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Who is responsible for Hazmat packages created in ShipGenius?

⚠️ Your Responsibility When Shipping Hazmat with ShipGenius


Shipping hazardous materials (hazmat) is a serious matter. When you create a hazmat shipment using ShipGenius Lite, you are legally responsible for ensuring that the package is safe, properly classified, and compliant with all regulations.

This article explains your obligations, the risks of non-compliance, and why it's critical to follow hazmat shipping standards.


✍️ Who’s Responsible?

You are.When you create a hazmat package in ShipGenius Lite, you are certifying that:

  • The contents are correctly identified and classified as hazmat

  • All packaging meets DOT or IATA safety standards

  • You have applied the correct labels and documentation

  • You are following the hazmat terms and conditions accepted at shipment creation

✅ By clicking "I Agree" to ShipGenius hazmat terms, you accept full legal and civil liability for the contents of your shipment.

🔥 What’s at Risk?

Improper hazmat shipments can cause explosions, fires, or chemical exposure — especially in air or long-distance transit.

Examples of real-world hazmat incidents include:

  • Lithium batteries igniting mid-flight

  • Flammable aerosols bursting in cargo vans

  • Leaking chemical containers damaging carrier facilities

⚠️ One mislabeled package can endanger drivers, warehouse workers, and aircraft crews.

🛑 What Happens if You Violate Hazmat Terms?

If your hazmat shipment violates regulations or our terms, you may face:

Consequence

Details

Carrier refusal

Your package may be rejected or destroyed without refund

Account suspension

ShipGenius may disable your account permanently

Legal penalties

Federal fines and prosecution under DOT, FAA, or PHMSA enforcement

Civil liability

You may be held responsible for any resulting injuries or damages

📄 Terms You Agreed To

When creating a hazmat shipment in ShipGenius Lite, you agreed to:

  1. Only ship eligible hazmat materials as listed in the package creation form

  2. Ensure correct weight, dimensions, and packaging for the item

  3. Provide accurate emergency contact info in case of an incident

  4. Affix appropriate markings and labels to meet DOT and IATA standards

  5. Accept all responsibility for compliance


📦 Example: Lithium Battery Package

If you ship a power tool with a lithium battery:

  • You must confirm that the battery meets UN38.3 testing

  • Use proper outer packaging with cushioning and fire resistance

  • Attach the Lithium Battery Handling Label

  • Ensure the shipment does not exceed watt-hour or quantity limits

If any of these are skipped — the package is non-compliant and dangerous.


🙅 What ShipGenius Does Not Do

ShipGenius does not validate whether your hazmat declaration is accurate. Our platform:

  • Assumes the information you submit is correct

  • Relies on your self-certification of compliance

  • Does not open or inspect your packages


✅ What You Must Always Do

Before you ship hazmat, always:

  • Review the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

  • Confirm the item is allowed by your selected carrier

  • Follow all labeling, packaging, and quantity limits

  • Provide correct emergency contact details

  • Do not guess — if unsure, contact the manufacturer


🚨 Summary: Hazmat is Not Optional Safety

Rule

Your Responsibility

Classify contents correctly

✅

Apply correct hazmat labels

✅

Package to DOT/IATA standards

✅

Sign hazmat terms and conditions

✅

Accept legal liability for any violations

✅

Shipping hazmat incorrectly isn’t just a mistake — it’s a federal offense that can harm people and property. Use ShipGenius responsibly.

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