If you are in the business of shipping internationally, you have probably considered air freight services as a method of getting your cargo to its destination. If you need a technique that is cost-effective and quick, international air freight may be the perfect solution for your supply chain.
The majority of goods shipped to other countries travel by ocean freight, but if you need a quick transit time or have time-sensitive items like seasonal clothes or pharmaceuticals, air freight transport is an excellent option. Before you choose, however, there are some aspects of air freight cargo to consider.
Services
Some air freight forwarders offer door-to-door service among their other added services. These services include air charter for when the regularly scheduled air times don’t cut it, shipment monitoring, and timely updates.
From developing countries, the most common exports are electronic parts, cut flowers, and perishables. The advantage that comes from using air freight involves being able to get goods from one destination to another quickly. To do this, an air freight forwarder must use a streamlined shipment process.
Air freight shipment is typically more expensive than shipping by road or ocean, but the cost comes with some significant benefits. Some of the markets that have made the most use of air freight include high-value items or time-sensitive countries.
There are some things, such as hazardous and flammable materials, that an air freight forwarder cannot legally transport. Check with your freight forwarder to make sure items on your packing list aren’t on their no-fly list.
Cost
Air cargo includes many of the same services as ocean cargo. One of the significant differences between air and ocean freight services is the cost. So what is essential to look at when you’re considering air freight for your business?
Air freight transport calculates the cost of shipments by looking at actual weight versus dimensional (or volumetric) weight, calculated by the shipment’s length, width, and height. For shipping purposes, most freight forwarders calculate this weight using the minimum density allowed by the carrier.
The fact that air freight calculates by weight makes this service an excellent choice for light goods or ones that are time-sensitive.
There are other charges involved with using an air freight service, and these may include:
- Fuel surcharges that reflect the changing price of fuel in different countries or seasons.
- Container freight station fees are charged for the temporary storage of the cargo. Once the customs documents are checked, the load is released.
- Security surcharges result from any screening or handling processes goods must go through according to the Airline Security Regulations published by the FAA.
- Airline terminal fee applies to both the airport at the origin and the destination and covers any costs accrued handling the cargo.
Efficiency
Although the cost is higher, the main goal is the same – to get goods from one destination to another. One of the most beneficial aspects of air cargo is the speed with which it delivers your products. If you’re choosing between air freight and ocean freight, but you have to get something to a destination in only a few days in real-time, air cargo is the quickest option.
Timeliness of an air freight cargo depends on four factors: cargo inspection procedures, the efficiency of the handlers, sufficient storage facilities, and customs clearance procedures. If all these elements integrate smoothly into a freight forwarder’s logistical system, then your goods will be on time, all the time.
Final Thoughts
Asiana USA can help you manage your supply line. Our highly professional staff can coordinate the logistics when you ship internationally in the air or using any other method of transportation. Contact us at info@asianausa.com or call us at (323)-250-9407 to request a quote for air freight services.