APT Process for Obtaining a Recommended Shipping Classification

Class 1 Materials

1. Applicant submits a new request for classification using the Start A New Request page.

For substances, please also include manufacturing details, MSDS, and sensitivity data, if available.
For articles, please also include article description, detailed drawings, net explosive weight (NEW), gross weight, part number, number of articles per package, package dimensions, and description of packaging materials .

2. APT analyzes information to determine required classification method.

APT will review the new request – this process length depends on the type of classification and completeness of information provided.
Classification may be obtained from methods that do not require testing.
APT will provide estimate indicating classification method to be used.

3. Applicant accepts the estimate and agrees upon classification method as well as testing location.

If testing is not necessary, APT will assess the data provided by the applicant and provide a report with the classification recommendation.

4. Receive a tentative shipping classification.

If testing is required, APT will issue a tentative shipping classification for the applicant to ship samples to the test laboratory.
The tentative shipping classification will be determined from analysis of information provided.

5. Applicant ships the sample(s) to the address specified in agreement with APT.

To begin the shipping process, please contact Darlene Davenport at (256) 327-4018 or submit a shipping request. A Bill of Lading must be sent to APT three days prior to sample delivery.
- For a sample that already has a shipping classification, follow the shipping instructions of that classification.
- For a tentative shipping classification, follow the shipping instructions in 49-CFR 173.56 (d).
- For special permit DOT-SP-8451 (previously exemption DOT-E-8451), follow the shipping instructions for that exemption. (This special permit authorizes the transport of not more than 25 grams of certain class 1 materials in a special shipping container).
- For all other classifications, follow shipping instructions in 49 CFR 173.56 (e).

6. APT will test the sample according to the estimate provided and any subsequent coordination.

A timeline for testing will be coordinated in advance.
A test report and recommended shipping classification letter will be issued to the customer after completion of testing.

7. Submit the entire package to DOT per 49 CFR.

Follow the instructions on the recommended shipping classification letter.
Submit to the DOT the entire package which was submitted to APT, including the report and recommended shipping classification letter.
DOT will issue an EX number.