326 Shipping Documentation

Domestically, a shipping paper means a shipping order, bill of lading, waybill, or manifest, per 49 CFR § 171.8, which identifies hazardous materials being offered for surface transportation. Neither the Postal Service nor DOT stocks or furnishes shipping documentation. It is the responsibility of the mailer to obtain shipping documentation from commercial printers, internet-based retailers, safety supply stores, or stationery stores.

Shipping papers are referred to as a Shipper‘s Declaration for Dangerous Goods when being offered for air transportation according to the Dangerous Goods Regulations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Except for sharps and regulated medical waste (refer to Exhibit 346.322), shipping documentation must be properly prepared according to 49 CFR § 172.200 through 172.205 as follows:

1. Completed and signed in triplicate by the mailer.
2. Enclosed in an envelope, or similar carrier, that can be easily opened and resealed, and securely affixed to the outside of the mailpiece to allow access to the document during inspection.

Shipping documentation is required as follows:

1. Air Transportation: Most mailable hazardous materials sent by air must be accompanied by shipping documentation. Refer to the appropriate sections and Packaging Instruction in Appendix C for requirements.
2. Surface Transportation: Certain hazardous materials sent by surface transportation may require shipping documentation. Refer to the appropriate sections and the Packaging Instruction in Appendix C for requirements.