Air Freight

Air freight shipping is one of the modes of transport used for both domestic and international cargo.

It may often seem complicated to ship via air, however, this isn't always the case.

Air freight is a faster means to import and export cargo as compared to ocean freight.

Less handling is involved when it comes to air freight and this means there is a lower likelihood of damage.

When sending goods through air freight services there are various requirements that need to be observed to ensure that you receive the best possible air freight service.

1. Ensure cargo is adequately packaged

Correctly packaging before transportation guarantees that your goods aren't damaged while in transit.

Remember that during cross-docking and trans-loading, multiple people and machines may handle your package.

This necessitates the use of cardboard boxes with sturdy exteriors.

For extra protection for your cargo, plastic wraps and pallets can be used which help to cushion your cargo.

If you have any questions about packaging your air cargo simply complete the form below and we will call you back and answer all your questions.

2. Confirm Measurements

When sending your cargo via air the measurements need to be exact!

Always double-check your cargo measurements as you can avoid any extra charges by making sure you have the correct measurements.

When the details are incorrect you risk having your freight withheld by customs until a carrier verification is completed.

This happens when the weight of your package differs from what is stated on the forms.

This is very important as aeroplane fuel usage is estimated according to the weight of cargo the plane is carrying and misinformation may risk the safety of your package and the plane's occupants.

4. Complete Required Paperwork

Airfreight shipping requires formal paperwork and this needs to be correct when transporting cargo by air.

It is quicker and easier for goods to pass through customs when necessary documents are completed correctly.

International shipments need to have commercial invoices. You risk having trouble with customs if your shipment lacks an invoice.

Storage charges and fines may also be levied as your package awaits proper documentation.

The contents and value of your package need to be stated on the commercial invoice. Also, remember to include the HTS code (Harmonized Tariff Schedule).

Double-check these details to avoid misrepresenting information to ensure your shipment will be cleared quickly and efficiently upon arrival.

Paperwork requirements differ depending on destination - to get expert advice on exactly what you need complete the form below and we will call you back.

According to a World Bank study, sending goods by plane are typically priced between four to five times that of road transport and twelve to sixteen times that of sea transport.

That translates as a price range of $1.50 - $4.50 per kilogram.

Much air cargo consists of important documents, pharmaceuticals and perishable goods

The common denominator being that the shipments are time-sensitive and need to be shipped as quickly as possible.

The range of pricing, as well as being dictated by the weight and size of the cargo, is also influenced by the level of service required - the difference between 'airfreight' and 'air cargo' is important.

Air cargo refers to any goods that are transported in an aircraft to a pre-determined destination.

This also includes air express and airmail.

Types of Air Cargo

- Temperature Controlled
- Hazardous Material/Dangerous Goods
- Heavy weight and over dimensional freight
- Live Animals
- High Value/Fragile Items
- Human Remains/Organs/Tissue Samples

There will be multiple shipments of various goods loaded on these cargo planes.

As the sender, whilst you will pay less, you will have more work and responsibility using this method.

First of all you need to meet the the carriers height and width restrictions, secondly capacity is finite and goods can be pushed back on to later flights thus delaying your shipment if the plane's hold is overloaded.

Furthermore, as your goods will be dealt with by the regular airport staff and not specialist freight forwarders there is a large margin for error.

Air freight on the other hand is directed by a professional freight forwarding company with years of experience dealing with air freight.

Air freight therefore is more of a full service run by experienced professionals with lots of resources available to ensure the smooth delivery of your goods.

As a freight forwarder TE Shipping will deal with all the logistics and take care of the whole process from beginning to end - we will take care of shipping, customs and delivery using our network of contacts and agents across the globe.