Ruth Haines
Shipping packages at the airport is possible, but it depends on the airport and the courier service. For example, there is a FedEx drop box on the second floor of JFK Terminal 4, and some airlines offer cargo services. However, it's important to note that there may be specific packaging requirements, weight and size restrictions, and guidelines for shipping dangerous goods that must be followed when shipping packages at the airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shipping companies | FedEx, UPS, USPS, Alaska Airlines cargo |
| Packaging requirements | Containers must be sealed and have a minimum capacity of 1,728 cubic inches (12" x 12" x 12"'); polyethylene bags must be at least 4 mil. thick and sealed to prevent leakage; outer containers must be multi-walled, wax-impregnated fibreboard boxes or leak-proof plastic or fibreglass containers; absorbent materials must be placed between the bag and container; containers must be banded or taped with a minimum of two bands |
| Weight restrictions | Maximum weight per container is 150 lbs./68 kgs. for seafood and 300 lbs./136 kgs. for whole tuna or swordfish shipments; maximum weight per piece for other items is 100 lbs./45 kgs. |
| Size restrictions | Combined dimensions of length, width, and height cannot exceed 90 inches; no minimum size restriction, but each piece should be at least one cubic foot (12" x 12" x 12") |
| Dangerous goods | Must follow IATA packaging instructions; placed in an authorized box or bag |
| Tracking | Different types of trackers are allowed to accompany shipments |
| Customs clearance | Regulatory clearance can be expedited by transmitting trade documents electronically in advance |
| Delivery options | Door-to-door delivery, various delivery options and speeds |
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What You'll Learn
Package weight and size restrictions
When shipping a package, it is important to adhere to the weight and size restrictions imposed by the airline and aviation authorities. These restrictions are in place to maintain safety, efficiency, and fuel economy during air transportation. Here are the key considerations for package weight and size restrictions:
Weight Restrictions:
- Maximum Allowable Weight: The weight restrictions can vary depending on the airline and the aircraft type. For most airlines, the maximum allowable weight per package is typically between 70 kg (154 lbs) and 1000 kg (2200 lbs). However, specific airlines may have different limits. For example, American Airlines Cargo specifies a maximum weight of 100 lbs (45 kgs) per piece.
- Chargeable Weight: Airlines calculate shipping costs based on the chargeable weight, which takes into account both the actual weight (gross weight) and the volumetric weight of the package. The formula for calculating volumetric weight varies by airline but is generally (Length x Width x Height in cm) / 6000 or /5000 for express carriers.
- Weight Distribution: Proper weight distribution within the aircraft is crucial for flight stability and safety. This is why lightweight, bulky items may reach volume limits before weight limits.
Size Restrictions:
- Maximum Dimensions: The combined dimensions of length, width, and height of each package must not exceed the specified limits. For some airlines, the maximum allowable dimensions are 90 inches in total.
- Minimum Dimensions: Some airlines recommend a minimum size for each piece, typically one cubic foot (12" x 12" x 12"). This ensures that small items are not lost or mishandled.
- Special Handling: Packages with extreme length, excessive weight, unusual shape, or those requiring special handling due to their size may not be accepted without prior arrangements.
Commodity-Specific Restrictions:
- Perishables: Certain commodities, such as fresh seafood, have specific weight restrictions. For example, the maximum gross weight for fresh seafood, including packaging and refrigerant, is typically 150 lbs (68 kgs).
- Dangerous Goods: When shipping dangerous goods, such as dry ice or oxygen containers, you must comply with IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. These regulations include specific packaging instructions and restrictions.
- Live Animals and Seafood: Live animals and seafood have their own packaging and weight restrictions. For example, live seafood shipments should not exceed 300 lbs (136 kgs).
It is important to check with the specific airline or cargo service provider for detailed weight and size restrictions, as they may vary depending on the aircraft, destination, and nature of the goods being shipped.
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Packaging requirements for dangerous goods
Firstly, it is imperative to correctly identify the type, class, and quantity of dangerous goods being shipped. The United Nations categorizes dangerous goods into nine distinct classes, encompassing a wide range of hazardous substances, from explosives and flammable liquids to corrosive materials and lithium batteries. Proper classification is essential to ensure that the hazards are effectively communicated throughout the transport chain.
The packaging itself must meet rigorous standards to withstand the challenges of transportation. UN-specification packaging, also known as Performance Oriented Packaging (POP), is mandated for most air shipments of dangerous goods. This packaging undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its resilience against shocks, loadings, and atmospheric pressure changes. Successful completion of these tests is indicated by UN markings on the packaging, signifying its ability to withstand specific challenges.
The actual packaging process must adhere to precise instructions. For instance, hazardous materials must be placed inside polyethylene bags, sealed to prevent leakage, and packed within multi-walled, wax-impregnated fiberboard containers or leak-proof plastic or fiberglass containers. Absorbent materials are also necessary between the bag and the outer or inner container. Additionally, each package must be appropriately marked and labeled, providing special care instructions, classification details, and any other pertinent information. These labels must be durable, clearly visible, and meet specific criteria for shape, color, format, symbol, and text.
