By Nick Lung    Photo：CANVA

The closure of Ningbo Beilun Phase 3 Terminal during the peak shipping season is expected to have knock-on effects on major trans-Pacific trade routes outside of Asia, as well as throughout the supply chain. Container shipping in Ningbo has been halted after an explosion on board a ship involving hazardous materials at one of the world's busiest ports. The explosion that occurred on board Yang Ming Shipping's YM Mobility ship on August 9 involved organic peroxide materials. No one was injured in the explosion, but the terminal is closed until further notice. Ningbo is the third busiest container port in the world, with a throughput of 33.35 million 20-foot equivalent containers in 2023.

The timing of the shutdown couldn't be worse, as North American imports are expected to see a record peak in August after an "initial peak" in June as shippers rush to buy holiday goods ahead of expected supply chain disruptions in the fall. However, the closure of Ningbo this time has exacerbated the supply chain disruption caused by Typhoon Gaemi in July.

In maritime transportation, how to correctly declare dangerous goods has always been a headache for everyone. Shipping dangerous goods requires special attention and declarations. The following are the basic steps and requirements for dangerous goods shipping declaration:

1. Determine the classification of dangerous goods

Dangerous goods are divided into different categories according to their properties, such as flammable liquids, corrosive substances, explosives, etc. Confirming which category of dangerous goods the goods belong to is the basis for declaration.

2. Prepare relevant documents

Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD): This is the most important document, detailing the nature, quantity, packaging, transportation conditions and other information of the goods.

Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): Provides detailed information on the composition, hazards, handling methods and first aid measures of dangerous goods.

Packaging certification: Ensure that the packaging complies with the requirements of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Regulations (IMDG Code).

3. Packaging and labeling

Dangerous goods must be properly packaged, and relevant dangerous goods labels and signs must be affixed to the packaging. The mark should include the UN number, hazard category identification and other necessary instructions.

4. Choose the right carrier

Not all carriers accept dangerous goods shipments, so make sure the carrier is qualified to handle dangerous goods when booking transportation.

5. Submit declaration

Submit all declaration documents to customs, carriers and other relevant authorities. In some countries, special shipping permission may also be required.

6. Comply with international regulations

International shipping of dangerous goods requires compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) to ensure safety and compliance during transportation.

7. Tracking shipments

Once the goods are shipped, continuously track the transportation status to ensure safety during transportation.

By following the steps above, you can ensure the safe transportation and compliant operation of hazardous materials in ocean shipping.

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