Blank Shipper Export Declaration PDF Template

1. What is the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods?

   This form is a critical document that accompanies shipments of dangerous goods, ensuring they are transported safely. This declaration confirms that the shipment complies with all international and national regulations concerning the transport of dangerous goods by air. It identifies the nature, quantity, and packaging of the dangerous goods and confirms the goods are correctly classified, packed, marked, and in proper condition for transportation.

2. Why do I need to provide at least three copies to the airline?

   Multiple copies of the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods are necessary for various parties involved in the transportation process. These include the airline, which needs to be aware of the dangerous goods they are transporting, regulatory authorities who may require proof of compliance with regulations, and the shipper themselves for record-keeping and verification purposes in case of disputes or checks.

3. Who must use this Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods form?

   This specific declaration must be used for special types of shipments such as Class 7 radioactive materials, shipments attached to an 023 air waybill (used for particular FedEx Express services), or those originating from a non-US location. The form is designed to ensure that these high-risk shipments are handled according to strict safety standards.

4. How many copies of this Declaration need to be completed and signed?

   Two completed and signed copies of the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods must be provided to the operator. This ensures that there is sufficient documentation for both the shipping and receiving ends of the transport process, allowing for accurate tracking and management of the dangerous goods shipment.

5. What are the consequences of failing to comply with the Dangerous Goods Regulations?

   Non-compliance with the applicable Dangerous Goods Regulations can lead to severe legal penalties. This warning emphasizes the importance of ensuring all information on the declaration is accurate and that the shipment adheres to all regulations. These regulations are in place to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of people, property, and the environment during transportation.

6. What details must be included in the Transport Details section?

   In the Transport Details section, the shipper must specify if the shipment is subject to restrictions for passenger or cargo aircraft only and list the airport of departure and destination. This information is crucial for the transportation and handling of dangerous goods, ensuring that they are routed and handled appropriately, according to the level of risk they pose.

7. What constitutes proper packaging and labeling for dangerous goods?

   Proper packaging and labeling involve using materials and containers that are approved and suitable for the specific types of dangerous goods being shipped. The packaging must be secure and able to withstand normal transport conditions without leaking or causing danger. Labels and marks must clearly identify the nature of the goods, include hazard warnings, and comply with international and national regulations. This ensures that all parties handling the shipment are aware of its contents and the associated risks, facilitating safe transportation.

When filling out the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods form, it's crucial to pay attention to detail and understand the requirements thoroughly. Mistakes can lead to legal penalties, delayed shipments, and hazardous situations. The following are common errors made:

1. Not providing three copies to the airline: The instructions clearly state that at least three copies of the declaration should be provided. This is a common oversight that can result in processing delays.
2. Using the form for incorrect shipment types: This specific form is meant only for Class 7 radioactive shipments, shipments using an 023 air waybill, or shipments originating from a non-US location. Using it for any other kind of shipments is incorrect.
3. Failure to complete both required copies: Two completed and signed copies of the Declaration must be handed to the operator. Sometimes, shippers neglect to provide both, leading to administrative issues.

Additionally, when detailing the transport and shipment information, the following mistakes are frequently made:

• Inaccurate Dangerous Goods Identification: Proper identification includes the UN Class, Packing Group, and Proper Shipping Name. Misidentifying these can lead to inappropriate handling and potential danger.
• Omitting quantity and type of packaging: The form requires details on the quantity and specific type of packaging used, which is crucial for safety. Leaving this information out can lead to mishandling.
• Incorrect Packing Instruction (PI) notation: The PI determines how the goods should be packed. Incorrect notation can lead to non-compliance with safety regulations.
• Lack of Additional Handling Information: This section is critical for the safe handling of dangerous goods. Neglecting to provide this information can increase the risk of incidents.
• Failing to sign or date the form: The declaration must be signed and dated by the shipper. This is a legal document, and unsigned or undated forms are considered invalid.
• Not specifying the shipper's emergency contact number: This is a vital piece of information that must be provided in case of an emergency. Failure to do so could have serious consequences in emergency situations.

Adhering to the form’s instructions is paramount for the safety and legality of shipping dangerous goods. Understanding common pitfalls can help prevent making these mistakes and ensure a smoother shipping process.

In conjunction with the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods, a range of other forms and documents are frequently required to ensure compliance with international and national regulations for the transportation of goods. These documents facilitate various legal, logistical, and safety processes that accompany the shipment of goods, especially those classified as dangerous. Below is a list of common forms and documents that are often used alongside the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods.

