Related Glossary
What is Air Freight?
Air freight refers to the transportation of goods by aircraft. It is the fastest mode of international cargo movement and is primarily used when speed, reliability, or the value of the shipment is a priority. Unlike sea or road transport, air freight connects global markets quickly, making it vital for time-sensitive and perishable goods.
Key Points
Speed: The fastest option for long-distance international shipping.
Cost: More expensive than sea or road transport. The cost is calculated based on chargeable weight, which is the greater of the actual weight or volumetric (dimensional) weight .
Security: Provides high level of cargo security due to strict airport protocols and airline procedures.
Suitable Cargo: Ideal for transporting electronics, pharmaceuticals, perishables (like fresh flowers or seafood), and high-value goods.
Networks: Operates through airports and utilizes dedicated cargo airlines (like FedEx, Emirates SkyCargo) and commercial passenger airlines carrying cargo in their belly space.
Documentation: Requires an Air Waybill (AWB) as the primary transport document.
Example Scenario
A medical equipment supplier in Germany needs to deliver life-saving ventilators to a hospital in India. Shipping by sea would take several weeks, which is not acceptable in this critical situation. Instead, the supplier books an air freight service, and the goods are flown directly, reaching the hospital in just two days. This ensures timely delivery and saves lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is air freight more expensive than sea freight?
Air freight is more expensive because aircraft have limited space and higher operating costs like fuel, handling, and airport fees. As a result, the per-kilogram shipping rate is significantly higher than that of sea transport.
2. What is the chargeable weight in air freight?
Chargable weight is the weight used to calculate the freight cost. It is based on whichever is higher, i.e., the actual weight or the volumetric (size-based) weight of the cargo.
3. Can any type of cargo be shipped by air?
No. Some dangerous/hazardous goods such as flammable liquids or explosives have restrictions under IATA regulations. Additionally, large, oversized cargo may not be suitable for air transport due to aircraft size limitations.
4. How long does international air freight take?
An international air freight can typically take 1–5 days, depending on the route, customs clearance, and airline schedules.
5. Is tracking available in air freight?
Yes. Most airlines and freight forwarders provide real-time tracking using the Airwaybill (AWB) numbers.
Additional Insights
Air Waybill (AWB): The most important document in air freight. It serves as a receipt, a contract of carriage, and a tracking reference.
Console & Direct Shipments: Freight forwarders often consolidate smaller shipments from multiple shippers into one larger consignment (console) to reduce costs. Alternatively, direct shipments are used when speed or cargo type requires dedicated handling.
Capacity Factor: Airlines must balance cargo loads with passenger baggage and aircraft range. During peak seasons like Christmas, Chinese New Year,space is limited, and rates often increase..
Tip for Beginners: Always verify both the actual weight and dimensions of a shipment before quoting customers. As underestimating volumetric weight is a common mistake.