Air freight Prohibited Items

3rd June 2026 by Air freight Prohibited Items

What items are prohibited in air freight?

these are the items prohibited and that cannot be transported by air freight for safety, legal, or regulatory reasons. Key prohibited items for air freight include:

  • Aerosols and pressurised canisters (deodorant, hairspray, shaving cream, paint)
  • Flammable liquids (perfume, nail polish, nail polish remover, paint, fuel, paint thinner)
  • Fireworks, explosives, and ammunition (including sporting ammunition)
  • Matches and cigarette lighters (including refills)
  • Batteries of any type
  • Chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, and cleaning products (bleach, detergents, drain and oven cleaners)
  • Compressed gas cylinders and camping equipment (gas stoves, gas cylinders)
  • Medicines of any type
  • Food of any type

For a more complete list, see Air Freight Prohibited items.

These rules are set by IATA (International Air Transport Association) and enforced by individual airlines.

 PSS Tip: If you are shipping by air freight, discuss your full inventory with your PSS Account Manager before booking. Items that are acceptable in sea freight may be prohibited for air. Never attempt to include prohibited items — aviation security is rigorous, and discovery can result in criminal charges.