• Commercial Invoice: Provides information about the transaction between the seller and the buyer for customs and valuation purposes, detailing the product, quantity, and price.
• Bill of Lading (BOL): A contract between the owner of the goods and the carrier. For sea and inland waterway movements, it serves as a receipt for shipped goods and a document of title to them.
• Air Waybill (AWB): The air transport version of the bill of lading. It is a receipt for goods and a contract for delivery between shipper and air carrier.
• Certificate of Origin: A document certifying the country in which the goods were manufactured, required by certain countries for tariff purposes.
• Packing List: Details the contents, weight, and dimensions of each package or container, making it easier for carriers and customs to understand the shipment.
• Export License: Required for certain goods or destinations, granting permission to export items as deemed necessary by the relevant government entity.
• Letter of Credit: A payment mechanism often required for international transactions, issued by a bank on behalf of the buyer, providing financial security to the seller.
• Export Packing Declaration: States how the goods were packed and what materials were used, important for ensuring safe transportation and meeting quarantine standards.
• Inspection Certification: Issued by a third party or an authorized inspection agency to verify that the goods meet the required standards and specifications.
• Insurance Certificate: Provides proof of insurance coverage for the shipped goods, covering any loss or damage during transit.

Each of these documents plays a crucial role in the complex process of shipping goods, particularly those classified as dangerous. Proper completion and submission of these documents ensure smooth shipment, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and mitigation of risks associated with the transport of goods across borders. For businesses and individuals involved in the international shipment of goods, understanding the importance and function of these documents is essential for success in global trade.

• Commercial Invoice: Similar to the Shipper's Export Declaration form, a Commercial Invoice is crucial for international trade, documenting the sale between the exporter and buyer. It includes detailed information about the transaction, such as the description of goods, terms of sale, and prices, much like the Shipper's Export Declaration specifies the nature and quantity of dangerous goods, ensuring that all parties have a clear understanding of what is being shipped and the terms involved.

• Bill of Lading: This document shares similarities with the Shipper's Export Declaration in that it acts as a contract between the owner of the goods and the carrier. Both documents are essential for the transportation of goods, with the Shipper's Export Declaration focusing on dangerous goods and compliance with regulations, while the Bill of Lading encompasses all types of cargo, detailing the quantity, destination, and conditions under which the goods are carried.

• Export Packing List: Much like the Shipper's Export Declaration, an Export Packing List is detailed, listing all items included in the shipment. It provides information on the packaging type, sizes, weights, and package counts, which is necessary for carriers and customs officials to handle and inspect shipments. The emphasis on the quantity and type of packaging in the Shipper's Export Declaration mirrors the purpose of the Export Packing List, focusing on ensuring the safe and compliant transport of goods.

• Certificate of Origin: A Certificate of Origin is a document that certifies the country in which the goods were manufactured, akin to how the Shipper's Export Declaration outlines the shipper's compliance with international regulations based on the origin and nature of the goods. Both documents are integral to customs clearance, helping to determine tariff rates and ensuring that goods comply with the legal standards of their respective origins and destinations.

• Hazardous Materials Safety Permit (HMSP): This permit, required for certain hazardous materials shipments in the U.S., parallels the Shipper's Export Declaration's focus on dangerous goods. It verifies that the carrier is qualified to transport hazardous materials safely, similar to how the Shipper's Export Declaration ensures that dangerous goods are properly classified, packaged, marked, and in compliance with transport regulations.

• Electronic Export Information (EEI) filing: Previously known as the Shipper’s Export Declaration, the EEI is filed with the U.S. Census Bureau for most exports that exceed a certain value threshold. It shares a fundamental purpose with the Shipper's Export Declaration for Dangerous Goods by documenting key details about the export shipment, ensuring regulatory compliance, and aiding in the compilation of U.S. export statistics, though the EEI covers a broader range of goods.

