Special cargo in air shipping refers to shipments that require special handling, packaging, or transportation due to their unique characteristics. It can include items such as perishable goods, hazardous materials, live animals, valuable or fragile items, oversized or heavy cargo, and human remains. These types of cargo often have specific requirements and regulations to ensure their safe and secure transport.

The most common types of special air cargo are dangerous goods, perishable goods, temperature-controlled goods, and live animals.

Dangerous Goods

Dangerous goods refer to materials or substances that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment when transported by air. Examples of dangerous goods include explosives, flammable liquids and gases, corrosives, radioactive materials, and toxic substances. The transport of dangerous goods by air is heavily regulated to ensure their safe handling, packaging, and transportation. These regulations include specific labeling requirements, documentation, and training for those involved in the transport of dangerous goods by air.

Perishable Goods

Perishable goods refer to items with a limited shelf life and are prone to spoilage or deterioration if not properly handled and transported. These goods include fresh produce, seafood, flowers, pharmaceuticals, and certain food products. The time-sensitive nature of perishable goods requires them to be transported quickly and under controlled conditions, such as temperature-controlled environments, to maintain their quality and freshness. Special packaging and handling procedures are often necessary to ensure that perishable goods reach their destination in optimal condition.

Temperature-controlled Goods

Temperature-controlled goods refer to items that require specific temperature conditions during transportation to maintain their quality and integrity. These goods include perishable items such as food, pharmaceuticals, and biologics that require a specific temperature range to ensure their safety and efficacy. Temperature-controlled air shipping may involve the use of specialized containers or refrigerated trucks to maintain a consistent temperature during transportation. This type of shipping requires careful monitoring and tracking to ensure that the temperature is maintained throughout the journey.

Live Animals

Live animals in air shipping refer to animals transported by air, whether for commercial or personal reasons. They can include pets, livestock, and exotic animals. The transportation of live animals requires special handling and care to ensure the animals' safety and well-being during transportation. The requirements may include:

● Providing appropriate food and water.

● Ensuring proper ventilation and temperature control.

● Adhering to specific regulations and guidelines for animal transport.

Shipping live animals by air also involves careful planning and coordination to ensure that the animals arrive at their destination safely and without delay.

Other Types of Special Air Cargo

Valuable or Fragile Items: High-value goods like gold, diamonds, artwork, antiques, or delicate electronics that need careful packaging and protection during transit.

Oversized or Heavy Cargo: Large or heavy items that may require special equipment or handling procedures, such as machinery, vehicles, or industrial equipment.