Special Cargo in Air Transport: Categories, Regulations & Best Practices
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
| Category | Examples | Critical Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Dangerous Goods | Lithium batteries, chemicals | UN-certified packaging, DGD form, and MSDS (e.g., UN3480 for Li-ion) |
| Perishables | Flowers, pharmaceuticals | Temperature-controlled packaging (e.g., Envirotainer); no dry ice on some airlines |
| Valuables | Gold, electronics | Tamper-proof seals, GPS tracking, and all-risk insurance |
| Outsize Cargo | Aircraft parts (width >3m) | Advance slot booking; Antonov AN-124 may be required |
| Live Animals | Pets, racehorses | IATA LAR compliance; health certificates; avoid transit in Middle East |
| Human Remains | Cremated ashes | Sealed 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°C monitoring for vaccines).
B. Costs & Lead Time
Priority surcharge: +30–50% 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
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).
Packaging
Lithium batteries: Non-conductive inner packaging + 30% state of charge.
Glassware: Foam cushioning + “FRAGILE” markings in 6cm font.
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.