IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR)

First published in 1956 and issued every year, the DGR applies the ICAO Technical Instructions plus stricter state and airline variations. The 67th edition took effect January 1, 2026. Shippers must classify goods, follow the specified packing instructions, mark and label packages, issue a Shipper's Declaration where required, and train staff. From January 1, 2026, certain lithium ion batteries packed with equipment and vehicle batteries above 100 Wh must ship at no more than 30 percent state of charge, a limit standalone lithium ion batteries have had since 2016.

The DGR determines whether an e-commerce product with a battery, fragrance or aerosol can fly at all, which affects international shipping options and speed. Airlines and express carriers apply it strictly, so noncompliant parcels are rejected or returned. For example, a merchant shipping wireless earbuds abroad by express air must pack them under the correct lithium battery packing instruction, and spare batteries packed alone face tighter limits than batteries installed in devices. Fulfillment centers handling air shipments need staff trained to DGR requirements.

• Lithium Battery ShippingShipping batteries under dangerous goods rules

• UN Model Regulations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods1956, 24th revised edition 2025 · UN template for dangerous goods rules in all modes
• Chicago Convention1944, in force 1947 · Founding treaty of ICAO and international aviation
• Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR)1908, rewritten 1990 · US DOT rules for shipping hazardous materials

1. Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), IATA iata.org
2. New lithium battery state of charge limit in effect January 1, Labelmaster/Lion lion.com