When preparing the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods form, certain guidelines will ensure compliance and enhance safety. Below are seven key do's and don'ts to consider:

• Do provide at least three copies of the Declaration to the airline, ensuring that the information is transparent and readily available for all parties involved.
• Do use the form specifically for Class 7 radioactive shipments, shipments using an 023 air waybill (IP1, IXF, or ATA service), and shipments originating from a non-US location to ensure it meets the specialized requirements.
• Do accurately and fully describe the contents of your consignment by the proper shipping name, ensuring that it is classified, packaged, marked, labelled, and in proper condition for transport according to International and National Governmental Regulations.
• Don't overlook the importance of signing the document. Two completed and signed copies must be handed to the operator as a declaration that all applicable air transport requirements have been met.
• Don't fill in the form without checking the most current applicable Dangerous Goods Regulations. Regulations frequently change, and it's imperative to ensure compliance with the latest requirements.
• Don't use the form for shipments that do not fall within the specified criteria (Class 7 radioactive materials, shipments using an 023 air waybill, and shipments from a non-US location) to avoid processing and legal issues.
• Don't neglect to provide an emergency telephone number, name/title of the signatory, and place and date of signing, as these details are critical for contact and validation purposes in the event of an emergency or query related to the shipment.

Following these dos and don'ts can significantly streamline the shipping process, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain safety standards for dangerous goods transport.

Understanding the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods (SDDG) is crucial for those involved in shipping hazardous materials. However, several misconceptions surround this critical document, leading to confusion and potential compliance issues. Below are six common misconceptions about the Shipper's Export Declaration form:

• It is only necessary for hazardous materials. While it's true that the SDDG is essential for shipments containing dangerous goods, the misconception lies in the belief that it's exclusively for hazardous materials. The form also encompasses goods that may not be dangerous but require careful handling and documentation due to their nature, such as certain types of lithium batteries or equipment containing such batteries.
• Any type of shipment can use the FedEx Express template. The document specifies that the template provided is to be used only for specific types of shipments, such as Class 7 radioactive materials or shipments using an 023 air waybill. This restriction is often overlooked, leading to the assumption that the template is universally applicable to all shipments.
• One copy of the form is sufficient for all parties. The directive that at least three copies of the SDDG must be provided to the airline is frequently misunderstood. This requirement ensures that all relevant parties, including the shipper, carrier, and receiving entity, have the necessary documentation for safe and compliant transportation and handling of the goods.
• Details of the shipment can be vaguely described. A common misconception is the level of detail required in filling out the SDDG. It explicitly states that the contents of the consignment must be "fully and accurately described" by the proper shipping name. This precision is crucial for the safety of those handling the goods and for legal compliance.
• The form is optional for all types of shipments. The declaration is mandated for shipments meeting the criteria outlined in the document, especially for dangerous goods. The notion that the form is merely a recommendation rather than a requirement is false and can lead to serious legal ramifications.
• Non-compliance has minor repercussions. Perhaps one of the most dangerous misconceptions is underestimating the consequences of failing to comply with the declaration's requirements. The warning section of the form clearly states that non-compliance may result in breach of applicable law and subject to legal penalties. This underscores the importance of adhering to all specifications and regulations when preparing shipments.

Dispelling these misconceptions is vital for ensuring the safety, legality, and efficiency of shipping dangerous goods. Adequate understanding and strict adherence to the SDDG's guidelines are indispensable for shippers, carriers, and all parties involved in the transportation of hazardous materials.

Filling out the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods accurately and thoroughly is crucial for the safe and legal transport of hazardous materials. Below are five key takeaways to remember when dealing with this form:

• Understand the Purpose: The Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods is designed for specific types of shipments, notably Class 7 radioactive shipments and those utilizing an 023 air waybill, among others originating from non-US locations. It is essential to know if your shipment falls within these categories.
• Compliance is Key: The declaration ensures that the shipment complies with both international and national regulations concerning the transport of dangerous goods. Failing to comply fully can lead to legal penalties, highlighting the importance of accuracy in filling out the form.
• Required Copies: At least two completed and signed copies of the Declaration must be provided to the operator. This requirement underscores the need for thoroughness and accuracy in the document’s preparation.
• Specific Information is Mandatory: Details such as the type of goods (radioactive or non-radioactive), the nature and quantity of dangerous goods, and compliance confirmation with applicable transport regulations must be clearly stated. This detailed information ensures that everyone involved in the transport chain is fully aware of the shipment's nature and complies with the necessary safety standards.
• Emergency Contact Details: Providing an emergency telephone number is a critical component of the declaration. This ensures that, in case of any incident or emergency during transport, the relevant parties can be contacted swiftly for immediate action.

Taking these steps not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also promotes the safety and security of all involved in the transport of dangerous goods. It's also a reminder of the importance of understanding and adhering to the specific requirements set forth in transportation regulations.