What Can You Ship by Air? A Guide to Common Cargo Types

Air freight is not just for small packages or documents. From industrial equipment to medical supplies and even seafood, air cargo plays a vital role in Australia’s domestic and international logistics. But not every item is fit for flight—and some require special packaging, documentation, or permissions.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common types of goods shipped by air, explain why they’re suitable for air freight, and highlight special handling requirements you need to know.

Why Ship by Air?

Air freight is ideal when speed, reliability, or sensitive handling is critical. Common reasons businesses and individuals choose air freight:

• Short delivery timelines

• High-value or fragile goods

• Temperature-sensitive items

• Time-sensitive documents

• Long-distance shipping (e.g. Brisbane to Perth)

🔗 See the full benefits of this route in our Brisbane to Perth Air Freight Guide.

Most Common Air Freight Cargo Types

1. Medical Equipment & Pharmaceuticals

Air freight ensures safe, fast delivery of:

• Vaccines, insulin, and injectable medications

• Diagnostic devices (e.g. PCR machines)

• Hospital equipment like ventilators or surgical kits

🧊 Often requires cold chain logistics to maintain temperature.

2. Mining & Industrial Parts

Especially in Western Australia, critical parts are flown in to reduce costly downtime:

• Hydraulic systems

• Conveyor belt components

• Specialized tools

🚚 Often time-critical and may be oversized or heavy.

3. Electronics & Consumer Goods

Small, high-value, and in-demand items:

• Smartphones, laptops, tablets

• Gaming consoles and accessories

• Cameras, headphones, and wearables

📦 Require secure packaging and may be shipped in bulk during retail peaks.

4. Legal Documents & Business Prototypes

Air freight is used to ensure:

• Contracts and legal filings arrive before deadlines

• Product prototypes or mock-ups reach development teams quickly

• Secure transportation of confidential business files

🕒 Often shipped same-day or overnight via express courier.

5. Perishables & Fresh Produce

Common temperature-sensitive air freight includes:

• Fresh seafood (e.g. prawns, barramundi, oysters)

• Dairy products and gourmet cheese

• Cut flowers and live plants

• Frozen specialty food

❄️ Shipped with ice packs, thermal liners, or refrigerated containers.

6. Dangerous Goods (DG)

Includes:

• Lithium batteries

• Paints and flammable liquids

• Corrosives or oxidizers

• Dry ice

⚠️ Must comply with IATA DG regulations and be declared with proper labeling.

7. High-Value Cargo

Luxury goods, rare instruments, or secure shipments often go by air:

• Jewelry, gold, and precious metals

• Designer fashion or cosmetics

• Sensitive electronics or prototypes

🔒 Require security clearance and insurance.

Cargo That Needs Special Handling

Some goods are legally allowed but require extra care:

Always notify your provider early if your goods fall into these categories.

What Can’t Be Shipped by Air?

Not all cargo is eligible. Restrictions apply to:

• Pressurized gas canisters

• Explosives and munitions

• Undeclared lithium batteries

• Illicit substances or counterfeit goods

• Items banned under biosecurity laws (e.g. untreated wood, soil)

When in doubt, consult your freight forwarder.

Tips for Shippers

• Label packages clearly, especially for DG or perishables

• Use strong, airline-approved packaging

• Attach documentation externally (AWB, invoice, MSDS if required)

• Book in advance for special cargo or holiday periods

• Insure high-value shipments to mitigate risk

🔗 Need help with documentation? Read our guide on Air Freight Paperwork in Australia

Final Thoughts

From seafood to semiconductors, air freight is more versatile than many businesses realise. Choosing the right cargo type—and preparing it properly—ensures your shipment arrives quickly, safely, and legally.