Airlift Logistics treats shipping perfume from Dubai as dangerous goods until the safety data sheet shows otherwise. Alcohol-based perfume is usually UN1266, a Class 3 flammable liquid. Attar and oud oils need checking too, because the flash point decides, not the name.
Why perfume is a Dubai question
Dubai is a major trading point for fragrance, from bulk alcohol-based perfume to attar and oud. Those products look similar on an invoice but may not be treated the same way in transport. That is why a single rule for "perfume" does not work.
What usually applies
| Product | Likely position | What decides it |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol-based perfume and body spray | Usually UN1266, Class 3 | Flash point and packing group in the SDS |
| Aerosol fragrance | Often UN1950, Division 2 | Aerosol type and contents |
| Attar and oud oils | Check each product | Flash point, as carrier oils differ |
| Small retail or sample orders | Still regulated if classified | Quantity limits and carrier rules |
A general guide. A trained dangerous goods person must classify your product under the current IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations before it ships.
Documents and packing
- Safety data sheet (SDS). Section 14 shows the UN number, class and packing group.
- Shipper's Declaration. Required for fully regulated air shipments.
- . With the correct marks and hazard labels.
- . Airlines add their own limits, so acceptance is not automatic.
The mistake that causes the most trouble
Declaring fragrance as "cosmetics" or "gift items" to avoid the rules does not avoid them. Undeclared dangerous goods on an aircraft are a safety risk and can lead to rejected cargo and penalties. Ask any forwarder for its GCAA position and DG training, and declare the product correctly.
Next step
Look up your product in the UN number finder, then send the safety data sheet to our dangerous goods handling and shipping in Dubai team. Expect a as part of the quote.
Quick answers
What is the UN number for perfume?
The UN number for perfumery products is usually UN1266. These products are classed as Class 3 flammable liquids, with packing group II or III depending on the flash point. Aerosol fragrances are usually listed differently, often under UN1950. Your safety data sheet should confirm the correct entry for your exact product before you book the shipment.
- See Section 14 of the safety data sheet.
- Ask a trained person to confirm the classification.
Are attar and oud oil dangerous goods?
Attar and oud oil can be dangerous goods, depending on the product. Alcohol-free oils may have a higher flash point than alcohol-based perfume, but carrier oils and blends differ. The name alone does not settle it. Ask the supplier for a safety data sheet, then have a trained dangerous goods person check the classification.
- Each blend needs its own check.
- Keep the data sheet for each shipment.
Sources: IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. How we check our content.
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