Which Goods Require Air Freight Identification in China?

Apr 30,2024
Industry News
When transporting goods by air in China, which goods require an air transport appraisal report? What are the precautions that need to be paid attention to when importing and exporting by air

When flying in China, ensuring safety standards is crucial, especially when using the cargo holds of passenger aircraft. Due to the high safety standards of air cargo transport, certain types of cargo must provide an air freight identification report before being transported through the belly hold of a passenger aircraft. This appraisal is usually called an "Air Transport Condition Appraisal Report", or simply called an Air Transport Appraisal.

transporting goods by air

Which goods require an air transport appraisal report?

Magnetic items

According to the regulations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), cargo containing magnetic materials, such as magnets and motors, must pass safety inspections to avoid magnetic fields generated during flight that affect flight safety.

Powdery items

Because powders can be difficult to detect and pose a risk of misuse, all powder cargoes require air freight identification. For example, chemical powders need to be ensured that they will not leak or cause contamination during transportation.

Cargoes containing liquids and gases

Certain instruments or containers contain liquids and gases, including certain chemical reagents and compressed gases, and their packaging must be leak-proof and safe.

Chemicals

Chemicals, especially those that may be classified as dangerous goods, require proof that they are not dangerous goods before they can be transported by air as general cargo.

Oily items

Cargoes that may contain fuel or flammable liquids, such as engine oil or lubricants. Fasteners wedge anchors and threaded rods may also require air freight qualification if they contain or are coated with an oily substance.

Products with batteries

Since batteries may produce flammable gases during transportation, there is a risk of leakage or explosion, so special inspection is required.

What does the air freight appraisal report include?

Air freight appraisal reports usually include the name of the cargo and company logo, main physical and chemical properties, hazardous characteristics of the cargo, laws and regulations based on the appraisal, emergency response methods, etc. This comprehensive information is designed to provide transportation units with the detailed information they need to ensure traffic safety.

The Importance of Air Freight Identification

Air transport identification, namely the "Air Transport Conditions Identification Report", is a key document to ensure the safety of cargo air transportation. It provides shipping units with detailed security information on cargo, helping to correctly classify and identify potential risks.

What are the precautions for air import and export?

Things to note when importing and exporting by air include but are not limited to the following:

  1. Goods packaging

Ensure that the packaging of the goods complies with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations, especially fragile or perishable goods, which require appropriate packaging to ensure safe transportation. Make sure the packaging is appropriately labeled and marked with necessary handling instructions.

During the loading and unloading process, it is necessary to prevent the goods from being damaged or lost. Regularly check the condition of the goods and promptly notify the freight forwarding company and insurance company if there are any abnormalities.

  1. Cargo classification

Correct classification of goods, especially magnetic items, powder items, goods containing liquids and gases, chemicals, oily items and goods with batteries, etc., which usually require special air freight identification reports.

  1. Air transport regulations and identification

Transportation regulations for air import and export include flight selection, transportation restrictions, etc. When choosing a flight, factors such as the nature, quantity, and transportation time of the cargo need to be considered.

For special cargo, such as dangerous goods, fresh goods, etc., appropriate flights and transportation methods need to be selected. In addition, there are transportation restrictions for air import and export, such as size and weight restrictions on cargo.

4.Temperature control

For cargo that is sensitive to temperature fluctuations, such as perishable items or pharmaceuticals, ensure proper temperature control throughout the transport process. Use temperature-controlled containers or facilities to maintain the integrity of the cargo.

  1. Support

The outer packaging of goods. When booking, you should pay attention to whether the single piece of goods is large (generally, if the gross weight of a single piece exceeds 80KG, it must be palletized), or make an appointment with the airport in advance for palletizing.

  1. Document preparation

Prepare all necessary export documents, such as commercial invoices, packing lists, commodity inspection certificates, export material customs declaration forms, etc. When declaring goods, it is necessary to accurately declare the name, quantity, value and other information of the goods to avoid errors.

By adhering to the above precautions, you can ensure a smooth air import and export process and reduce potential risks and costs.

Air freight identification reports provide critical safety information to shipping units to help identify and address potential risks. For goods that need to be transported by air in China, air freight identification is a necessary step to ensure the safe transportation of the goods. If the cargo presents safety hazards or its classification is unclear, a detailed air freight identification report will be essential. This not only helps protect your cargo, but also ensures the safety of the entire air transport chain.

About the Author: Limi

About the Author: Limi

Limi is a content marketing expert at ChinaDivision, helping businesses and e-commerce sellers navigate the complexities of international shipping by providing actionable tips and comprehensive guides on logistics, shipping, and cargo transportation.