Hazardous materials (hazmat) can cross between the U.S. and Mexico, but only with the right classification, documents, packaging and carrier. Eilan Trade Solutions is a U.S. and Mexico customs brokerage that handles hazmat shipments, so this checklist covers what we ask for up front.
Information and documents to have ready
- The safety data sheet (SDS) for the product
- The UN or NA identification number, the proper shipping name, the hazard class and any subsidiary hazards, and the packing group
- The quantity and the type of packaging
- Shipping papers that show these details, with a 24-hour emergency contact number and emergency response information
- Labels, markings and placards on the packages and the vehicle, matching the documents
- The commercial invoice, the packing list and the transport document
- Any permits or approvals required for the product in the country of import or export
Rules on both sides
In the United States, the transport of hazardous materials is governed by the Department of Transportation hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR), and carriers must also meet federal motor carrier requirements. In Mexico, hazardous materials transport is regulated by the transportation authority (SICT) through its NOM standards. A hazmat shipment has to satisfy the rules on each side of the crossing, and the customs entry has to match the same product data.
Common problems that cause delays
- A missing or outdated SDS, or a product description that does not match the classification
- Packaging, labels or markings that do not match the shipping papers
- No 24-hour emergency contact on the papers
- A carrier that is not set up for hazmat on both sides
- A customs entry and a pedimento that describe the goods differently
How Eilan helps
- Hazmat shipments handled, including storage and handling at our Laredo warehouse
- U.S. and Mexico customs brokerage: we file the U.S. entry and the Mexican pedimento on the same shipment
- Bonded warehouse space and in-bond services, with 200,000 sq ft of warehouse capacity in Laredo, TX
- Permits and compliance handled with the entry
- A team that answers email 24/7
Related: hazmat, bonded warehouse and in-bond services · in-bond shipments explained · what is a pedimento.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to ship hazmat between the U.S. and Mexico?
You typically need the safety data sheet, the UN or NA number, proper shipping name, hazard class and packing group, the quantity and packaging, shipping papers with a 24-hour emergency contact, correct labels and placards, and the standard customs documents. Some products also need permits.
Is a safety data sheet required?
A current SDS is the starting point for classifying a hazardous product and is normally requested for any hazmat shipment. Send it with your quote request so the classification and documents can be checked before the freight moves.
Does Eilan handle hazmat shipments?
Yes. Eilan handles hazmat shipments for its customers, clears customs on both sides, and offers bonded warehouse space and in-bond services in Laredo, TX. Send the product details and we confirm what it takes.
How do I get a hazmat quote?
Call +1 (956) 717-4150, or email operations@eilantrade.com with the product name and SDS, quantity and packaging, origin and destination, and your dates.
Ready to move a hazmat shipment? Call +1 (956) 717-4150, email operations@eilantrade.com, or use our contact page.
Get a quote
Send us the shipment. We answer email 24/7.
Send these details and you get a straight answer on what it takes, how long it takes and what it costs:
- Product description and HS code, or the commercial invoice
- Quantity, weight and packaging
- Origin and destination
- Direction: into Mexico, into the U.S., or in-bond
- Your dates, and any special handling
En español: envío de carga peligrosa entre México y EE. UU.
Para enviar carga peligrosa (hazmat) entre México y Estados Unidos necesita normalmente: la hoja de datos de seguridad (SDS), el número ONU, el nombre apropiado de embarque, la clase de peligro y el grupo de embalaje, la cantidad y el tipo de empaque, documentos de embarque con un teléfono de emergencia 24 horas, etiquetas y placas correctas, y los documentos aduaneros. Eilan maneja carga peligrosa, despacha en ambos lados y ofrece almacén fiscal en Laredo. Llame al +1 (956) 717-4150.
¿Prefiere atención en español? Solicite su cotización en español or call +1 (956) 717-4150.
U.S.–Mexico trade updates
Rule changes, permit requirements and crossing conditions that affect your freight. Short, occasional, no sales pitch. · Actualizaciones de comercio EE. UU.–México: cambios de reglas, permisos y condiciones de cruce.