Articles on: Documentation

What is an MSDS? A Must-Have for International Shipping from South Africa

Shipping supplements, cosmetics, oils, or anything with chemical ingredients? Then you’ve likely come across the term MSDS. Here's what it means, and why it matters for South African businesses exporting globally.


🧪 What is an MSDS?


MSDS stands for Material Safety Data Sheet (also called an SDS – Safety Data Sheet). It's a key document that outlines:


  • Chemical composition and ingredients
  • Potential health, fire, or environmental hazards
  • Storage and handling precautions
  • First-aid and emergency instructions
  • Proper disposal methods
  • Transportation classifications (UN number, hazard class, packing group)

Think of it as a passport for your product - it tells couriers and customs what’s inside and how to handle it safely.


✈️ Why South African Exporters Need an MSDS


When you’re shipping overseas with couriers like TUNL Economy, FedEx, or UPS, they use your MSDS to decide if the product is considered Dangerous Goods (DG). Without one, your parcel might get flagged, delayed, or rejected.


An MSDS helps ensure:

  • Proper packaging and labelling
  • No surprises at customs (or unnecessary delays)
  • Safe transit by air, land, or sea
  • Compliance with international safety regulations
  • Protection for courier staff and other parcels in transit

Whether you're exporting from Joburg or Cape Town, skipping the MSDS step could derail your entire delivery.


📦 Products That Typically Need an MSDS


🧴 Cosmetic Products

  • Essential oils (lavender, citrus, tea tree)
  • Fragrances and colognes
  • Hair sprays or facial mists
  • Nail polish or acetone-based removers
  • Serums or creams with retinol or acids


🟢 Ingestibles & Supplements

  • Herbal or protein powders
  • Vitamin tablets or capsules
  • Probiotics or enzyme-based blends
  • CBD products (if export is permitted)
  • Alcohol-based tinctures or solvents


🧼 Skincare & Household Items

  • Cleaning sprays or surface disinfectants
  • Diffuser liquids or room sprays
  • Hand sanitiser or isopropyl solutions
  • Scented candles with essential oils
  • Soaps or shampoos with active chemicals


🔍 Even if your product feels “harmless,” or is made with natural ingredients, the ingredients list might include flammable liquids, reactive agents, or volatile compounds—so double-check.


📝 Where to Get an MSDS

Here's how to source one:

  • From your manufacturer or supplier
  • If you're a white label or reseller, request it from the original producer
  • If you're the formulator, consult a qualified chemist or regulatory consultant to prepare one

It must be official and accurate - DIY summaries or guesses won’t cut it as this will cause delays and potential issues with your shipment.


📤 How to Submit an MSDS to TUNL

If we’ve requested one for your shipment:

  1. Get the official MSDS in PDF format
  2. Email it to support@tunl.to
  3. Our team will review it and advise whether the item is safe to ship or needs special handling

We’re here to help you avoid red flags and keep your exports moving.


💡 Pro Tip: Watch for These “Red Flag” Ingredients

These common compounds could classify your product as DG:

  • Ethanol or isopropyl alcohol
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Menthol or camphor
  • Limonene (found in citrus oils)
  • Compressed gases or pressurised sprays
  • Lithium (in devices or supplements)

If you’re unsure, ask your supplier to confirm or provide the MSDS directly.


🤔 Still Unsure if You Need an MSDS?

If you’re exporting products from South Africa and want to stay compliant, fast, and frustration-free, we’re here to help.

📩 Email support@tunl.to and let’s sort it out together.



⚠️ Important Disclaimers


✅ Checking with TUNL is Always Worth It: If you’re unsure whether your MSDS is acceptable, it’s best to check in with the TUNL team first. We’ll liaise with the relevant courier to confirm if your product can be shipped and under what conditions.


⏳ Please note: This process may take time - sometimes up to a week - depending on the carrier and product type. We’ll keep you in the loop every step of the way, and we’ll do everything we can to keep your shipment on track.


💸 You’re Responsible If You Skip This Step: If you ship without checking in and your parcel is delayed, destroyed, or returned, you’ll be responsible for any costs or losses involved. Rather play it safe - send your MSDS to us before shipping.


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Updated on: 11/06/2025

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