Shipping & Transporting Research Materials

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Shipping & Transporting Research Materials

Shipping & Transporting Research Materials

Box and Packing Tape

We help lab researchers manage dangerous good shipping and transportation by ground, air, and sea, including chemical, radioactive, and biological materials. Our guidance helps you comply with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, International Airline Transportation Association (IATA) guidelines, and maritime law.

Transporting certain materials may require import or export permits or other documentation from federal agencies.

Other permits and regulations may apply depending on the materials you're shipping or transporting, including:

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) import permits
  • Fish & Wildlife Service permits
  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA) import permits
  • United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) transport, import, and export regulations

Resources

Biological Material Shipping Classification Table
Biological Materials, Infectious Substances, and Dry Ice Local Transport Guidance
Liquid Nitrogen Dry Shippers
Preparing Biological Shipments Flowchart
Regulated Biological Materials Permits
Research Material Shipment and Transport Manual
Transport of Research Materials Between Campuses Request Form
Triple Packing Quick Guide

Department Contact

ehs_researchtransport@harvard.edu

Did You Know?

September is National Preparedness Month. Do you know where to find the emergency procedures (with specific emergency contacts) posted in your lab and what you would do if immediate action is needed? An online version of the general Emergency Response Guide for your campus is also available through the Emergency Guidance Program.