By Jennifer Chang    Photo：CANVA

When dealing with the international air transportation of oversized cargo, ensuring that the external packaging does not exceed the height limits of the flights is a crucial consideration. Certain items such as molds, machinery, instruments, materials, and more may necessitate air transportation, making it essential to confirm that the packaging height adheres to the aircraft restrictions.

From a professional perspective in international air freight, we will analyze the specific cargo types and determine the permissible height range for air transportation in centimeters.

General air cargo is subject to a height restriction of 163 centimeters (cm). However, it is recommended that the packing height does not exceed 160 cm. Adhering to this restriction ensures that cargo can be transported smoothly in the belly or lower cargo hold of both passenger and cargo aircraft.

Different aircraft models use different ULD (Unit Load Device) containers with a height of 163 cm, such as AKE, DPE, ALF, AMP, DQF, and AMA. As long as the cargo does not exceed the size restrictions of these containers, it can be safely transported by air.  

For oversized cargo that exceeds the standard height restriction, cargo aircraft must be used. The main cargo hold of most air cargo aircraft has a maximum height of 305 cm. Cargo with a height between 270 cm and 300 cm is often transported by international air freight. For oversized cargo, the actual air transport height limit can reach 305 cm, or approximately 300 cm.

This is about 30 cm higher than a standard 40-foot container used in sea freight, which typically measures around 270 cm in height. In terms of transportation time, air freight is much faster than sea freight.

In terms of transportation cost, sea freight requires the use of special containers, such as open-top containers, for cargo of this height. The freight cost of open-top containers is several times that of standard containers, while there is no such requirement for international air freight. Therefore, for cargo with a height between 270 cm and 300 cm, the international air freight cost is likely to be cheaper than that of sea freight. This is why many oversized cargo on the market choose international air freight.

The height restriction for air cargo is an important consideration to ensure the smooth transportation of goods. For oversized cargo, air freight can be a viable option, especially for cargo with a height between 270 cm and 300 cm.

Goods exceeding the air freight height limit of 163 centimeters or those with a height below 305 centimeters may not necessarily be eligible for air transportation. Only all-cargo aircraft have main cargo holds; passenger planes lack this feature. In the regular international air freight market, passenger planes contribute to over 70% of the cargo transportation capacity.

The global fleet of cargo aircraft is limited and primarily owned by companies like UPS, FedEx, DHL, and a few specialized cargo airlines such as Emirates, Turkish Airlines, China Airlines, EVA Air, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Cathay Pacific, American Airlines, and Lufthansa. To transport goods exceeding 163 centimeters in height through international air freight, several factors need consideration. Firstly, it is crucial to confirm whether the airlines operating between the two airports have cargo planes capable of transporting such oversized items.

Secondly, the willingness of the airline to accept your cargo is vital, as certain airlines may have restrictions on receiving items exceeding specific dimensions. In the air cargo market, selecting the right airline and aircraft model is paramount to ensuring the smooth delivery of goods to their destination.

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