Hazardous materials require specific types of packaging in order to keep them safe during transport and ensure they do not leak or combust. You can see our hazardous material packaging options here. Packing also needs to follow all classification requirements and criteria set by relevant legal and industry authorities. To identify the type of packaging you need, you first need to identify the classification of the material you are shipping. Then, you need to determine how much hazardous material you are shipping. Depending on the type and quantity, packaging may also require performance packing codes in accordance with UN Standard or Department of Transportation (DOT)-Specifications to be added. These codes are markings on the hazmat label, identifying and designating hazardous material(s) contained by the degree of danger it may present.

The terms hazmat and hazardous materials both refer to any items or agents that can cause harm to humans, animals, and the environment if not handled correctly. This can include explosives, poisons, radioactive materials, and flammable and combustible substances. A material can be classified as hazardous because of its own properties or because of how it interacts with other materials. For more information on who is responsible for the integrity and safety of a shipment or who develops regulations, visit our specific FAQ For Hazmat Packaging here.

Hazardous material labels must always be clearly visible on packaging and affixed or printed directly onto the top or sides or a box near the shipping name. Labels should never be on the bottom. A label is required for every hazardous class a material being transported belongs to. These labels also must be very durable and water resistant in order to withstand varying transportation conditions. Additionally, the color of the label must be distinctly different from the color of the packaging, so it stands out and contrasts. Labels need to be diamond-shaped (square rotated 45 degrees to the side), and there are specifications that need to be followed for size, color, printing, and inner border.

No. Labels need to be permanently attached or printed onto one side, or one surface, of the packaging.

A combination package is any kind of packaging that is comprised of one or more inner packings that are secured by outer packaging. The innermost packing components are to protect the container with the hazardous material within it, while the outer packing protects the inner packing from getting damaged during transit.

Spray foam like LPS Industries’ Instapak Quick Expanding Liquid Foam Packaging can be used to create a custom, cushioning, and effective packing solution by following these steps:

1. Remove the bag from the warmer, unfold it completely, and lay it on a flat surface.
2. Apply pressure to the area marked “Press Here” on the lower left side of the bag. This will open the inside seal.
3. Alternate between patting part “A” and part “B.” This will cause the bag to expand.
4. While the foam bag is expanding, quickly place it in the shipping box with the product in it. Ensure that the product is nestled by the bag so it is protected.
5. Repeat steps 1-3 and place the second foam bag on top of the product while it is expanding.
6. Close and secure the flaps on the shipping box.

Inner packaging is the packing material that secures and protects the container holding hazardous material. Inner packaging is protected by the outer packaging, and it requires outer packaging to be transported.

Solvent-based and solventless lamination are similar but different types of packaging film that can protect a product in shipping and transit. Solvent-based lamination is a type of adhesive that gets dissolved in a solvent, creating a liquid adhesive that is then applied to a material. After being applied, this solvent evaporates and leaves behind the adhesive, which bonds the material together after hardening. Solventless lamination has a similar effect but achieves it using adhesives that do not contain solvent, which means there is no need for the film to dry. This makes solventless lamination ideal for protecting ready-to-eat foods, frozen goods, fresh produce, and boil-in-bag pouches, along with non-food items like stationary, cosmetics, and medical supplies.