GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 23, 2026

Critical Cargo Handling

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Last updated: 23 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://lufthansa-cargo.com/en/products-services/special-products/critical-cargo

Category

Logistics Concept

Reading time

1 min

Words

126

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Definition & Explanation

A forwarder books temperature-sensitive active pharmaceutical ingredients on an air freight service, a museum ships artworks in climate-controlled crates, a hospital awaits emergency blood products within hours: these scenarios all call for critical cargo handling. The term covers the specialised treatment of goods that, due to their nature, value or urgency, require purpose-built equipment, complete chain-of-custody documentation and priority handling at every handover point in the transport chain. Insulated and refrigerated containers, electrostatic protection packaging, tamper-evident seals and continuous monitoring systems – logging temperature, shock and unauthorised access – are standard tools. Critical cargo handling is distinct from dangerous goods transport, which is governed by separate regulatory frameworks such as the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations or ADR; cargo can be critical without carrying a hazardous classification.