Whether you’re preparing shipping papers or checking certification requirements, this guide breaks down shipping hazardous materials by air step by step. Think of it as your go-to playbook: complete with real examples, clear explanations, and practical tips to help you handle hazardous material shipments like a pro.
What are hazardous materials in air shipping?
Hazardous materials (hazmat), also known as dangerous goods, encompass a range of substances including flammable liquids, gases, corrosive substances, and lithium batteries. The United Nations classifies all dangerous goods into nine hazard classes. Each item falls into at least one category, and knowing your cargo’s classification is essential.
In air freight, there are two main types you need to know: fully regulated hazardous materials and limited quantity shipments.
- Fully regulated hazardous materials must meet strict packaging, labeling, shipping papers, and airline approval requirements. For example, bulk lithium-ion batteries fall into this category due to their fire risk.
- Limited quantity shipments, by contrast, apply to smaller amounts of dangerous goods. They face fewer restrictions, but still demand proper packaging and documentation. Examples include small aerosol cans, perfumes, or limited quantities of cleaning agents.
If you’re unsure about your cargo, contact ASLG. Our experts can help accurately classify your hazardous materials and ensure smooth international shipping.
Regulations for shipping hazardous materials by air
Transporting hazardous materials internationally requires compliance with several regulatory frameworks:
- IATA DGR (International Air Transport Association Dangerous Goods Regulations): Sets detailed packaging, labeling, and documentation rules for air shipments. These regulations apply to most commercial airlines worldwide.
- DOT (U.S. Department of Transportation): Oversees the transport of hazardous materials to, from, and within the United States. DOT rules define packaging standards, classification requirements, and documentation for both fully regulated and limited quantity shipments.
- ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization): Provides global standards for aviation safety, including hazardous materials transport.
Every shipment must have a valid hazardous materials shipping certification to confirm compliance with applicable regulations. You must ensure that proper shipping names appear in the hazardous materials table. This table includes UN numbers, hazard classes, packing instructions, and any country-specific exceptions.
Packaging & documentation requirements
- Use only approved hazardous material shipping boxes, designed to withstand pressure, vibration, and rough handling during transit.
- Display the correct hazard labels and markings on each package, including orientation arrows, Cargo Aircraft Only label, flammable symbols, and UN certification marks.
- For fragile or reactive substances, include secondary containment, cushioning materials, or temperature-controlled packaging as needed.
- Always verify that the packaging meets both airline and country-specific regulations, since rules can vary for international shipments.
In addition to packaging, documentation is a legal requirement. Beyond standard shipping documents, hazardous shipments require a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods.
Essential information on hazardous materials shipping papers includes:
- The UN number and proper shipping name (e.g., UN3480 LITHIUM ION BATTERIES).
- Hazard class and division
- Packing group
- Quantity and type of packaging
- Emergency contact information
Depending on the type of hazardous material, you may need additional documents:
- Lithium batteries: Include the UN38.3 test report to certify that the batteries meet international safety standards.
- Aerosols and flammable liquids: May require certificates of flammability or limited quantity endorsements.
- Corrosive chemicals: Often need a chemical composition certificate and corrosion test documentation.
Our experts can guide you through documentation verification and ensure your hazardous materials comply with all regulatory requirements.
Step-by-step process for shipping hazardous materials – Real case study
We recently handled a shipment of lithium-ion batteries from Shenzhen, China, to the United States. This case demonstrates the entire process of shipping hazardous materials by air safely and efficiently.
1. Classification & identification
We confirmed the UN number (UN3481) and classification of the lithium batteries, ensuring that the correct shipping names were listed in the hazardous materials table.
2. Documentation preparation
Our team gathered all required certifications, including the MSDS and UN38.3 test report, to meet international regulations for hazardous materials shipments.
3. Packaging & labeling
We used certified UN standard shipping boxes, applied the proper hazard labels, and added UN certification marks. Each package underwent a double check against airline handling standards to ensure safety.
4. Airline approval
We submitted the documentation and packaging details to the airline. Strict adherence to regulations allowed the airline to approve the shipment promptly, avoiding any delays.
5. Customs clearance & delivery
We coordinated factory pickup, departure from Shenzhen airport, and customs clearance in the U.S., ensuring smooth handoff to the consignee. Real-time updates kept the client informed at every step.
By following this SOP process, the shipment arrived safely and on time. It also shows how an experienced freight forwarder can simplify hazardous cargo shipping while ensuring full compliance.
ASLG: Your trusted hazmat shipping expert
At Airsupply, we specialize in shipping hazardous materials by air from China to worldwide destinations. We hold official IATA certification and dangerous goods transportation licenses, giving us full authorization to handle even the most sensitive cargo.
With over 100+ hazardous shipments managed every week, our team combines deep industry knowledge with hands-on experience. We also support door-to-door delivery and customs clearance, guaranteeing your shipment arrives safely and on schedule.
Q1: How do I find the proper shipping name?
Q2: Are there weight limits for lithium batteries?
A: Yes. Under PI 965, lithium-ion batteries shipped by cargo aircraft cannot exceed 35 kg per package.
