Transporting dangerous goods isn’t just another part of the supply chain—it’s a high-risk task that’s tightly regulated for good reason. One wrong move can lead to spills, fires, injuries, or even deadly explosions. 

Across Canada, thousands of shipments involving hazardous materials move daily by road, rail, air, and sea. With that volume comes the risk of mistakes—some of which have serious consequences.

According to Statistique Canada, over 470 transportation incidents involving dangerous goods were reported in 2022 alone. 

Many of these were preventable and caused by issues like mislabeling, improper packaging, or failure to follow emergency response requirements.

These kinds of mistakes don’t just put lives and the environment at risk—they can also result in hefty fines, damaged reputations, and delays that affect the entire supply chain.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the most common mistakes in the transport of dangerous goods. 

From documentation errors to inadequate training, these oversights are more frequent than you might think—and they can be costly. More importantly, we’ll share practical tips and solutions to help your business stay compliant and keep people safe.

Whether you’re a driver, shipper, or logistics manager, knowing these common pitfalls is key to doing your job safely and legally. Let’s dive in and make sure your next shipment doesn’t become a headline.

What Are Hazardous Materials (Hazmat)?

Hazardous materials, often called hazmat, are substances that pose a risk to people, property, or the environment—especially when they are moved from one place to another.

These risks can come from the substance being flammable, corrosive, toxic, explosive, or even radioactive. 

Because of their potential danger, these materials must be handled with great care and according to strict safety standards.

Common types of hazardous materials include:

1. Flammable liquids like gasoline, diesel, and certain paints
2. Corrosive substances such as acids and industrial cleaners
3. Explosives, including fireworks or blasting agents
4. Toxic materials, like pesticides or medical waste
5. Compressed gases, such as propane and oxygen tanks
6. Radioactive items, often used in medical or industrial equipment

These materials are used in many industries—from construction and healthcare to transportation and manufacturing—so they move through Canada’s roads, railways, ports, and airports every day.

To reduce the risks associated with transporting these dangerous goods, hazmat shipping is heavily regulated around the world. In Canada, Transport Canada sets and enforces rules under the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Regulations. 

These rules ensure that hazardous substances are properly classified, labelled, packaged, and documented before transport. They also require specific training for anyone involved in the shipping process.

These global and national regulations are not just legal requirements—they’re lifesaving protocols designed to prevent accidents and protect communities.

Why Hazmat Shipping Requires Extra Caution

Shipping hazardous materials is very different from moving regular freight—and with good reason. 

While a typical shipment might just involve packaging, labeling, and delivery, transporting dangerous goods involves a complex system of precautions, regulations, and responsibilities to prevent serious harm.

Hazardous materials can pose serious risks to human health, public safety, property, and the environment. A small mistake—like leaking chemicals, mislabeled gases, or improperly secured containers—can lead to fires, explosions, toxic exposure, or environmental disasters. 

For example, a spill involving corrosive materials can injure handlers or contaminate local waterways, and an improperly labeled flammable gas tank can trigger an explosion during transit.

Because of these high-stakes dangers, hazmat shipping is heavily regulated. In Canada, Transport Canada enforces the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Regulations, which cover everything from packaging and labelling to driver training and emergency response. 

Internationally, other key regulations include:

• The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for domestic hazmat movement in the U.S.
• The International Air Transport Association (IATA) rules for air shipments
• The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code for ocean freight

These regulations are designed to create a standardized approach to safety across borders and transport methods.

Because of the potential consequences—both legal and life-threatening—every organization involved in shipping dangerous goods must take extra care. 

Proper training, documentation, and compliance aren't optional—they're essential to preventing costly mistakes and ensuring public safety.

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Hazardous Materials

Shipping hazardous materials isn't just about moving items from point A to B—it's about ensuring safety every step of the way. 

The process is highly regulated, and for good reason: even small errors can cause major accidents, environmental damage, or lead to costly fines and shipment delays. 

For Canadian businesses, compliance with Transport Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Regulations is mandatory, and the same applies to international shipments under IATA or IMDG rules.

Unfortunately, many shippers—especially those new to hazmat logistics—make avoidable mistakes. Whether it's packaging, labeling, or documentation, even minor oversights can result in shipment rejections, legal issues, or public safety threats. 

Below are two of the most common mistakes made during the shipping of dangerous goods, along with ways to avoid them.

1. Improper Packaging of Dangerous Goods

One of the most frequent and dangerous mistakes is using the wrong type of packaging. 

Each hazardous material has specific requirements for how it must be contained, based on its class, quantity, and transportation mode (air, sea, road, rail). If packaging fails in transit, it can lead to spills, leaks, or even explosions.

Canadian regulations—like the TDG Act—require the use of UN-certified packaging that has been tested and approved for specific hazard classes. 

Using non-compliant containers or mixing incompatible materials in one package not only risks safety but is also a clear regulatory violation.

