What steps should be taken if the shipper lacks proper hazmat labeling?

• A. Proceed and ship with the current labels.
• B. Ignore labeling requirements.
• C. Ask the carrier to supply labels at delivery.
• D. Do not ship; obtain the correct labels before accepting.

Answer: (D)

Labels tell handlers and emergency responders what a package contains and how it must be handled, stored, and transported. If the shipper lacks proper hazmat labeling, the package cannot be moved safely or legally. The correct course is to halt the process and obtain the correct labels before accepting or shipping the item. This ensures the correct hazard class, UN number, and any battery-specific marks are visible and that the shipment complies with the applicable regulations (such as DOT or IATA rules for batteries). Moving forward with incomplete labeling or trying to obtain labels later would create regulatory violations and safety risks.