Hazmat Storage
Hazmat storage is the storage of products classified as hazardous materials, such as aerosols, flammable liquids, or lithium batteries, in areas and ways that meet fire codes and safety regulations.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
Hazmat rules limit which 3PLs and carrier services you can use, so classifying products correctly before choosing a warehouse avoids rejected inventory and fines. Many ecommerce products, including perfume, nail polish, aerosols, and devices with lithium batteries, are regulated for storage and shipping. Warehouses face fire code limits on how much they can store, and carriers set packaging and labeling rules. For example, a brand that sends 2,000 perfume units to a 3PL without hazmat approval may pay to have them removed and shipped elsewhere. Share each product's safety data sheet early.
Common questions
- Are perfume and nail polish considered hazmat?
- Often yes, because many contain flammable liquids, and carriers may allow them under limited quantity rules with specific marking. Confirm the classification using the product's safety data sheet before choosing a 3PL or carrier service.
- Can I ship lithium batteries with USPS, UPS, or FedEx?
- Usually yes, with conditions. Batteries packed in or with equipment are widely accepted under specific packaging, marking, and size limits, while standalone lithium batteries face much stricter rules, especially by air.
- Do 3PLs charge more for hazmat storage?
- Often yes. Hazmat-approved 3PLs may charge higher storage and handling fees, and carriers add hazardous materials surcharges on some services, so include both in your cost per order.