Who prepares shipping papers for hazmat shipments?

The preparation of shipping papers for hazardous materials shipments is primarily the responsibility of the manufacturers of those materials. As legal entities that produce and package hazardous goods, manufacturers are required to ensure that the shipping papers comply with various regulations, including the detailed identification of the material, handling instructions, and relevant safety information.

When preparing shipping papers, manufacturers must provide accurate and complete information to ensure that shippers, carriers, and receivers are aware of the hazards associated with the materials they are handling. This includes proper labeling and documentation to facilitate safe transportation and compliance with federal and state regulations.

While shipping managers and hazardous materials drivers play essential roles in the transportation process, they typically rely on the accurate information provided in the shipping papers prepared by the manufacturers. Federal government inspectors are involved in regulatory compliance and safety checks, but they do not prepare shipping papers themselves. Their role is to ensure that the papers are in order and that all regulations are followed during the shipping process.