manage Dangerous Goods Classification page 

Step 2: Click on Upload Document.

Step 3: Upload your SDS or your Exemption Sheet so that the Amazon HAZMAT reviews process begins.

Step 4: After the file is uploaded, it will be reviewed by the Dangerous and Goods Team. The Amazon HAZMAT review process will take 2 business days to be completed.

Summary

It’s crucial for Amazon sellers to understand and comply with the HAZMAT goods regulations, whether it’s about what can be sold, what cannot be, or how to ensure all the right documentation is in place. By diligently following these guidelines, sellers can enhance safety measures during handling and transportation, resulting in an improved overall selling experience.

For a convenient and efficient solution to manage your Amazon selling operations, consider utilizing Enso Brands. As a one-stop shop for Amazon sellers, Enso Brands offers a range of tools and services to streamline your selling process. Contact us today for more information about our services.