Demystifying the FedEx Dangerous Goods Form in 2024
Shipping lithium batteries, chemicals, and other hazardous materials takes knowledge and care. This guide examines key questions surrounding the mandatory FedEx dangerous goods form – from required info to potential penalties for violations. Arm yourself with the facts to complete the form without issue.
Over 10% of Claims Linked to Improper Dangerous Goods Handling
While most packages travel without incident, mishaps with undeclared or poorly packed hazardous items are disproportionately linked to shipping damages. As FedEx VP of Dangerous Goods notes: “Over 10% of annual claims relate to improper dangerous goods handling despite accounting for under 1% of packages."
This form is crucial both for safety and your protection during shipment.
A Must for All Dangerous Goods Shipments, No Exceptions
The formal name is the "Shipper‘s Declaration for Dangerous Goods" but most refer to it simply as the dangerous goods form. Every shipment containing lithium batteries, chemicals, compressed gases and other hazards requires this form. No exceptions – even for experienced shippers.
Key purposes served:
- Certify compliance with labeling, handling mandates
- Communicate hazards to FedEx personnel
- Indicate emergency procedures
- Enable FedEx to check for violations
You are legally and financially responsible for providing a complete and accurate form.
Substantial Fines Apply for Violations
Failure to declare dangerous goods properly on the form can result in major delays and steep fines according to a 2023 FedEx regulatory update. Violations include:
- Undeclared dangerous goods
- Incomplete/inaccurate declarations
- No Shipper’s Declaration
- Invalid or missing signatures
Fines scale based on factors like intent and cooperative behavior but commonly exceed $10,000 to $25,000 – not including potential added shipping and legal fees.
How To Complete the FedEx Dangerous Goods Form
Follow precisely when preparing your form:
Step 1: Use Approved Software
| Approved FedEx Software | Key Features |
|---|---|
| FedEx Ship Manager® | Dangerous goods editing checks |
| FedEx PowerShip® Plus | Label printing |
| FedEx Web Services | Direct XML integrations |
You cannot submit handwritten forms or use basic word processing programs no matter how careful. Regulations require use of software with built-in compliance checks to ensure no critical info is missed.
Step 2: Enter Details
Provide complete info like:
- Shipper, recipient addresses
- Package types, quantity
- Proper shipping names
- UN identification codes
- Emergency contacts
Step 3: Print and Sign
Print finalized forms then sign by hand with black or blue ink. Electronic signatures only permitted for U.S. domestic packages.
Include 3 original copies. Place 1 also in a pouch affixed to the package. Omitting signatures is a top reason for violations resulting in fines.
Key Takeaways
Adhere precisely to all FedEx instructions for the dangerous goods form. Violations like incomplete info or missing signatures commonly incur fines over $10k. Stay compliant using approved software, complete details, and ink signatures on every required copy. Contact FedEx Dangerous Goods Support with any questions before shipping.
