Perishables: Acceptance and Transport

The following aspects are considered in the transportation of perishable goods:

1. Nature of the product: Almost all perishable products can be transported by air as long as they are properly packed and quickly transported.
2. Type of packaging: Changes in temperature, humidity, and pressure can seriously affect packaging. Special attention must be given to the design of the packaging for perishables.
3. Route and itinerary selection: Climate conditions along the route (i.e. at origin, transit, and destination airports) and excessive transshipments can affect the conditions of perishables. Therefore, the most direct flights and routes with the least changes in conditions should be chosen.
   

Shipments of perishable goods will only be accepted for transport if they comply with the following requirements:

1. Wet cargo (i.e. seafood, meat, etc.) will only be accepted in resistant, water-tight packaging, guaranteeing that no spills, leaks, or the release of bad odors will occur during transportation.
2. For horticultural products (i.e. fruits, vegetables, flowers, etc.) packaging must be resistant enough to withstand stacking of at least 2.2 meters in height without collapsing, and must resist the moisture released by these products. (See note 1)
3. Live animals destined for human consumption (i.e. lobster, shrimp, prawns, etc.) will only be accepted in packaging that complies with the requirements established in IATA's Live Animal Regulations. (See note 2)

Note 1: Resistance tests for these packages can be done with simulated weights at a temperature of 22 to 24 °C and relative humidity of 75 to 80% during a 24 hour period, with boxes stacked up to 3 meters high or its equivalent in weight.
Note 2: Even if animals are destined to be sacrificed at destination they must be treated with the same kindness and humanity as other animals and will not be accepted in sealed containers.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

1. For shipments of perishables packed with carbon dioxide (dry ice) a prior arrangement with LAN CARGO is necessary. Dry ice is classified as a dangerous good and the amounts that may be carried on board are limited to the type of aircraft.

Additional conditions for transportation of perishables may apply. Please contact our Office for additional information and details.