To avoid this mistake:

• Always verify the hazard class of the material.
• Use UN-approved containers with visible certification markings.
• Follow specific packing instructions based on the mode of transport.

2. Incomplete or Incorrect Labeling and Marking

Another common pitfall is poor or incorrect labeling. Every package of hazardous materials must include the correct hazard labels, handling markings, and UN identification numbers.

These elements alert carriers and emergency responders about the risks involved and how to handle the cargo safely.

According to Transport Canada and international guidelines, missing or incorrect labels are among the top reasons shipments are delayed, rejected, or fined. 

In some cases, unlabeled materials can be treated as abandoned or misdeclared cargo—leading to heavy penalties.

To ensure proper compliance:

• Use the correct hazard class label (e.g., flammable, corrosive, toxic).
• Include all necessary handling instructions, such as orientation arrows or "Keep Away from Heat" or "Biohazard Material".
• Clearly display the correct UN number for the substance being shipped.

Getting the labeling and marking right is critical—not just for compliance, but for everyone’s safety along the supply chain.

3. Failing to Complete or Provide Proper Shipping Documentation

One of the biggest—and most avoidable—mistakes in hazardous material shipping is incomplete or incorrect documentation. Regulatory authorities require precise paperwork to track, identify, and manage dangerous goods in transit. 

Key documents include the Shipping Document for Dangerous Goods, Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS), emergency contact information, and relevant permits or declarations depending on the transport mode.

When these documents are missing or filled out incorrectly, it can bring shipments to a standstill, result in fines, or cause the cargo to be denied entry at borders or ports. 

For example, omitting a UN number or using the wrong product description can create serious confusion for handlers and emergency responders.

To avoid this issue:

• Always use up-to-date SDSs that match the product and country requirements.
• Double-check that all required fields on the TDG shipping document are complete and accurate.
• Ensure emergency response numbers are active and accessible 24/7.

4. Not Verifying Carrier and Route Compliance

Not every transport company is authorized—or properly equipped—to handle dangerous goods. Choosing a non-compliant carrier or failing to plan an approved route can lead to cargo being impounded, delayed, or even confiscated. 

In Canada, carriers must be certified under Transport Canada’s TDG regulations, and some roads, tunnels, and urban areas may prohibit hazmat transport entirely.

Skipping this verification step can result in:

• Costly delays or detours
• Fines for regulatory violations
• Increased liability in case of an incident

To prevent this mistake:

• Use carriers that are certified and insured for dangerous goods.
• Review local and provincial regulations to ensure route compliance.
• Confirm that drivers hold valid TDG training and certifications.

5. Inadequate Employee Training

Anyone who handles, ships, prepares, or transports hazardous materials must be properly trained—no exceptions. 

This includes warehouse staff, shipping clerks, drivers, and supervisors. In Canada, the TDG Act requires that hazmat employees receive training every three years or sooner if their job duties change.

Lack of training leads to:

• Labeling or packaging mistakes
• Improper emergency responses
• Increased risk of accidents, spills, or legal action

To stay compliant:

• Enroll employees in certified TDG training programs.
• Maintain documentation of all training records.
• Schedule refresher courses well before the three-year deadline.

Well-trained staff are a company’s first line of defense in ensuring safe and lawful hazmat shipping.

6. Ignoring Quantity Limits or Segregation Rules

Another critical mistake in the transport of dangerous goods is ignoring quantity limits or failing to follow segregation requirements. 

Many hazardous materials have strict volume thresholds—exceeding them without proper documentation, placards, or additional safety measures can result in serious legal and safety violations.

For example:

• Transporting flammable liquids over allowed quantities without placards can lead to fines.
• Placing acids near oxidizers or flammable materials in the same vehicle or container increases the risk of fire, explosions, or toxic gas release.

Segregation rules are in place to prevent chemical reactions during transport. These rules apply not only to what goes into the same package, but also to what’s packed on the same pallet, in the same vehicle, or in adjacent containers.

To avoid this mistake:

• Always review the TDG Schedule 1 and segregation charts.
• Use separation barriers or shipping different classes separately.
• Verify placarding and documentation for larger quantities.

7. Assuming Domestic and International Rules Are the Same

Many shippers assume that what works domestically will automatically apply internationally. This is a dangerous and costly mistake. In Canada, the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Act governs hazmat shipping domestically. 

However, international shipments must comply with rules like IATA (for air), IMDG Code (for sea), and foreign country-specific laws.

Differences include:

• Labeling and documentation formats
• Packaging standards
• Language requirements (e.g., SDSs in French for Quebec or Spanish for Latin America)

For instance, a shipment prepared for Canadian domestic ground transport may not be acceptable for air shipment under IATA—even if it contains the same materials.

To avoid compliance issues:

• Determine the mode of transport and destination-specific rules before preparing the shipment.
• Use the correct regulatory references (TDG vs. IATA vs. IMDG).
• Work with a dangerous goods consultant if shipping across borders regularly.

International compliance is not just a matter of paperwork—it’s about safety, legality, and keeping supply chains moving without costly delays.

