Dry ice is deceptively simple: frozen carbon dioxide, no moving parts, no batteries. But because it sublimates to CO₂ gas — displacing oxygen in enclosed spaces — every mode of transport treats it as regulated cargo. For Miami-area shippers moving pharmaceuticals, biologics, seafood, and specialty foods, getting dry ice compliance right is the difference between a smooth acceptance and a delayed shipment.
The Basics: UN 1845
Dry ice is classified as UN 1845, Class 9 (miscellaneous dangerous goods). It is not a flammable, not a toxin, and not a corrosive — the regulation exists because of the asphyxiation hazard from sublimation in confined spaces (aircraft cargo holds, sea containers, warehouse receiving docks).
Air Shipments Under IATA
For air, the governing rules are in IATA DGR PI 954. Key points: packaging must vent (sealed packaging that traps sublimating CO₂ will over-pressurize); UN specification isn’t required, but packaging must permit gas release. The proper shipping name (“Dry ice” or “Carbon dioxide, solid”), UN 1845, and net weight of dry ice in kilograms per package must be marked on the outer package. Class 9 label required. Shipper’s declaration required for most shipments.
Passenger and cargo aircraft both accept dry ice, but per-package net weight limits differ (200 kg passenger, 200 kg cargo per PI 954 in the 2026 edition). Operator variations can further limit.
Ocean Shipments Under IMDG
For ocean, IMDG applies. The core requirements mirror IATA in shape but differ in detail. Packing group is not assigned (Class 9 miscellaneous), stowage category is A, and segregation from certain other cargoes applies. For containers loaded with dry ice, ventilation and hazard placarding rules are strict — closed containers full of sublimating dry ice are a documented safety incident category, and terminals will refuse to accept containers where compliance isn’t visible.
Ground Transportation
Ground transport under 49 CFR 173.217 in the U.S. is less onerous than air or ocean, but still requires proper shipping name, UN number, and vehicle ventilation adequate to prevent CO₂ accumulation. For enclosed vans and box trucks, driver awareness of the ventilation risk is critical.
Practical Miami Considerations
Perishable and pharma volume. Miami’s role as a LATAM hub for pharma, biologics, and perishables makes dry ice one of the most-shipped Class 9 items out of MIA.
Temperature-controlled coordination. Dry ice is often used alongside temperature-controlled equipment; the compliance treatment doesn’t change just because it’s inside an active reefer.
Terminal acceptance. MIA cargo terminals have specific handling procedures for Class 9 shipments; documentation errors trigger rejection before the shipment reaches the airline.
Bottom Line
Dry ice moves are routine — until they aren’t. Go-Freight’s team handles dry ice shipments across air, ocean, and ground with the packaging, documentation, and coordination that keeps them moving on schedule and inside the rules.