Understanding Overpack Requirements for Air Transport (IATA DGR)

Learn how to prepare, mark, and document overpacks correctly under IATA regulations in under 1 hour.

Lesson series
  • Level: Introductory
  • Study time: 0.5 hour
  • Exams: Assessment test
  • Author: Veerle Melis
  • Certificate: yes
Course overview
This course provides a clear understanding of overpack requirements for the air transport of dangerous goods in accordance with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.

Participants will learn what an overpack is, when it is used, and the applicable marking and labelling requirements. The course focuses on regulatory awareness and correct terminology related to overpacks in air transport.

This training is suitable for shippers and other professionals involved in the preparation of dangerous goods shipments who require specific knowledge of overpack requirements.
Empty space, drag to resize
Certification included
You will receive a certificate after completing the course.

About the Trainer

his course was created by Veerle Melis, an aviation compliance specialist with over 30 years of experience in the air cargo industry.

Veerle has worked at major international airports for ground handling agents and airlines, as well as for an organisation officially authorised to act as a shipper on behalf of clients.

Throughout her career, she has trained and supported shippers, freight forwarders, handling agents, and airline staff across Europe, with a consistent focus on making dangerous goods regulations clear, practical, and accessible.

Her mission is to help professionals feel confident and well prepared to manage regulatory requirements related to dangerous goods, regardless of their role or level of experience.

Veerle is the founder of dangerousgoods.online, an online training platform providing modular dangerous goods training and knowledge support for shipping and logistics professionals.

Frequently asked questions

What is an overpack?

An overpack is an enclosure used by a single shipper to contain one or more packages. It’s used for easier handling or to consolidate multiple packages into one unit. Common examples include shrink-wrapped pallets or boxes containing smaller packages.

Do overpacks need to be marked and labeled?

Yes. Overpacks must display all markings and labels of the packages inside, unless these are clearly visible from the outside. In addition, the word “OVERPACK” must be clearly marked if required.

Are airlines allowed to break down an overpack? 

No. Overpacks must remain sealed and intact. Airlines are not permitted to dismantle or open an overpack.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
  • Understand what an overpack is under the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations
  • Recognise the regulatory requirements applicable to overpacks
  • Identify the marking and labelling requirements for overpacks
  • Understand how overpacks are  declared  on air transport documentation
Created with