Shipping neodymium magnets via air requires special considerations due to their strong magnetic fields. As a neodymium magnet manufacturer, we understand that these magnets, being some of the most powerful permanent magnets, are subject to strict regulations to ensure safe and compliant transportation. Here is a comprehensive guide to shipping neodymium magnets by air:
Classification of Neodymium Magnets and The Strength
Neodymium magnets are considered hazardous materials by both the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) if they exceed certain magnetic field thresholds.
Small Magnets: Smaller neodymium magnets, such as those used in consumer products, may not be subject to dangerous goods regulations, but it is crucial to check their field strength.
High strength neodymium magnets: Neodymium magnets with a magnetic field strength that exceeds 0.005 Gauss at a distance of 2.1 meters from the package must be treated as Class 9 (Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods) for air transport under IATA and DOT regulations.
Accurately measuring magnetic field strength
Accurately measuring magnetic field strength is crucial to ensure your magnetic products meet air shipment requirements. To ensure compliance, we suggest using a gaussmeter and adhering to the following procedure:
Select a gaussmeter with a resolution of 0.1 mG or higher for accurate readings. Move the probe around the package to identify the point of maximum magnetic field strength. Measurements should be taken at a distance of 7 feet (approximately 2.1 meters) from the container's walls. If the magnetic field strength exceeds the permitted limit, additional shielding or other mitigation methods will be necessary to meet air transport standards.
By following this measurement process, you can verify that the magnetic product's field strength is within the allowed limits, preventing potential shipment issues caused by exceeding the limits.
Packaging Requirements
Proper packaging is essential for safely shipping neodymium magnets. Here are the key considerations:
Shielding the Magnetic Field: The package must be designed to shield the magnetic field to prevent interference with aircraft systems and nearby devices. Special magnetic shielding materials may be required, like iron or steel, to create a magnetic shield.
Stabilizing the Magnet: Magnets should be secured inside the packaging to prevent movement, which could cause magnetization or damage to the magnet itself.
Padding and Protection: The packaging should include padding to protect the magnet from physical shock and avoid any movement inside the box.
Shipping Restrictions and Airline Requirements
Airline Restrictions: Different airlines may impose varying restrictions for shipping neodymium magnets. It’s important to confirm with the airline or freight forwarder about their specific requirements.
Packaging Compliance: Ensure the packaging complies with the airline’s regulations regarding the maximum permissible magnetic field strength, and that all necessary labels and documentation are in place.
Safety Considerations
Electronic Equipment: Ensure that magnets are kept away from sensitive electronics, including devices like mobile phones, laptops, medical equipment, and navigation systems, both during packaging and transport.
Training: Staff handling the magnets must be trained in the proper handling of hazardous materials to ensure compliance with shipping regulations.
By following these guidelines and ensuring compliance with the necessary regulations, you can safely and efficiently ship neodymium magnets by air. Shipping magnets by air presents its own set of challenges, Zoyn, with over 25 years of experience in custom neodymium magnets, can assist in selecting the right packaging materials to ensure both safety and compliance during air transport. Our general approach is to transport all magnetized products via ground services. However, when air transport is required, we can prepare the magnets with adequate shielding to ensure safe and compliant shipping.
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