When selling on Amazon, some product categories are subject to special approval and documentation processes. In particular, cosmetics, cleaning, personal care and some food products may be classified as HAZMAT (hazardous materials). In this article, we discuss in detail what HAZMAT products are, how they are handled by Amazon and US Customs, and the export process for such products to be sent from Turkey to the US. We also explain what to do in FDA-related situations.
What is HAZMAT? Which Products are Dangerous Goods?
HAZMAT are products that may pose a risk to health, safety and the environment during transportation, storage or use. Amazon categorizes these products separately and requires additional documentation, compliance and logistics requirements. Example products include aerosol deodorants, alcohol-based colognes, sprays, lithium battery products and some cosmetic formulations.
How Does the Amazon HAZMAT Process Work?
Before sending a product to Amazon FBA, it can be marked as HAZMAT. In this case:
- MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) document is requested
- HAZMAT review process starts (2-7 days)
- If the product is approved, it is directed to the Amazon HAZMAT warehouse
- If not compliant, non-FBA shipping or sales are banned
HAZMAT and FDA Compliance in the US Customs Process
Upon entry into the US, products containing hazardous substances are inspected by both customs and the FDA. But the good news is: Our representative in the US can perform HAZMAT customs clearance of such products directly in the US. In this way, you do not have the stress of extra documents when shipping from Turkey, and customs clearance is completed quickly in the US.
Is FDA Registration Required? Situation with HAZMAT Products
The FDA registration requirement varies by product type. You can see a summary table below:
| Product Type | Is FDA Registration Required? | Is HAZMAT Treatment Required? |
| Cosmetic spray | Yes | Yes |
| Food supplements (tablets) | Yes | No. |
| Alcohol-based cologne | Yes | Yes |
| Cleaning chemicals | No. | Yes |
| Electric device + lithium battery | No (if not FDA) | Yes |
How Does the Logistics Process Work for HAZMAT Products?
There are special labeling, packaging and notification requirements for the transportation of products classified as HAZMAT. The products must be packaged in accordance with international transportation rules such as IATA and DOT. Our solution partner in the US can customs clear these products directly in the US and make them ready for the Amazon FBA process.
Our Logistics Service that Makes a Difference in Perfume and HAZMAT Product Delivery to the USA
Products containing flammable ingredients such as perfume, cologne, deodorant are classified as high-risk products (HAZMAT) in both air transportation and Amazon FBA processes. For this reason, most logistics companies either do not accept these products at all or impose high additional costs.
However, thanks to the special HAZMAT logistics support we offer as Export Partners Turkey together with our solution partner in the USA:
- We organize the transportation of products such as perfumes, colognes, etc. with customs clearance within the US. → This eliminates the risk of restrictions and rejection from Turkey.
- We manage HAZMAT-compliant labeling, packaging and transportation processes. → Products are made ready with transport documents and box markings in accordance with IATA and DOT rules.
- We provide direct delivery to Amazon FBA warehouses. → The process is uninterrupted even if your products are HAZMAT in the Amazon system.
- We offer consultancy on MSDS certificate, transportation class and appropriate warehouse planning. → Documents that Amazon may request are prepared in advance, the risk of rejection is minimized.
- We offer integrated solution for FDA + HAZMAT logistics + Amazon sale. → Customs, registration, warehousing and delivery are solved one-stop.
Who Are We Addressing?
- Perfume manufacturers
- Cosmetics exporters
- Brands producing aerosol or pressurized spray products
- Turkish entrepreneurs who want to sell HAZMAT products on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an FDA certificate? Is there really a "certificate"?
No, technically there is no physical FDA certificate. What is done is the registration process for the FDA process.
Is FDA registration mandatory?
Yes, FDA registration and U.S. Agent designation is mandatory for food, cosmetics or supplements.
Does an Amazon sale require FDA registration?
Amazon requires FDA registration and label compliance, especially for food and cosmetics.
What is MSDS for HAZMAT products?
An MSDS is a safety data sheet that specifies the ingredients and hazard classes of the product. Amazon can make it mandatory.
How can I find out if my product is HAZMAT?
It is determined according to the content. In case of doubt, you can contact us to have it checked.
Can HAZMAT products be sent to Amazon FBA?
Yes, but they are directed to private warehouses and prior approval must be obtained.
