Excess Baggage Packing Restrictions Air Cargo Guidelines & Tips

Excess Baggage Packing Restrictions – What You Need to Know

Before you send your excess baggage as cargo, make sure it’s packed correctly and complies with airline and customs regulations.

Why Packing Restrictions Matter

Whether you’re flying from Cape Town Airport or sending cargo internationally, packing restrictions are enforced to ensure safety, compliance, and smooth customs clearance. Improperly packed or prohibited items can lead to delays, fines, or confiscation. This guide helps you avoid common mistakes and pack your excess baggage like a pro.

General Packing Guidelines

✅ Use sturdy boxes or suitcases with secure closures
✅ Label each item clearly with your name and destination
✅ Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or foam
✅ Avoid overpacking – cargo weight limits apply
✅ Include a packing list inside each container

Weight & Size Limits

Most airlines and cargo services follow these standard limits:

Checked baggage: Max 20kg per piece (FlySafair, SAA)
Air cargo: Up to 32kg per item; heavier items require special handling
Dimensions: Must fit within 90cm x 75cm x 43cm unless crated

Items exceeding these limits may be charged extra or shipped separately as freight.

Prohibited Items in Excess Baggage

These items are strictly forbidden in air cargo and excess baggage:

❌ Explosives, fireworks, or flammable materials
❌ Compressed gases (e.g., butane, propane)
❌ Toxic or corrosive substances
❌ Perishable food items (unless pre-approved)
❌ Live animals or insects
❌ Counterfeit goods or undeclared high-value items

Attempting to ship these can result in legal penalties or cargo rejection.

Special Packing for Fragile & High-Value Items

If you’re shipping electronics, artwork, or instruments, use custom crates or foam-lined boxes. Declare the value for insurance purposes and request “fragile” handling. For items like wine or glassware, double-boxing is recommended.

Tips for Packing Personal Effects

👕 Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles
📚 Stack books flat to avoid spine damage
🧴 Seal liquids in ziplock bags to prevent leaks
🧳 Use vacuum bags for bulky items like jackets
🔌 Pack chargers and cables in a labeled pouch

Declaring Your Cargo

All excess baggage shipped as cargo must be declared with an itemized list. Include:

Item name and quantity
Estimated value
Country of origin
Purpose (personal, commercial, gift)

Customs may inspect your cargo, so transparency is key.

Packing for International Destinations

Different countries have unique import restrictions. For example:

🇦🇺 Australia bans wooden items without fumigation
🇺🇸 USA restricts food, seeds, and certain medications
🇩🇪 Germany requires electronics to meet EU standards

Check destination-specific rules before packing.

Labeling & Documentation

Each package should include:

Sender and receiver details
Destination address
Contact number
Air Waybill (provided by cargo agent)

Incorrect labeling can delay delivery or cause misrouting.

Storage & Handling at Cape Town Airport

We offer short-term storage and professional packing services at Cape Town International Airport. Our team ensures your excess baggage is compliant, secure, and ready for air freight.

Get Packing Support & Free Quote

Need help packing your excess baggage? Contact our Cape Town Airport team for expert advice, packing materials, and a free cargo quote.

Phone: +2787 702 2104
Email: Cape Town Info Mail
Location: Cape Town International Airport, Western Cape

Excess Baggage Cape Town

Excess Baggage Packing restrictions