Hazardous Cargo Handling Checklist

49 CFR 172.602 requires a monitored 24/7 number on the shipping paper — typically CHEMTREC (1-800-424-9300) with a valid contract number. Missing or unmonitored numbers are a common roadside OOS finding for placardable hazmat.

Match the four-digit UN/NA number, proper shipping name, hazard class/division, and packing group against the Hazardous Materials Table in 49 CFR 172.101. Misclassification by the shipper is the dispatcher's last chance to catch before the load rolls.

Do not load. Email the shipper a written reclassification request, copy the safety director, and pause the dispatch in the TMS. Re-run this section once corrected paperwork arrives.

Each package should show a UN performance mark (e.g., 1A1/Y1.4/150) matching the packing group on the shipping paper. Reject drums, IBCs, or combo packs without legible marks.

Primary and subsidiary hazard labels per 49 CFR 172 Subpart E. Orientation arrows on liquids. Limited-quantity or ORM-D markings where claimed. Photograph one representative package for the run record.

Walk every pallet. Look for crushed corners, weeping seams, residue on outer cartons, swollen IBC totes, and torn drum chimes. Any sign of release on a placardable load is OOS until resolved.

Move the package to the spill-containment pad, photograph all six sides, and notify the shipper in writing. Do not consolidate damaged hazmat with the rest of the load — short-ship and re-paper if needed.

Cross-reference each class/division on the load against 49 CFR 177.848. Common traps: Class 8 corrosives next to Division 5.1 oxidizers, Division 2.3 poisons next to anything edible (food chain rule under 177.841).

Per Part 393 Subpart I — working load limits sufficient for cargo weight, edge protectors on synthetic straps, no contact between dunnage and package valves. Tankers: confirm baffle or smoothbore handling per driver qualification.

No cuts, knots, or chemical staining on synthetic webbing. Chain hooks not bent or twisted. Replace any device with WLL stamping illegible. The driver signs off on securement before the trailer is sealed.

49 CFR 172 Subpart F. Front of tractor, both sides of trailer, rear of trailer. Use the correct placard for the predominant hazard; subsidiary placards where required (e.g., DANGEROUS for mixed loads under 1,001 lb aggregate exception).

Standard Part 396 pre-trip plus hazmat extras: brake stroke within adjustment limits, no exhaust leaks near tank, electrical wiring inspected for chafing, fire extinguisher (10 B:C minimum, 2 required for placardable) charged and within inspection date.

Driver carries the wallet card with the active contract number. Cross-check the number on the shipping paper matches the cab card — mismatches happen when shippers reuse old templates.

Pull the SDS for the predominant commodity. Confirm gloves (nitrile vs. neoprene vs. butyl), eye protection, respirator cartridge type, and chemical-resistant boots are in the cab. Generic PPE kits do not pass for Division 6.1 or Class 8 loads.

Absorbent pads or socks rated for the load class, plug-and-dike kit, sealed disposal bags, three reflective triangles per 393.95. Extinguishers tagged within 12 months and pressure gauge in the green.

CDL with H or X endorsement, current medical certificate, TSA hazmat threat assessment within 5 years. TWIC required if route includes a MARSEC-regulated port. Pull the DQ file snapshot from Foley or Tenstreet for the run record.

49 CFR 172.704: general awareness, function-specific, safety, security awareness, and in-depth security training certificates dated within 36 months. Recurrent training overdue means the driver is not qualified to handle this load — swap drivers, do not let the run depart.

Identify state-designated hazmat routes, tunnel restrictions (e.g., Baltimore Harbor, Holland, Lincoln), and any required attendance/parking rules under 397.5. Note overnight parking that prohibits placarded loads.