Dangerous Goods by Air Freight to India

Dangerous goods by air freight: how it works

Dangerous goods — from chemicals and acids to lithium batteries, gas cylinders, and pyrotechnics — can indeed be transported by air freight, provided they are correctly classified, packaged, and documented according to IATA DGR regulations.

Not every company has a DGR-certified employee in-house. Aircargo.nl takes care of this completely: we classify your goods, prepare the Shipper's Declaration, select the appropriate airline (not every airline accepts every DGR class), and ensure your shipment flies compliant.

Common DGR categories we ship

• Lithium batteries (UN3480, UN3481) — the most common DGR in air freight
• Liquids and chemicals (class 3, 6, 8)
• Aerosol cans and gases (class 2)
• Corrosive substances and acids (class 8)
• Magnetic materials (relevant for air navigation)

Exporting to India

India is one of the most complex yet promising destinations for air cargo. The country is growing rapidly, and the demand for specialized European products—machinery, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and high-tech components—is increasing year over year. Schiphol offers direct cargo flights to Mumbai (BOM), Delhi (DEL), and Bangalore (BLR).

Indian Customs — Be Well Prepared

India is known for its complex customs procedures. Import duties are high (averaging 10–30% per product category) and documentation requirements are strict. An incorrect HS code or incomplete invoice will almost certainly cause delays. Additionally, certain products require prior registration with Indian authorities (BIS, CDSCO for medical devices).

Key Considerations

• BIS registration mandatory for many electronic devices
• CDSCO approval for pharmaceuticals and medical devices
• FSSAI registration for food products
• Import license may be required depending on the type of goods
• Payment via Letter of Credit common for higher-value shipments

Important points for DGR shipments

IATA DGR classification mandatory

Dangerous goods must be classified according to the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). The classification determines the UN class, packing group, permitted quantities per package, and the mode of transport (passenger aircraft or cargo aircraft only).

Documentation

Every DGR shipment requires a fully completed Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods, signed by a trained DGR specialist. Aircargo.nl employs certified DGR experts who prepare and verify all documentation.

Packaging

DGR goods must be packed in UN-certified packaging suitable for the UN class and packing group. Incorrect packaging is the most common reason for refusal by the airline.

Airline approval

Not all airlines accept all types of DGR. Aircargo.nl always selects the right carrier based on the DGR profile of your shipment.