How to Ship Magnets by Air – Guidelines for Shipping Magnets via Air Transportation

Shipping magnets by air poses unique challenges, because magnetic fields can interfere with aircraft navigation and sensitive electronic equipment. For this reason, Adams Magnetic recommends shipping all magnetized products using ground transportation. But what happens when ground transportation isn’t an option? As a leader in engineering and manufacturing magnetic products since 1950, we’re well-versed in the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and can guide you in ensuring the safe and compliant transport of your magnets.

Understanding Magnet Classification and Air Transport Regulations

When shipping magnets via air, it’s essential to recognize that magnets are classified as “dangerous goods” when their magnetic field strength exceeds specific limits. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and IATA define “Magnetized Material” as any material that, when packaged for air transport, shows a magnetic field strength above the set threshold at a designated distance from the package.

Historically, this threshold was set at 0.159 A/m (0.002 Gauss) at a distance of 2.1 meters (7 feet). However, these regulations can change, so it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest guidelines from the FAA and IATA to ensure compliance when shipping magnetic assemblies or products.

Meeting Packaging Requirements for Air Shipping

To ship magnets by air safely, proper packaging techniques are essential to control and contain the magnetic field. At Adams Magnetic, we recommend the following methods:

• Magnetic Shielding: Use materials with high magnetic permeability, like iron or steel, to create a magnetic shield around them. This approach helps redirect magnetic field lines and reduce the field strength outside the package, ensuring compliance with air transport regulations.

Unshielded Magnet

Shielded Magnet

The Importance of Employee Training in Magnet Shipping 

Proper training for employees involved in the packaging and shipping of magnets by air is critical for compliance and safety. At Adams, we emphasize the following training components:

• Hazard Identification: Understanding the potential hazards associated with magnetic materials, such as their effects on navigation systems and electronic devices, is vital for safe handling.
• Regulations and Standards: Familiarization with FAA and IATA regulations ensures that your magnetic products are packaged in accordance with industry standards.
• Packaging Procedures: Hands-on training in shielding, orienting, and securing magnets within packaging helps meet regulatory requirements and safeguards the shipment.
• Documentation and Labeling: Correct documentation, labeling, and marking are essential for the safe air transport of magnets. Compliance with these requirements prevents delays and penalties.

Measuring Magnetic Fields for Compliance

Accurately measuring magnetic field strength is crucial to determine if your magnetic products meet air shipment requirements. We recommend using a gaussmeter to ensure compliance by following this process:

• Gaussmeter Selection: Choose a gaussmeter with a resolution of 0.1 mG or better for precise measurements. 
• Measurement Procedure: Move the gaussmeter probe around the package to find the maximum field strength. Take measurements at a distance of 7 feet from the side walls of the container.
• Interpreting Results: If the magnetic field strength exceeds the allowable limit, additional shielding or mitigation measures are necessary to make the package eligible for air transport.

Consulting with Experts at Adams Magnetic

While shipping magnets by air poses unique challenges, consulting with experts who specialize in magnetic solutions and air transport regulations can provide the needed support. Adams Magnetic, with over 70 years of experience in the industry, can help you choose the most suitable packaging materials to ensure safe and compliant air transport. Adams can not certify an air shipment by phone or email. The package must be measured by the organization making the shipment. Actual measurements, not estimates, are required.

We are often asked about shipping magnets by air, and thought we’d take a minute to write about it.  Adams Magnetic Products’ general policy is to ship all magnetized products using ground transportation.  When necessary, we can prepare magnets for air shipment with sufficient shielding to make sure they travel safely.

Important: This post does not fully state the regulations. The information provided herein is intended to inform that FAA and IATA regulations exist and that they should be understood before shipping magnets by air.

Questions? Contact us here, or call us at 800.747.7543!