Home / Logistics Knowledge / Shipping Chemicals by Air: The Process
Air transport of chemicals follows strict IATA dangerous goods rules. Here is the end-to-end process from classification to booking.
Use the SDS to identify the UN number, hazard class (e.g., 3 flammable liquid, 8 corrosive, 6.1 toxic), packing group (I/II/III), and any special provisions. Classification drives everything else.
Some substances are forbidden by air entirely (e.g., certain toxics or explosives). Check the IATA Dangerous Goods List and any airline-specific prohibitions before promising a client a delivery.
Dangerous chemicals must be packed in UN-approved packaging marked with the packing group and a UN marking (e.g., 4G/Y/...). Inner and outer packaging, absorbent, and segregation rules all matter.
The IATA Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods states the UN number, proper shipping name, class, packing group, quantity, and packing instruction. It must be signed by a trained shipper.
Apply the correct hazard labels (flammable, corrosive, etc.), the Class 9 label where applicable, orientation arrows for liquids, and the shipper/consignee marks.
DG shipments often need the carrier's prior approval and may be subject to quantity caps per flight. Book early and provide the DGD draft to the airline.
Very small quantities may move as "limited quantity" (LQ) with reduced marking, or under consumer-commodity (excepted) provisions for certain finished products. These still require correct packaging but lighter documentation.
Only if they qualify as limited quantity or excepted; otherwise a signed Shipper's Declaration is mandatory.
Allow extra lead time - airline DG approval can take 1-3 business days on top of normal booking.
Small analytical samples may use the "samples of dangerous goods" provision with a reduced quantity, but still need proper packaging and marking.
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