Air transport grows in popularity for all types of merchandise and materials, including dangerous goods shipping. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) sets the standards for hazardous material transportation on airplanes. This includes essential identification, labeling, and documentation, training for hazardous material handling, and the responsibilities of everyone involved with the entire process. If your company deals with items on the list of dangerous goods, become familiar with the IATA regulations and get the help of an air freight forwarding and logistics company who can handle everything for you.
What are Considered Dangerous Goods?
Although checking US DOT, IATA, and other regulatory group documents is necessary to get a complete list. Dangerous goods shipping usually covers anything that is:
- Flammable
- Corrosive
- Infectious
- Explosive
- Oxidative
Or otherwise potentially dangerous to people or the environment.
Hazardous Materials Require Specific Packaging
Air freight considered hazardous or dangerous must comply with the UN’s performance packaging standards. There are different size and container requirements and labeling needs specific to different materials and transportation methods. Every package in the shipment must clearly show a hazmat informational label and markings. This helps keep everyone safe in the case of problems.
Dangerous Goods Shipping Requires Proper Documentation
All air freight shipments that contain dangerous goods must include full and accurate documentation and labels on the containers themselves. The product manufacturer should offer a safety data sheet, clearly outlining the dangers and how to handle any issues that arise. These include spills, explosions, fires, or personal contact with the substance or objects. The IATA Shipper declaration for dangerous goods is a one-page form that covers similar details and handling specifics. This is passed from the air freight forwarding company and airline to land-based transport companies for end-mile logistics.
Get Help from Dangerous Goods Shipping Experts
Making a mistake with hazardous materials or dangerous goods packaging, labeling, and documentation could result in absolute disaster. Not only for the people who have to handle the cargo but also for the entire airplane and air freight transportation industry. The smallest risk is complete damage or destruction of the goods that necessitates replacement by the source company. This creates extra expense and wasted time. The biggest risks are unimaginably bad.
Due to the challenges inherent in the dangerous goods air shipping process, it makes sense to get help. Choose an experienced, knowledgeable, and trusted logistics company to handle all the requirements and safety precautions for you. Call the experts who understand the IATA manual front to back. Those who have access to all necessary forms, labeling capabilities and understand the best practices for managing hazardous air cargo.
The multi-faceted expertise of Amekar Logistics provides the peace of mind and professionalism necessary for dangerous goods shipping. Contact us for more information, whether you choose air shipping or other transportation options. Our team of experts can discuss your best options based on the type of goods or materials you need to ship.