Function Specific Training: Shipping Papers
Course Overview
The DOT Hazmat Function Specific — Shipping Papers course provides a practical, step-by-step guide for completing hazardous materials shipping papers. Shipping papers record what is being transported and supply first responders with critical information during an emergency.
Who should take this course?
- Shippers who prepare hazardous materials shipping papers
- Dispatch and administrative staff responsible for documentation
- Drivers and carriers who carry and present shipping papers
- Supervisors ensuring paperwork accuracy and compliance
Learning Objectives
- Understand the purpose and importance of accurate shipping papers for hazmat transport.
- Complete the basic description correctly: proper shipping name, hazard class, identification number, and packing group.
- Apply additional description requirements (e.g., quantity, packaging type, emergency contact).
- Execute the shipper’s certification and other required declarations.
- Present shipping papers to first responders and inspectors correctly and maintain required records.
Course Outline
- Regulatory background & purpose of shipping papers (HMR)
- Elements of the basic description and how to complete them
- Additional data requirements and special provisions
- Shipper’s certification and recordkeeping requirements
- Practical exercises: completing sample shipping papers
- Inspection, retention, and presentation to first responders
Prerequisites
Learners should have completed DOT Hazmat Transportation: General Awareness Training or possess equivalent knowledge prior to taking this function-specific course.
Format & Duration
- Format
- SCORM-compliant eLearning (LMS delivery) with downloadable certificate and printable job-aids
- Approx. Duration
- 60–75 minutes (self-paced, includes practical exercises)
- Assessment
- Scenario-based knowledge check and completion certificate upon passing
Compliance Statement
This course is designed to align with DOT HMR shipping paper requirements when implemented and documented by the employer. Maintain copies of shipping papers and training records to demonstrate compliance during audits and emergency response situations.
Upon completing the DOT Hazmat Function Specific Training: Shipping Papers course, learners will be able to:
- Comprehend the purpose and applicability of the Hazardous Materials Regulations.
- Identify documents that qualify as shipping papers.
- Explain the general requirements for preparing shipping papers and any exceptions.
- Describe the additional shipping description requirements for transporting hazardous materials by air, rail, highway, and water.
- Understand the purpose of the hazardous waste manifest and the necessary information it must contain.
