Free Template

MSDS Verification Template

Run this template on every factory-issued MSDS before signing off on an order. The five-section checklist catches the documentation gaps that cause carrier rejection at the load port and customs holds at the destination.

Press Cmd+P (Mac) or Ctrl+P (Windows) and choose "Save as PDF" in the print dialog.

Format check

  • Document follows GHS 16-section format (numbered 1 through 16)
  • Document is in English (or destination-country language for EU non-English shipments)
  • Revision date is within the past 24 months
  • Document carries the factory legal entity name and address
  • Document references a specific product, not a product family

Section 1 (Identification)

  • Product name listed (matches the COA and commercial invoice)
  • CAS number listed and matches the COA
  • Recommended use stated
  • Supplier name and address present
  • Emergency phone number listed (24/7 contact)

Section 2 (Hazards identification)

  • GHS classification listed for each hazard category
  • Hazard pictograms listed
  • Signal word ("Danger" or "Warning") shown
  • Hazard statements (H-codes) listed
  • Precautionary statements (P-codes) listed

Section 14 (Transport information), most critical for DG cargo

  • UN number present and correct (cross-check against IMDG Volume 2)
  • Proper Shipping Name matches IMDG entry exactly (no trade names)
  • Hazard Class number listed (3 / 4 / 5 / 6.1 / 8 most common)
  • Subsidiary risk noted if applicable
  • Packing Group listed (I / II / III)
  • Marine Pollutant flag yes/no
  • EmS reference listed
  • Section 14 reconciles line-by-line with the DG Declaration

Section 15 (Regulatory information), destination-specific

  • TSCA Inventory listing status stated for US-bound cargo
  • REACH registration number stated for EU-bound cargo (or OR coverage referenced)
  • AICIS introduction category stated for Australia-bound cargo
  • Any restrictions, SVHC listings, or active risk evaluations noted

Common factory MSDS failures to catch

  • Generic boilerplate Section 14 pulled from a similar but not identical product
  • Section 15 silent on destination-country regulation (TSCA / REACH / AICIS)
  • MSDS in Chinese only with no English translation
  • Revision date over 24 months old
  • Trade name in Section 1 instead of substance name
  • Pictograms missing or wrong for the GHS classification

Sourzi · 20 years of chemical sourcing from Shanghai Pudong · sourcing@sourzi.com · sourzi.com/resources

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