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Special Cargo in Air Transport: Categories, Regulations & Best Practices

Views: 0     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2025-06-05      Origin: Site

1. Definition of Special Cargo

Special cargo denotes items that cannot be transported via standard air freight due to:

  • Hazardous properties (e.g., explosives, lithium batteries)

  • Perishability (e.g., vaccines, seafood)

  • High value (e.g., jewelry, >USD 100/kg)

  • Unusual dimensions/weight (e.g., machinery, >80kg/piece)

Regulatory bodies: IATA DGR, ICAO TI, and local aviation authorities (e.g., FAA, EASA).


2. Primary Categories & Requirements

CategoryExamplesCritical Rules
Dangerous GoodsLithium batteries, chemicalsUN-certified packaging, DGD form, and MSDS (e.g., UN3480 for Li-ion)
PerishablesFlowers, pharmaceuticalsTemperature-controlled packaging (e.g., Envirotainer); no dry ice on some airlines
ValuablesGold, electronicsTamper-proof seals, GPS tracking, and all-risk insurance
Outsize CargoAircraft parts (width >3m)Advance slot booking; Antonov AN-124 may be required
Live AnimalsPets, racehorsesIATA LAR compliance; health certificates; avoid transit in Middle East
Human RemainsCremated ashesSealed urn inside wooden box; death certificate

3. Critical Considerations

A. Documentation

  • Dangerous goods: Shipper¡¯s Declaration for Dangerous Goods (DGD) + UN test reports.

  • Plants/Food: Phytosanitary certificates (e.g., China¡¯s GACC Form A).

  • Pharmaceuticals: Chain of custody logs (2-8¡ãC monitoring for vaccines).

B. Costs & Lead Time

  • Priority surcharge: +30¨C50% for perishables/urgent shipments.

  • Pre-notification: 72 hours minimum for DG/live animals.

C. Prohibited Items

  • Absolute bans: Infectious substances (Category A, e.g., Ebola virus).

  • Restricted: Dry ice (max 200kg/flight), magnets (demagnetization proof required).


4. Best Practices

  1. Pre-shipment

    • Verify airline-specific restrictions (e.g., Emirates bans all lithium batteries in cargo).

    • Use IATA-compliant labels (e.g., Cargo Aircraft Only for DG).

  2. Packaging

    • Lithium batteries: Non-conductive inner packaging + 30% state of charge.

    • Glassware: Foam cushioning + ¡°FRAGILE¡± markings in 6cm font.

  3. Partner Selection

    • Opt for CEIV Pharma/Fresh certified carriers (e.g., Lufthansa Cargo) for sensitive goods.

Case Study: In 2023, undeclared lithium batteries caused a Qatar Airways 777 diversion, resulting in USD 50K fines.


5. Regulatory References

  • IATA DGR (65th Ed.): Global standard for dangerous goods.

  • FAA 49 CFR Part 175: US hazardous materials rules.

  • EU 2023/607: Revised live animal transport regulations.

Pro Tip: For high-value cargo, consider dedicated charters (e.g., Chapman Freeborn) to avoid delays.


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