Chemical Import and Export Checklist | SDS, Regulations and Dangerous Goods Transport
英幸株式会社When sourcing chemicals from overseas or exporting them from Japan, price and lead time are only part of the assessment. Regulations, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), dangerous goods classification, packaging and transport conditions must also be checked before shipment. Missing information may lead to customs delays, rejection by a carrier or problems during storage and delivery.
This guide explains the key information companies should organize at the initial stage of a chemical import or export project.
1. Confirm the substance, composition and intended use
Products with similar trade names may have different compositions, concentrations and hazard properties depending on the manufacturer or grade. Confirm the chemical name, CAS number, concentration, intended use, packaging, quantity, country of export and country of import. The intended use may affect which regulations apply.
2. Obtain the latest Safety Data Sheet
An SDS provides information on composition, hazards, handling, storage, accidental release measures and transport. Obtain the latest version from the supplier and confirm whether the required language and format are accepted in the destination country.
- Does the product and manufacturer match the quotation and actual goods?
- Is the issue or revision date current?
- Are CAS numbers and concentrations provided?
- Does Section 14 contain a UN number and transport information?
- Is a suitable language version available for the importing country?
The presence of an SDS alone does not establish that a shipment can be imported, exported or transported. The actual composition, quantity, packaging and transport mode must also be reviewed.
3. Determine whether the product is regulated as dangerous goods
For sea and air transport, classification may involve the UN number, Proper Shipping Name, hazard class, subsidiary risk and packing group. Domestic definitions of hazardous materials and international transport classifications are not always the same.
If the product is dangerous goods, confirm carrier acceptance, UN specification packaging where required, marks and labels, declarations, segregation requirements and storage arrangements. Small quantities may still be regulated.
4. Check regulations in Japan and the destination country
Depending on the substance and use, Japanese requirements may include the Chemical Substances Control Law, Industrial Safety and Health Act, PRTR Law, Poisonous and Deleterious Substances Control Act, Fire Service Act and export control regulations. Materials intended for food, pharmaceuticals or cosmetics may require additional review.
Import eligibility cannot always be determined by CAS number alone. Composition, concentration, intended use, quantity and the countries involved should be considered. Customs authorities, relevant agencies, customs brokers or other specialists may need to be consulted.
5. Match the packaging to the product and transport conditions
Liquid and powder chemicals may be shipped in 18-liter metal cans, steel drums, bags or IBCs. Confirm compatibility between the product and packaging material, closure integrity, labels and pallet configuration. Dangerous goods may require certified UN packaging.
6. Prepare the information needed for a quotation
The following information helps suppliers, logistics companies and customs specialists assess feasibility and costs:
- Product name, manufacturer and grade
- SDS, specification and composition information
- Quantity, package type and weight per package
- Origin, destination and required delivery date
- Preferred transport mode, such as sea or air
- Intended use and requested trade terms
Chemical sourcing and trade support from EIKO
EIKO CO., LTD. supports the sourcing, import and export of chemicals and functional materials across Japan, China, South Korea and Malaysia. We assist with supplier communication, specification review, SDS collection, logistics and customs condition checks, dangerous goods handling and OEM projects.
You may contact us even if the product or specifications have not yet been finalized. Final legal classification and transport acceptance are confirmed with the relevant authorities and specialist service providers for each project.
