Transportation by Commercial Carrier
FedEx is NCSU’s most commonly used commercial carrier for hazardous materials. Shippers should apply for a Marketplace Shopper and Shipper role from their SAR administrator when shipping with FedEx. After completion of your training, your account will be granted access to the necessary Special Handling Services for hazardous materials.

A copy of the shipping papers must be kept for 2 years past the shipping date. The copy must include the date of acceptance by the initial carrier.

Import – Export
It is recommended to use an imports customs broker such as CV International (formerly Waters Shipping Limited) to ensure there are no issues with your shipment. Their Wilmington, NC branch is familiar with NCSU customers and our procurement services.

FedEx acts as a customs broker for exports but does not advise customers on regulatory compliance. International shipments must comply with:

Relocation of Hazardous Materials
Hazardous chemicals are not subject to the US DOT regulations when moved by a university employee, in a university vehicle, and when not transported in commerce. However, certain safety rules set by EH&S still apply to these situations:

  • Employees must have taken some form of hazard communication training.
  • The materials should be secure and within a secondary containment.
  • The materials should be labeled or marked with their common or proper shipping name.
  • The materials should not be placed in the passenger compartment if possible.
  • Do not transport large quantities of materials.
  • Do not place dry ice in an airtight container. Allow the vapors to escape and properly ventilate the vehicle.

Note: This exception does not apply to radioactive materials or hazardous waste. Please contact EH&S for guidance on moving these materials.

At no time is transportation of hazardous materials permitted by public transportation. All spills should be reported to EH&S.

Relocation of Laboratory
For a lab move, please complete the laboratory relocation checklist:
https://ehs.ncsu.edu/laboratory/checklists-and-resources/

Hazardous Material Security Plan

Shippers should adhere to general security guidelines when offering hazardous materials for transport.

Shippers who offer certain high risk materials for transport will need to contact EH&S to set up a site-specific security plan. These materials include:

  • Explosives
  • Bulk quantities (> 3000 kg or liters)
  • Materials poisonous by inhalation
  • Temperature controlled, Type B, Organic Peroxides
  • Select agents or toxins
  • Radioactive materials