How to Ship Magnets by Air

Shipping magnets by air isn’t as simple as tossing them in a box and calling it a day. Due to their strong magnetic fields, magnets are classified as dangerous goods under the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). If you’re a manufacturer, distributor, or individual needing to ship magnets, understanding and complying with these rules is critical—not just to avoid fines but to ensure the safety of airline crew and aircraft systems.

Magnets can interfere with aircraft navigational and communication systems. Strong magnetic fields may also affect other cargo, especially electronic and medical equipment. IATA regulates their shipment to ensure that any magnetic field emitted from a package stays within safe limits.

Classification Under UN2807

Magnets are classified under UN2807 – Magnetized Material. While they fall under Class 9 (Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods), not all magnetic materials are automatically subject to the full scope of DGR requirements.

Field Strength Limits

The IATA DGR states that the shipment of magnets must be tested for magnetic field strength. Here’s what to know:

The critical threshold is a magnetic field of 0.00525 gauss (or 5.25 milligauss) at 4.6 meters (15 feet) from any point on the package.
If the magnetic field at 4.6 meters is less than 0.00525 gauss, the package is not subject to IATA’s dangerous goods regulations.

If the magnetic field exceeds the threshold, it must be labeled as UN2807 and meet Class 9 packaging, labeling, and documentation requirements.

Shielding Requirements

If your magnets exceed the field limit, you must use shielding materials to reduce the magnetic field strength. Common shielding includes steel boxes or layers of soft iron sheeting. The goal is to bring the field below the 0.00525 gauss threshold at the specified distance.

Packaging and Labeling

For magnets that remain subject to DGR:

Use strong outer packaging to prevent shifting or damage.
Apply the magnetized material label.
Include a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods with the air waybill.
Ensure packaging can withstand normal handling and transport conditions.

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions:

Magnetized materials packaged so that the field strength is negligible outside the package are not subject to IATA DGR.

If you understand the rules, shipping magnets by air can be perfectly safe and compliant. By measuring your magnetic field strength and following IATA’s guidelines, you protect your business, your shipment, and the safety of air transport personnel. Whether you’re shipping medical devices, electronics, or industrial components, it pays to do it right the first time.

Properly preparing and documenting magnetic materials isn’t just a regulatory box to check—it’s a safeguard for everyone involved in air transport. Ensuring your shipment meets IATA’s magnetic field limits, packaging standards, and labeling protocols minimizes compliance risks and maintains your organization’s reputation for safety and reliability.

If your team ships magnets or other Class 9 dangerous goods, partner with The Compliance Center for expert guidance, certified packaging, and compliant labeling solutions. Our Regulatory Experts can help you navigate IATA’s complex requirements with confidence—so every shipment takes off without delay.

👉 Contact us today to ensure your next magnetic shipment is fully compliant and ready for air transport.