When speed and security are critical, many clients turn to on-board courier (OBC) services where urgent goods are hand-carried on commercial flights by a dedicated courier. But unlike cargo shipments, there are strict size and weight limitations when using this method.
At Declarators, we’ve successfully executed numerous OBC missions, delivering high-value, sensitive, or time-critical goods globally including electronic parts, legal documents, medical samples, and prototypes.
Here’s what you need to know about maximum weight and dimensions for hand-carry deliveries via air travel:
Cabin Baggage (Carry-On) Limits
Most airlines follow IATA cabin baggage guidelines, but individual airline policies may vary.
Standard Allowance:
- Weight: 7 kg to 10 kg (some up to 12 kg for business class)
- Dimensions: Around 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm (L x W x H)
Best for: Documents, small electronics, jewellery, medical vials, or compact high-value goods.
If your item exceeds this, it may need to go in checked baggage, or you must request airline approval for excess cabin allowance (especially for urgent missions).
Checked Baggage (If Needed for OBC)
Some OBC jobs involve checked-in luggage, especially when transporting bulkier items.
Typical Airline Checked Baggage Limits:
- Weight: Up to 32 kg per piece (for safety handling limits)
- Dimensions: Up to 158 cm total linear dimensions (L + W + H)
Best for: Items like laptops, spare parts, small instruments, medical devices, etc., if securely packed and time allows for baggage claim.
No dangerous goods or restricted items unless airline clearance is obtained.
Special Notes for OBC Cargo
- Lithium batteries: Must follow IATA guidelines. Hand-carry only if ≤100Wh and properly declared.
- High-value items: May require customs declaration, insurance, or even airport escort (we assist with all).
- Multiple pieces: Some couriers can carry 2–3 pieces if airline permits, but must still meet individual weight rules.
Real-World Limits (from Past Declarators Missions):
Courier Type | Max Weight Carried | Items Delivered |
Hand-Carry (Cabin) | 8.5 kg | Time-sensitive prototype for electronics MNC |
Check-In + Carry-On | 30 kg + 7 kg | Lab samples + documentation to Australia |
Airline Pre-Approved Excess | 48 kg total | High-value aerospace parts to Europe |
We work directly with airline partners to secure approvals when exceeding standard limits.
Get in Touch for Urgent Missions
Need something hand-carried across borders in the fastest, most secure way possible? Let Declarators handle your on-board courier needs, with full compliance, insurance, and precision.
- 24/7 readiness for urgent dispatch.
- Experienced in customs clearance at destination.
- Knowledge of airline-specific baggage allowances.
- Documentation and CO/permit support for outbound items.
- Dedicated courier from collection to delivery no handover.
🌐 www.declarators.com.sg
📧 group@declarators.com
📞 +65 6385 2155
