Liquid
Non-infectious Specimens
Non-infectious specimens, such as those containing formaldehyde or alcohols, are permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage. Strict quantity limits and specialized leak-proof packaging are mandatory to ensure safety during air travel. These regulations prevent spills and protect passengers and crew, making adherence essential for safe transport.
Baggage Rules
Cabin Baggage
✓ Allowed
Checked Baggage
✓ Allowed
Quantity Limit
No more than 30 ml of free liquid solution in each inner packaging and no more than one liter in the entire outer package. For carry-on baggage, containers are limited to 100 ml (3.4 oz).
Packaging Requirement
Heat-sealed plastic bags must be placed in another heat-sealed plastic bag with enough absorbent material to absorb all contents. This bag then goes into a strong outer packaging with sufficient cushioning material. The outer package must be marked 'Scientific research specimens, 49 CFR 173.4b applies'.
Safety Guide
1
Non-infectious specimens, such as those containing formaldehyde, ethanol, or isopropanol, are permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage, provided specific packaging and quantity requirements are met. Each inner packaging must contain no more than 30 ml of free liquid solution, and the entire outer package must not exceed one liter. For carry-on baggage, all liquids, gels, and aerosols are subject to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule, meaning containers must be 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less and fit into a single quart-sized bag. Packaging is crucial: heat-sealed plastic bags are required, with an additional heat-sealed plastic bag containing enough absorbent material to fully contain the inner contents. This double-bagged specimen must then be placed within a strong outer packaging, cushioned adequately to prevent movement and damage. The outer package must be clearly marked with 'Scientific research specimens, 49 CFR 173.4b applies.' It's important to note that solutions less than 25% Formalin (which is less than 10% formaldehyde) are not restricted by these specific hazardous materials regulations, but leakproof packaging with absorbent material is still highly recommended for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, non-infectious specimens containing substances like formaldehyde, ethanol, or isopropanol are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, strict packaging and quantity limits apply to ensure safety during the flight. You must adhere to these regulations to transport them legally.
Each inner container must hold no more than 30 ml of free liquid solution. The total volume in the entire outer package cannot exceed one liter. Additionally, for carry-on baggage, all liquids are subject to the standard 100 ml (3.4 oz) container limit per item, which must fit in a quart-sized bag.
Proper packaging is essential. You need to use heat-sealed plastic bags, with an inner bag containing sufficient absorbent material to absorb all contents. This double-bagged item must then be placed in a strong outer package with adequate cushioning. The outer package must also be marked "Scientific research specimens, 49 CFR 173.4b applies."
Yes, solutions containing less than 25% Formalin, which translates to less than 10% formaldehyde by volume, are typically not subject to these specific hazardous materials restrictions. However, even for these less concentrated solutions, it is still strongly recommended to use leakproof packaging with absorbent material to prevent any potential spills or issues.
This information is for guidance only. Your airline may apply different rules. Always check with your airline before travel.
Item Details
Item Name
Non-infectious specimens
Category
Liquid