Hazmat: Hazmat, or hazardous materials, are substances that can pose a risk to health, safety or property during transport. Hauling them is regulated through placarding, shipping papers and driver endorsements.
Why it matters to owner operators
Hauling hazmat usually requires a hazmat endorsement on your CDL, which involves a background check and security threat assessment, plus higher insurance minimums and training.
Example
A driver with a hazmat endorsement hauls a placarded load of chemicals and carries the required shipping papers.
Related terms
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