How to Avoid Hazmat Shipping Mistakes

Avoiding mistakes in the transport of dangerous goods is not just about following rules—it’s about protecting people, the environment, and your business. Errors can lead to shipment delays, fines, cargo damage, or even serious accidents. 

Fortunately, many of these issues can be prevented with strong systems, training, and attention to detail.

The best way to avoid compliance issues is by building safety into every step of your shipping process. This means choosing the right packaging, staying updated with regulations, verifying paperwork, and training staff regularly. 

Let’s break down a few essential practices that help you stay compliant and safe when shipping hazardous materials.

1. Use the Right Packaging and Labels

Proper packaging is the first line of defense in hazmat safety. Using incorrect containers or outdated labels can lead to leakage, fines, and rejections.

• Always use UN-certified packaging that’s approved for the specific class of dangerous goods you’re shipping. This includes correct inner packaging, outer packaging, and closures.
• Check for weight limits, compatibility with the substance, and proper absorption materials if needed.
• Labels and placards must meet current Transport Canada or international standards (e.g., IATA, IMDG). This includes size, color, hazard class, orientation arrows, and UN numbers.
• Before shipping, re-check testing certifications to ensure packaging hasn't expired or been damaged.

Staying current with packaging and labeling standards can make or break a shipment.

2. Double-Check Shipping Documents

Hazmat shipping documentation must be 100% accurate. Even minor errors can result in rejected shipments or legal consequences.

• Always ensure your shipping papers include the correct UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, packing group, quantity, and package type.
• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) should be up to date and include relevant handling, hazard, and emergency response information.
• Don’t forget to include emergency contact information that is reachable 24/7 and knowledgeable about the materials in transport.
• Implement a second-person review whenever possible. A fresh set of eyes can catch errors that the preparer may have overlooked.

Good documentation doesn’t just meet legal requirements—it ensures everyone along the supply chain knows how to handle the materials safely.

3. Choose Certified Hazmat Carriers

Selecting the right transportation partner is critical when shipping dangerous goods. Not all carriers are authorized or properly equipped to handle hazardous materials, and using an uncertified one can put your shipment—and business—at risk.

• Verify their hazmat certification and Transport Canada or international approvals before booking.
• Ask about their experience with your specific class of dangerous goods, as not all hazmat is treated the same.
• Confirm that their equipment and drivers are trained for emergency response and proper handling.
• Ensure the carrier knows about any special routing restrictions or permit requirements along the planned route.

Working with certified carriers not only keeps you compliant—it also gives you peace of mind that your shipment is in safe hands.

4. Invest in Regular Hazmat Training

Training isn’t a one-and-done process. Employees involved in handling, packing, or documenting dangerous goods must stay up to date on regulations and best practices.

• Schedule mandatory training every three years, or sooner if regulations change.
• Cover topics like classification, documentation, packaging, emergency response, and incident reporting.
• Include hands-on exercises for high-risk tasks like labeling or container inspections.

Investing in training reduces errors and shows regulators you’re serious about compliance.

5. Understand International and Destination-Specific Rules

Shipping hazmat across borders adds complexity. What’s allowed domestically may not be accepted internationally.

• Research rules specific to your destination country or region.
• Follow guidelines from international regulatory bodies like IATA (air), IMDG (sea), and ICAO (aviation).
• Be aware of language requirements, documentation formats, and any banned substances in other jurisdictions.

Failing to understand these differences can cause delays, denied entries, or returned cargo.

6. Build a Hazmat Compliance Checklist

To keep things organized, create a simple internal hazmat compliance checklist for every shipment. This helps avoid costly oversights.

Your checklist should include:

• Correct UN-certified packaging and labels
• Verified and complete shipping documentation
• Certified hazmat carrier confirmation
• Training status of staff involved
• International and destination-specific compliance
• Emergency response plan and contacts

Having a checklist ensures you’re not relying on memory—every box gets ticked before the goods leave your facility.

Conclusion

Shipping hazardous materials isn’t just about getting cargo from point A to point B—it’s about doing it safely, legally, and responsibly. 

As we've seen, common mistakes in the transport of dangerous goods—like using the wrong packaging, skipping proper labels, or neglecting training—can have serious consequences.

These aren't just regulatory headaches; they can result in spills, injuries, shipment delays, costly fines, and even legal action.

What makes these mistakes especially costly is that many of them are avoidable. With the right preparation and attention to detail, businesses can dramatically reduce the risks associated with hazmat shipping. 

That means training staff regularly, working only with certified carriers, double-checking paperwork, and staying informed about current regulations—especially when crossing international borders.

A single oversight could put your employees, the public, and the environment at risk. That’s why it’s critical to treat every hazmat shipment with the care and caution it deserves.

Stay proactive. Stay compliant. Always double-check. Whether you ship dangerous goods every day or just occasionally, taking the time to do it right protects everyone involved—and keeps your operations running smoothly.