FedEx Dangerous Goods Acceptance Process: Step-by-Step Guide

FedEx hazardous product acceptance process overview

FedEx has a rigorous vetting process for the transport of dangerous goods. GENORDA, as a FedEx DG Operator Agent, is familiar with the complete acceptance process of FedEx. Knowing this process helps you to better plan the time of delivery and avoid delays due to incomplete information.

The whole process is usually divided into6 main phasesFrom the time of submission of information on the goods to their official departure, it generally takes 3-7 working days (depending on the complexity of the goods).

Phase I: submission of preliminary information

Information required

• Complete MSDS (Security Technical Note)
• Product details (Chinese, English, CAS)
• Projected quantity of goods delivered (net content per package, total number of packages, gross weight)
• Origin and destination
• Description of packing style (please provide a packing photograph if packaged)

GENORDA initial document review (schedule to be confirmed)

After receiving complete information, GENORDA arranges an initial DG document review. The schedule is confirmed by our service team:

• Confirm the correct UN number and hazard classification
• To determine whether the goods are within the reach of FedEx
• Preliminary assessment of packing requirements and transport programmes
• If you have any questions, confirm with you the details of the product

Phase II: Pre-trial submission of FedEx DG

After the preliminary assessment, GENORDA submits a formal DG audit application to the FedEx Hazardous Goods Department.

FedEx, audit of required documents

• MSDS English version
• Product technical instructions (if applicable)
• Description of packing specifications
• Detailed quantity of goods
• Destination Information

Time of review

FedEx DG pre-approval is usually required1-3 working daysFor complex goods (e.g. unclassified substances, new lithium batteries) may take longer.

Phase III: FedEx Audit Notice

A formal audit results will be issued upon the completion of the FedEx audit. The results usually fall into three categories:

Phase 4: Packaging Operations and Documentation Preparation

After receiving FedEx acceptance confirmation, the following are in the operational phase:

Packaging Operations

• Use of packagings meeting UN performance standards
• Proper placement of buffer and adsorption materials (if required)
• Correct hazard labels and tags on outer boxes
• If in, correctly mark the number of packagings

Documentation preparation

• Fill in the Shipper's Declaration.
• Preparation of commercial invoices (requirement to show real names and values)
• Get ready to load the manifests.
• Lithium Battery Cargo: Preparation of UN38.3 Test Summary
• Cold-chained goods: preparation of temperature records and dry ice declarations

GENORDA Second check

Before delivery, GENORDA's DG operator conducts a second inspection:

• Check for correct packaging UN tags
• Check Tab Paste Location and Direction
• Reconciliation of declaration information with actual cargo
• Check the integrity of the file

Phase 5: FedEx pick-up and delivery

Once all the packaging and documentation is ready, arrangements are made for FedEx to pick up the goods:

• FedEx driver comes to pick up the goods (or delivers to FedEx site)
• On-site handover, check number and appearance
• FedEx conducts exit security checks.
• Entry of goods into the FedEx international transport network

Phase VI: International transport and tracing

After the shipment, the following can be traced through the FedEx system:

• Hong Kong Export Clearing
• International air transport
• Destination clearance
• End Send

FAQ

Question 1: Why does it take so long for my goods to be cleared?

This review is extended by:

• MSDS incomplete or section 14 information missing
• Complex composition of the mixture. FedEx needs an additional assessment
• New types of dangerous goods or less UN numbers
• Special import restrictions in destination countries
• FedEx audit peak period (e.g., around holidays)

Question 2: Will the goods be shipped after the audit has been completed?

Following the adoption of the FedEx pre-approval proceedings, transportation is normally available. However, delays or refusals may still result from:

• The actual goods did not match the declared information
• Packaging does not meet the requirements or is damaged
• File Filling Error or Missing
• Temporary flight adjustments or space stress

Question 3: How long does the FedEx pre-approval period last?

FedEx DG pre-approval results usuallyNo clear validity periodHowever, the following needs to be re-examined:

• Changes in product formulation or composition
• Significant changes in the quantity or mode of packaging
• FedEx DG rule update
• More than 6 months from the last audit

Question 4: Can you directly export the goods using the FedEx account?

It is theoretically possible, but it requires attention:

• Your operator needs a DG training certificate.
• Shipper's Declaration requires signature by DG trained personnel.
• Packaging needs to meet UN performance standards
• The first shipment is proposed to be handled by a professional agent to avoid errors.

GENORDA's FedEx DG Service Advantages

• Acquainted with the FedEx DG audit process, with a reduction in the number of patches
• Dangerous goods operational coordination team, second inspection before shipment
• Hong Kong's own warerousing to support centralized receipt, packaging and shipment connection
• There are long-term channels of cooperation with the FedEx DG department
• A shipment assessment, no absolute shipping commitments.