Dangerous Goods by Air Freight to Kazakhstan

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 Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is the largest economy in Central Asia and a growing market for Dutch machinery, mining equipment, agri-technology, and pharmaceuticals. Schiphol does not have direct cargo flights to Kazakhstan — shipments are usually routed through Frankfurt (Lufthansa Cargo), Istanbul (Turkish Cargo), or Riga to Almaty (ALA) or Astana/Nur-Sultan (NQZ). Typical transit time is 1–3 days.

Customs & Regulations

Kazakhstan is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and applies the common EAEU tariffs. Most shipments require ECCN classification and an EAC declaration of conformity. Food products, machinery, and electrical equipment require a TR CU (Technical Regulations of Customs Union) certificate. Customs in Almaty is known for thorough inspections.

Practical Tips

• EAC certification can take weeks to months — plan well in advance of shipment
• Documentation must be submitted in Russian or Kazakh for local customs clearance
• Additional export licenses from the Netherlands apply for dual-use and mining-related goods

Aircargo.nl has experience with Central Asian routes and works with reliable agents in Almaty. We handle the complete documentation chain — including assistance with EAC certification — for smooth processing.

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.