B2B spray paint buyers need 4 documents: MSDS (safety data), TDS (technical specs), REACH registration (EU), and UN1950 test report (shipping). If your OEM cannot provide all four, you cannot sell legally in those markets.
Understanding MSDS Sheets (Now Called SDS)
Safety Data Sheets contain 16 sections covering product ID, hazards, composition, first aid, firefighting, handling, PPE, physical properties, stability, toxicity, ecological, disposal, transport, and regulatory info. Buyers should check Section 2 for hazard statements (H-phrases), Section 7 for safe handling and storage, Section 8 for exposure controls and PPE, and Section 14 for transport information including UN numbers.
REACH Compliance for EU Market
REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization of Chemicals) requires all chemicals imported into EU above 1 ton per year to be registered with ECHA. For aerosol products, this means every substance in the formulation must be pre-registered. SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern) above 0.1% weight must be declared. Ask your OEM for REACH registration numbers and SCIP database submissions.
UN1950 for Dangerous Goods Shipping
Aerosol products fall under UN1950 (Aerosols, flammable). Shipping requires: UN-certified packaging (UN 4G/4F boxes), proper shipping marks and labels (Class 2.1 flammable gas), shipper's declaration for dangerous goods, and trained personnel for packaging. Air transport has stricter limits (IATA DGR). Sea transport follows IMDG Code. Your OEM should provide UN1950 test report (UN 38.3 for pressure testing).
What happens if my products do not have REACH registration?
Products can be held at EU customs. Fines range from 50,000 to 500,000 EUR depending on the country. In serious cases, products are destroyed and the importer faces criminal charges. Always verify REACH compliance before shipping to EU.