UPS will begin transmitting information on hazardous materials electronically — by phone or fax — starting June 1, the company announced Thursday.
The new method, authorized by the Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration, affects small package tractor-trailer operations, the movement of small package shipments between UPS facilities and deliveries by tractor trailer.
UPS said that with the new procedure, when an inspector or emergency responder needs hazardous material shipping papers, drivers will provide a phone number to call for access to documents contained in the shipment, which will help streamline information.
“We made it a priority to cut red tape and improve efficiency and moved expeditiously with this special permit,” said PHMSA Administrator Cynthia Quarterman in a statement. “Sharing hazmat information electronically will improve transportation efficiency without sacrificing public safety.”
UPS to report hazmat information electronically
