# Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> Freight forwarders, shippers, carriers, and airlines handling hazardous materials (HAZMAT) operate under a strict regulatory framework that makes correct classification, packaging, labelling, and documentation a legal prerequisite before any such cargo may be loaded.

Freight forwarders, shippers, carriers, and airlines handling hazardous materials (HAZMAT) operate under a strict regulatory framework that makes correct classification, packaging, labelling, and documentation a legal prerequisite before any such cargo may be loaded. HAZMAT covers any substance or article that, owing to its chemical, physical, or biological properties, poses a risk to health, safety, or the environment during transport—explosives, flammable liquids and solids, toxic gases, corrosives, and radioactive materials among them. The applicable rules depend on the mode of transport: the IMDG Code for sea freight, the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) for air cargo, and the ADR Agreement for road transport in Europe. All three frameworks draw on the UN system of nine hazard classes and standardised UN numbers. Shipping HAZMAT without proper declaration is prohibited and exposes carriers and shippers to significant fines, civil liability, and suspension of transport arrangements.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazardous_material](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazardous_material)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 143 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazardous_material |

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