IATA vs IMO Shipping: B2B Case Transport Regulations 2026

Air vs sea freight case regulations. IATA dangerous goods, IMO IMDG, testing, marking.

International B2B case shipping requires IATA (air) and IMO IMDG (sea) compliance. This guide compares 8 dimensions to help B2B buyers navigate complex regulations.

Comparison Table

PropertyIATA (Air)IMO IMDG (Sea)Best For
Issuing BodyInternational Air Transport AssociationInternational Maritime OrganizationIATA: air; IMO: sea
Code ReferenceIATA DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations)IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods)Both mandatory
Primary StandardUN Recommendations on Transport of Dangerous GoodsSame (UN basis)Same UN basis
Battery RestrictionsMax 100 Wh per battery (carry-on only)Max 300 Wh per battery (with packaging)Sea: more flexible
Pressure Test Requirements95 kPa minimum (air pressure differential)Same (95 kPa) but sea-testedSame
Marking RequirementsUN number, class, packing groupUN number, class, marine pollutantSpecific to mode
DocumentationShipper's Declaration (DGD), Air WaybillDangerous Goods Declaration, Bill of LadingBoth required
Training RequiredIATA Category 1-3 (recurrent every 2 years)IMDG Code training (recurrent every 3 years)Both required

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need IATA certification to ship cases by air?

Depends on case contents. Empty cases (no batteries, no hazardous materials): no IATA dangerous goods certification needed. Cases with lithium batteries, flammable foam, or pressurized components: IATA Category 1-3 training required for shipper. Most B2B cases without electronic components ship as standard cargo. Cases with batteries > 100 Wh require special IATA documentation and may be restricted on passenger aircraft.

How do IATA and IMO regulations affect lead time?

IATA air freight with dangerous goods: 1-2 days lead time for documentation + airline acceptance. IMO sea freight: 3-7 days for port documentation + container loading. Both add 1-3 days to standard lead time. IATA is faster but more expensive ($5-8/kg vs $0.5-1.5/kg sea). For B2B orders under 500kg, air is typically preferred. For orders 1,000kg+, sea is more cost-effective despite longer lead time.