IMDS for Beginners
New to IMDS? Start here. A plain-language overview of what IMDS is, how it works and how we can help Before explaining the IMDS system, let's first clarify what IMDS is not. Many people confuse IMDS with other types of material and safety documentation, which can lead to misunderstandings and errors..
01
What is IMDS?
IMDS (International Material Data System) is the automotive industry's material data system. Suppliers use it to report the materials contained in the components they supply.
03
How companies access IMDS
Companies register for access to IMDS. Once registered, they can create MDS and send them to their customers.
02
What is an IMDS data sheet?
An IMDS Material Data Sheet (MDS) describes a part's structure - components, materials and substances - and receives its own IMDS ID.
04
Why IMDS matters
Automotive customers request IMDS submissions from their suppliers. Accepted submissions are part of meeting customer requirements.
COMPARISON
IMDS vs MSDS / SDS
SDS / MSDS
Safety Data Sheet
- Describes hazards and safe handling of a chemical product
- A document, typically a PDF
- Used across many industries
IMDS
Material Data Sheet in IMDS
- Describes the full material composition of an
automotive part - Created and shared inside the IMDS system
- Specific to the automotive supply chain
An IMDS submission provides information about the material composition of a component, including the substances used in that material. This information helps automotive companies and their suppliers:
- Meet customer and regulatory material reporting requirements
- Identify and manage restricted or declarable substances
- Maintain accurate material composition records
- Support vehicle recycling and end-of-life requirements
- Improve transparency throughout the automotive supply chain
In simple terms:
An SDS/MSDS tells you about the safety hazards of a substance or product.
An IMDS submission tells the automotive supply chain what materials and substances are contained in a component.
How Do You Access the IMDS System?
The IMDS system can be accessed through the official IMDS website at www.mdsystem.com.
Before you can use IMDS, your company must be registered in the system. Once registered, your authorized users can access IMDS using their assigned login credentials.
Need Help Setting Up Your Company in IMDS?
If your company is new to IMDS, we can help.
IMDS Experts can assist you with checking your company's IMDS registration status and setting up your company in the IMDS system.
Contact us to learn more about our IMDS registration and consulting services.
How Can IMDS Experts Inc Help Improve Your Company's Productivity?
Managing IMDS internally can require significant time and effort, particularly when your team has to create MDSs, review material compositions, respond to customer requests, make corrections, and manage submissions.
Our IMDS professionals can manage your IMDS activities and compliance requirements on your behalf, allowing your employees to focus on their core business responsibilities.
By outsourcing your IMDS activities to experienced professionals, your company can:
- Reduce the time spent managing IMDS submissions
- Reduce the administrative workload on your engineering and compliance teams
- Improve the accuracy and consistency of your IMDS data
- Respond to customer IMDS requests more efficiently
- Reduce the risk of submission errors and rejections
- Free up valuable internal resources
Let our experienced IMDS professionals manage your IMDS requirements while your team focuses on its core business.
Contact us today for a quick IMDS proposal.