Lion will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026. Online training support is available via support@lion.com.
Search

Don’t Get Burned: Shipping Elevated-temperature Materials

Posted on 5/20/2014 by Lion Staff

Don't Get Burned Shipping Elevated-temperature Materials 
 
In the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR), the US DOT sets specific requirements for elevated-temperature materials. Simply put, these are materials shipped at high temperatures. Common examples of elevated-temperature materials include asphalt and roofing tar.
 
While these materials are generally shipped the same way as other hazmat, a few additional requirements apply. Knowing the rules for these materials is critical to ensure your shipments comply with the HMR and will reach your customers safely and on time. 
 
Classifying Elevated-temperature Materials 
 
Defined by the US DOT at 49 CFR 171.8, an elevated-temperature material is a material "which, when offered for transportation or transported in a bulk packaging:
 
  1. Is in a liquid phase and at a temperature at or above 100°C (212°F);
  2. Is in a liquid phase with a flash point at or above 38°C (100°F) that is intentionally heated and offered for transportation or transported at or above its flash point; or
  3. Is in a solid phase at a temperature at or above 240°C (464°F)."
Unique Marking and Labeling Requirements 
 
Additional communication requirements apply to elevated-temperature materials as well. Each bulk packaging containing material must be marked on two or four sides with the word "HOT." There are two options for displaying this marking:
 
  • Either display the word "HOT" in the center of an otherwise blank placard-sized marking; or
HOT DOT hazmat marking placard for elevated temperature materials
  • Display the word "HOT" in the upper third of a white square-on-point device that also displays the identification number of the hazmat. [49 CFR 172.325]
HOT hazmat marking placard for elevated temperature materials
 
The markings must be displayed in association with the usual hazard placards.
 
Shipping Paper Requirements
 
In addition to communication requirements for bulk packages, the word "HOT" must also appear on shipping papers. It must immediately precede the Proper Shipping Name, unless the words "elevated temperature" are already included in the Proper Shipping Name. [49 CFR 172.203(n)] 
 
Update your hazmat ground, air, and ocean shipping certifications with Lion Technology's Complete Multimodal Training Workshops. The complete four-day program covers everything shipping managers need to know to ensure shipments are classified, named, packaged, marked, labeled, loaded, unloaded, and documented in line with the latest 49 CFR, IATA, and IMO requirements.

Tags: DOT, hazmat shipping, marks and labels

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Lion's information is very thorough and accurate. Presenter was very good.

Melissa Little

Regulatory Manager

The instructor made the class enjoyable. He presented in a very knowledgeable, personable manner. Best class I've ever attended. Will take one again.

John Nekoloff

Environmental Compliance Manager

The instructor took a rather drab set of topics and brought them to life with realistic real-life examples.

Tom Berndt

HSE Coordinator

I like Lion's workshops the best because they really dig into the information you need to have when you leave the workshop.

Tom Bush, Jr.

EHS Manager

I attended training from another provider and learned absolutely nothing. Lion is much better. Hands down.

Nicole Eby

Environmental Specialist

Energetic/enthusiastic! Made training enjoyable, understandable and fun!

Amanda Walsh

Hazardous Waste Professional

Convenient; I can train when I want, where I want.

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

Lion was very extensive. There was a lot of things that were covered that were actually pertaining to what I do and work with. Great Job. I will be coming back in three years!

Tony Petrik

Hazmat Shipping Professional

The instructor was very very informative, helpful, understandable and pleasant. This course answered many questions I had, being new to this industry.

Frances Mona

Shipping Manager

You blew the doors off the competition!

Stephen Bieschke

Facilities Manager

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Just starting out with shipping lithium batteries? The four fundamental concepts in this guide are the place to start.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.