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Understanding Chemical Shipping & Hazmat Fees
How container sizes and regulations affect your shipping costs
Recommended
📦 Quart/Liter Sizes
- ✅ Often qualifies for Limited Quantity exemption*
- ✅ May ship via air (product dependent)
- ✅ Typically lower or no additional shipping costs
- ✅ Faster delivery options available
- ✅ All major carriers accept these sizes
🛢️ Larger Containers
- ⚠️ Subject to full hazmat regulations
- ⚠️ Ground shipping only
- ⚠️ Additional carrier fees apply
- ⚠️ 5-7 business days typical delivery
- ⚠️ Specialized carriers required
*Shipping eligibility depends on specific chemical classification, flash point, and other regulatory factors.
💰 Real Example: MEK Shipping to Robins Air Force Base, GA
See how container size affects your total cost for the exact same amount of product
Save $37.82!
4 Quarts of MEK
Product Cost:
$43.00
UPS Ground:
$16.23
Hazmat Fee:
$0.00
Total:
$59.23
- ✅ No hazmat fees
- ✅ UPS Next Day Air available ($258.92)
- ✅ Ships in 1-3 business days
- ✅ Same total volume (1 gallon)
1 Gallon of MEK
Product Cost:
$40.00
UPS Ground (includes hazmat):
$57.05
Hazmat Fee:
Included above
Total:
$97.05
- ⚠️ Hazmat fees included
- ❌ No air shipping available
- ⚠️ Ground only (3-5 days)
- ⚠️ Limited carrier options
The Math is Simple: 4 quarts = 1 gallon of product, but you save $37.82 on every order!
See savings for other popular chemicals
Understanding DOT Limited Quantity Exemptions (49 CFR § 173.150)
Limited Quantity Exemption
Under DOT regulations, hazardous materials in smaller containers may qualify for Limited Quantity exemptions, allowing relaxed shipping requirements. Maximum container sizes vary by hazard class and packing group:
• Most chemicals: 1L or less per container
• Lower risk materials: Up to 5L per container
• Applies to flammables, corrosives, oxidizers, and more
These exemptions reduce shipping restrictions and costs.
Air Transport via UPS
Certain chemicals qualify for air shipping via UPS when meeting Limited Quantity requirements. Air eligibility depends on UN classification, Packing Group, and container size. Products without air restrictions ship faster.
Ground Shipping via UPS
Larger containers and certain hazmat classifications require ground shipping only. UPS Ground provides reliable service for these shipments with appropriate hazmat documentation and handling.
💡 Smart Shopping Tips
Buy Multiple Quarts
Need a gallon of acetone or methanol? Consider buying 4 quarts instead. You'll get the same volume while potentially avoiding hazmat fees and enjoying faster shipping via UPS.
Check Product Details
Each Alliance Chemical product page shows the UN number and Packing Group if applicable. Products with UN numbers (especially non-PG III) typically require hazmat fees for containers larger than 1 quart/liter.
Plan Ahead for Bulk Orders
For 5-gallon pails, 55-gallon drums, or larger orders, allow extra time for ground shipping. We ship from outside Austin, Texas with 1-2 days processing time.
🚛 Bulk & Commercial Shipping Options
LTL (Less Than Truckload)
For orders between 150-10,000 lbs. We work with premium carriers including XPO, Saia, ABF, and Southeastern Freight Lines (SEFL) to ensure safe, compliant delivery of your chemicals.
FTL (Full Truckload)
For large volume orders requiring dedicated truck space. Full truckload shipments offer the most economical per-unit shipping costs for bulk chemical orders.
Shipping Timeline
Processing: 1-2 business days
Ships from: Warehouse outside Austin, Texas
Delivery: 1-5 business days depending on your location
Stock: Most products in stock and ready to ship
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a product requires hazmat fees?
Look for the UN number and Packing Group on each product page. Products with UN numbers (especially those that aren't Packing Group III) typically require hazmat fees when shipped in containers larger than 1 quart/liter. Alliance Chemical carries hundreds of chemicals including acetone, methanol, acids, and solvents - each with specific shipping requirements shown on their product pages.
Can I order multiple quarts instead of a gallon to avoid fees?
Absolutely! This is a smart strategy many of our customers use. For example, ordering 4 x 1-quart bottles gives you the same volume as 1 gallon, but often ships faster and cheaper since each container qualifies as Limited Quantity.
Why do hazmat fees exist?
The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires special handling, documentation, and safety measures for larger quantities of hazardous materials. These regulations protect transportation workers, the public, and the environment. The fees cover specialized equipment, training, and compliance costs.
What exactly is "Limited Quantity" under DOT regulations?
Limited Quantity is a DOT exemption for hazardous materials packaged in smaller containers. The exemption applies to various hazard classes including flammables, corrosives, oxidizers, and toxics. Container size limits vary by material classification and packing group, typically ranging from 0.5L to 5L. When materials qualify, they can ship with relaxed requirements, reducing costs and often allowing air transport.
Can I really save $37 by buying quarts instead of gallons?
Yes! As shown in our MEK example above, ordering 4 quarts instead of 1 gallon saves $37.82 in shipping costs. The product price difference ($43 vs $40) is more than offset by avoiding the hazmat fee. This applies to most of our flammable chemicals including acetone, methanol, and isopropanol.
Why is shipping $57 for a gallon but only $16 for quarts?
Gallon containers of flammable liquids like MEK require full hazmat handling, documentation, and specialized transport. The $57.05 includes approximately $40 in hazmat fees. Quart sizes often qualify for Limited Quantity exemptions under DOT regulations, allowing standard shipping at just $16.23.
What shipping carriers does Alliance Chemical use?
Standard Shipping: UPS Ground and UPS Air
Bulk/Commercial: XPO, Saia, ABF, and Southeastern Freight Lines (SEFL)
Hazmat fees: Carrier fees typically range from $30-$150 per shipment. These are pass-through carrier charges, not Alliance Chemical markup. Choose Limited Quantity sizes when possible to avoid these fees.
Ready to Save on Shipping?
Browse our selection of quart and liter sizes for the most economical shipping options.
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