Prohibited and Restricted Items
To comply with international civil aviation standards (ICAO/IATA) and federal safety laws, certain commodities cannot be transported or require prior clearance.
Shipper Legal Responsibility
The sender is legally liable for ensuring that cargo presented for transportation complies with all domestic and foreign import, export, and aviation safety laws. Undeclared hazardous materials can result in significant federal penalties and criminal prosecution.
1. Strictly Prohibited (Zero Tolerance)
These commodities cannot be accepted for transit under any circumstances.
Explosives & Pyrotechnics
Fireworks, flares, ammunition, blasting caps, gunpowder, and imitation explosive devices.
Flammable Liquids & Gases
Gasoline, lighter fuel, paint thinners, aerosol cans, butane, propane, and solvents.
Toxic & Infectious Substances
Poisons, pesticides, cyanide, infectious laboratory cultures, and medical waste.
Narcotics & Illegal Substances
All non-prescription narcotics, illicit drugs, controlled synthetic substances, and cannabis products.
Firearms, Weapons & Military Hardware
Guns, firearm components, ammunition, knives classified as weapons, and tactical gear subject to ITAR regulations.
Counterfeit & Copyright-Infringing Goods
Unauthorized replicas of trademarked apparel, electronics, luxury items, and pirated media.
Currency & Negotiable Instruments
Cash banknotes, bullion, traveler's cheques, endorsed money orders, and bearer bonds.
2. Restricted (Requires Prior Clearance)
Permitted only with approved packaging, compliance documentation, and prior written authorization.
Lithium-Ion & Lithium-Metal Batteries
Condition of Carriage: Allowed ONLY when contained inside the original equipment (e.g. laptops, smartphones) and compliant with strict UN3481 / PI967 IATA packaging standards. Standalone loose power banks and battery packs are strictly prohibited from passenger aircraft flights.
Perishable Foodstuffs & Biological Items
Condition of Carriage: Require dry-ice packaging compliance, health certificates, prior import authorization, and FDA Prior Notice for shipments entering the United States.
Pharmaceuticals & Prescription Medication
Condition of Carriage: Commercial pharmacy shipments require registered export/import licenses, original doctor's prescriptions, and complete ingredient breakdowns.
Alcohol, Tobacco & Vaping Products
Condition of Carriage: Heavily regulated by international excise authorities. Requires formal carrier carriage agreements, specialized customs permits, and adult signature upon delivery.
Valuable Fine Art & Jewelry
Condition of Carriage: Allowed up to specific declared value limits with prior written carrier approval and dedicated transit insurance riders.