Embargo

An embargo is a governmental or regulatory restriction that prohibits or limits the transportation of certain goods to or from specific countries, entities, or individuals. Airlines must manage multiple types of embargoes including country restrictions, customs restrictions, aircraft limitations, and ground handling agent limitations, which can be temporary or permanent and may affect inbound, outbound, or transit movements. During the cargo acceptance process, ground handling personnel must verify that all embargoes and operational restrictions are applied to ensure shipments comply with current regulations. Embargoes serve various purposes including duty collection, consumer protection, and addressing security or political concerns.

Lufthansa Cargo AWB 020-12345678 carrying pharmaceutical goods from Frankfurt (FRA) to Moscow (SVO) is rejected due to an EU embargo restricting medical equipment exports to Russia. American Airlines Cargo AWB 001-87654321 transporting electronics from Los Angeles (LAX) to Tehran (IKA) requires special export licenses under U.S. OFAC embargo regulations before acceptance.

• cargo embargo
• routing embargo
• product embargo
• embargo shipment

How can I check if my cargo shipment is subject to an embargo before booking with an airline?

IATA's TACT Air Cargo Solutions provide up-to-date operational and compliance information including rules and restrictions that help with shipment clearance. Every international air freight operation must undergo compliance screening including party screening against sanctions lists (SDN, EU Consolidated List, UN lists), goods screening against export control lists, and destination screening for country-specific restrictions.

What are the consequences if my embargo shipment is discovered after cargo acceptance?

Despite the responsibility of parties contracting with carriers to provide accurate information, the consequences of sanction violations are often imposed on the carriers. If you don't follow embargo regulations, an airline can charge you fees, refuse to carry a specific cargo, or refuse to carry any cargo for you. The DOT may issue serious fines for violations of hazmat regulations where DOT and IATA regulations overlap.