MSDS, COA and TDS: Which Document You Actually Need
The difference between the three documents buyers confuse most, what each is legally and commercially for, and when to insist on all three.
These three documents are routinely requested interchangeably, and the confusion causes real delays at customs and at incoming inspection.
MSDS / SDS (safety data sheet)
Describes the hazards of the substance: classification, handling, storage, exposure controls, firefighting measures, transport classification and disposal. It is required for transport and workplace safety, and customs authorities in many markets will ask for it. It tells you nothing about whether the batch meets your specification.
COA (certificate of analysis)
Reports the measured test results for a specific batch against the specification. It is the document that confirms you received what you ordered. It is specific to a lot number and cannot be reused for another batch.
TDS (technical data sheet)
Describes the product's typical properties, applications and processing guidance. It is a general document covering the product line, not a batch. Typical values in a TDS are not specification limits and should never be used as acceptance criteria.
What to request, when
- •Before ordering — TDS to confirm the grade suits your application.
- •Before shipping — SDS for customs and transport, plus the batch COA.
- •On receipt — match the COA batch number to the packaging marking.
If a supplier sends a TDS when you asked for a COA, that is a signal worth noting. ## Need the documents or today's price? Send us the grade, quantity and destination port — we return a quotation with COA and MSDS attached. Email manager@fipolymer.com or use the inquiry form on this site.