Background: UCSD conforms to strict government regulations when transporting hazardous materials. Shipments must arrive at their destination in good condition and present no hazard during shipment. Prior to shipping any hazardous material, you must contact the Shipping Coordinator at (858) 534-7467, Ext. 244.

Definition: The U.S. Department of Transportation and the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) define hazardous material as substances capable of posing a risk to health, safety, or to property when transported.

The following are examples of commonly shipped materials that are considered hazardous:

• Battery powered equipment
• Biological substances
• Contents of first aid kits
• Corrosives
• Diagnostic specimens
• Dry ice
• Environmentally hazardous substances
• Explosives, gases, and flammable liquids
• Flammable solids (substances liable to spontaneous combustion or substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases)
• Genetically modified organisms and micro-organisms
• Infectious substances
• Inflatable life saving appliances
• Magnetized material
• Many consumer commodities such as aerosols and lighters
• Oxidizing substances and organic peroxide
• Radioactive materials
• Toxic substances

See the U.S. Department of Transportation's detailed Hazardous Material Table (click on Hazmat Table in the left navigation bar).

If you need assistance, the UCSD Shipping Coordinator will research your item and advise you. Contact Shipping, (858) 534-7467, Ext. 244.

Radioactive materials: If you plan to ship radioactive materials, follow the instructions on How to Transfer Radioactive Materials.

To read the regulations concerning the transport of hazardous material, see:

• U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Hazardous Materials Safety, 49 CFR Regulations 171.8, 172.101, 173
• International Air Transportation Association (IATA), Dangerous Goods Information Online

Questions? Contact Shipping, (858) 534-7467, Ext. 244.