Furthermore, regulatory documents, such as the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods and the Air Waybill, must accompany each shipment. These documents have stringent requirements for format, language, color, and size. Proper training for all personnel involved in the dangerous goods supply chain is also vital to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the hazards and compliance with regulations.
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Drop-off locations at the airport
Pre-security drop-off locations are publicly accessible areas within airport grounds, such as drop boxes, mail slots, or post offices. These locations do not require individuals to pass through security checks and are serviced by postal staff.
Post-security drop-off locations, on the other hand, are situated behind security checkpoints. Access to these areas is restricted to authorized staff, flight crew, or passengers with a valid ticket.
Some airports may have specific drop boxes for certain courier companies like FedEx, DHL, or UPS. FedEx, for instance, has over 35,000 drop box locations worldwide, including at airports. FedEx Office® Print and Ship Centers offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, shipping, and providing supplies and resources.
It is important to note that postal services at airports typically do not accept packages for private courier companies like FedEx, UPS, or DHL. Additionally, some airports may not have a post office, making it challenging to mail parcels.
When shipping packages at the airport, it is essential to adhere to postal regulations, including proper labelling and packaging requirements.
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Pick-up options at the airport
Courier Service Options:
Some courier services, such as UPS, offer the option to select a "Hold at [Courier Name] Access Point" flag when shipping a package. This allows you to pick up the package at a designated location, which could be at or near the airport. This method complies with established policies and procedures and provides a seamless option for package pickup.
Airline Cargo Services:
Some airlines offer cargo services that allow you to ship and pick up packages at the airport. For example, Alaska Airlines cargo provides an office at Narita International Airport where packages can be picked up.
FedEx or Local Pack and Ship Stores:
If you are unable to use an airline cargo service, you can often use a FedEx office or a local Pack and Ship store as an alternative pickup location. These stores are typically located near airports and provide convenient options for package pickup.
Customs:
If your package is being shipped internationally, it will likely go through customs. In this case, you will need to go to the customs building at the airport to pick up your package. Be sure to have all the necessary customs information, including a packing list, item codes, and possibly a formal customs declaration for commercial shipments over a certain value.
Freight Forwarder:
Using a freight forwarder is another option for picking up shipments at the airport. This option may be more cost-effective than using a courier service, but it may also involve more paperwork and handling customs yourself.
When picking up a package at the airport, it is important to plan ahead and ensure that you have all the necessary information and documentation. Additionally, be mindful of any size, weight, and packaging restrictions imposed by the courier service or airline cargo service to ensure a smooth pickup process.
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Shipping options for international markets
When it comes to shipping options for international markets, several companies offer airport-to-airport services. Eurosender, for instance, provides low-cost parcel shipping services to and from international airports. You can book their airport-to-airport shipping services by selecting your pick-up and delivery countries and choosing the appropriate shipping option, such as Express, Standard, or Freight. To ensure successful collection and delivery, you must provide complete address information, including the terminal, exact location inside the airport, and contact details of a staff member at the airport. Additionally, consider the customs documentation required for your shipment. Eurosender offers tracking for airport parcel deliveries, so you can monitor your shipment every step of the way.
Another option is FedEx International Airport-to-Airport, which serves more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. They offer expedited customs clearance and reduced risk of delay for controlled import and export shipments. You can transmit your international trade documents electronically for fast customs clearance, ensuring that any discrepancies are addressed before your shipment arrives at customs. FedEx also provides door-to-door delivery on the specified day and time, backed by a money-back guarantee.
If you're shipping from the United States, American Airlines Cargo offers international shipping services with specific packaging requirements. They have guidelines for perishable items, dangerous goods, and unusual shipments. To use their services, you must ensure your shipment meets their dimensional and weight restrictions. Additionally, your shipment must be packaged in sealed containers of at least 1,728 cubic inches, with proper labelling and markings.
It's important to note that some airlines also offer cargo services. For example, Alaska Airlines cargo allows you to ship your package and pick it up from their office. When choosing an airline cargo service, it's recommended to review their specific guidelines and restrictions to ensure your package complies with their requirements.
Overall, when considering shipping options for international markets, you have several choices, including Eurosender, FedEx, American Airlines Cargo, and airline-specific cargo services. Each option has its own features, such as tracking, expedited clearance, and specific packaging requirements, so be sure to review their guidelines and select the one that best suits your needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but you must follow the IATA packaging instructions. Dangerous goods must be placed inside a polyethylene bag at least 4 mil. thick and sealed to prevent leakage.
There is no minimum size restriction, but small items may be placed in an authorized box or bag. The combined dimensions of length, width, and height cannot exceed 90 inches, and the maximum weight is 100 lbs/45 kgs.
Yes, some airports have drop boxes or offices for package delivery services like FedEx, UPS, or USPS. However, these may be located in cargo areas that are difficult to access.
