Dangerous goods can be transported only under regulated terms and conditions, as they pose a threat to people, property, and/or the eco-system in an unfortunate case of an accident. Some of the types of dangerous goods include explosives, gases, radioactive material, and flammable liquids among others. Hence, you need to choose a reliable and reputable dangerous goods transport company that will follow the laws of the country and ship your goods safely and in time.
Things to ensure while choosing dangerous goods transport
Transportation agency with experience
You have the option of choosing a transportation agency that is willing to ship your goods for a much cheaper cost with security. However, the shipment of such goods involves a huge amount of risk. So, you must delegate such a responsibility to only an experienced dangerous goods transport service.
Hiring a reputable agency for the job will also lower the risk of damage to the goods. Most renowned transportation agencies have insurance to cover up any damages caused to your goods in transit. They also have the best quality carriers, trucks, and professional drivers who are trained in delivering hazardous materials with utmost safety and precaution. So, choose a company with a proven track record.
Follow guidelines
There is a reason why certain goods are called dangerous goods. Make sure that the dangerous goods transport service you hire knows all the relevant safety guidelines stipulated by the country’s laws and have equipped themselves to carry out the transportation of the goods. It is the responsibility of the agency and its drivers to ensure safety on the road and the delivery of the dangerous cargo securely to the destination.
Find out if the cargo service has the logistics for transportation of these hazardous materials:
- Flammable gases
- Flammable liquids
- Flammable solids
- Radioactive materials
- Oxidizing substances
- Corrosives
- Biological toxic or infectious substances
- Explosives
- Fuels such as petrol, kerosene, and diesel
Since each of these substances has different levels of reactivity, there are unique guidelines set for each of these. So, the transportation company you hire must have the necessary expertise to transport each of these goods.
Check their packing and delivery process
If you deal in dangerous goods on regular basis and are looking for dangerous goods transport company for a regular shipment of your goods, you should visit the transport facility to see the entire process from start to end.
Take a look at the way they pack, seal, and position the goods along with the all the necessary precautions. Lastly, the drivers too because all the packaging and loading is done, your goods will be in their hands. So, see to it that they are all professional and have enough experience in transporting your kind of dangerous goods. The drivers must have a spotless record. Even though renowned companies hire only the best drivers in the business, you must still cross-check as these are dangerous goods.
Certifications and records
The dangerous goods transport service you hire must be certified and have the necessary licenses to undertake such a risky responsibility. Find out if the agency you are about to hire is certified. Ask to see the company’s records as this will ensure that the company follows standard rules and guidelines and is authorized to carry all types of hazardous materials. Look for all necessary documents and opt for a company that provides complete paperwork and legit services.
Conclusion
Some companies do not offer services such as labeling, packaging, and other pre-transit services. It is better to hire a company that takes care of your dangerous goods transport service from start to finish, even if they charge a little extra. It will save you time and spare you the unnecessary hassles of custom clearance and paperwork. So, choose the right dangerous goods transportation, today!