What Is Air Freight Logistics?

A simplified breakdown of Air Freight Logistics and Air Transportation Charges

Air logisticsAs the name suggests, air freight logistics is the transfer and shipment of goods via an air carrier, which may be charter or commercial. This is a popular choice for many in the business of logistics as shipments can be sent from commercial and passenger aviation gateways to anywhere that a plane can fly and land.

Goods transported by air also have the advantage of high-speed, time-sensitive shipments to anywhere in the world, serving invaluable to smaller and mid-sized companies as it allows them to participate in international trade in an expeditious and effective manner. Furthermore, air freight offers the highest level of security as airport controls regulate and manage all cargo entering and leaving certain areas.

What is air cargo?

Now that you know air cargo is any property carried in an aircraft, let’s take a closer look at what exactly it constitutes. Air freight is most commonly used for urgent and high-value items that need special handling and management. This could be anything from dry goods such as textiles, retail or consumer goods, machinery, hardware and electronics, to temperature controlled, heavy weight and over-dimensional cargos.

Why use a freight forwarder?

To be frank, there’s a whole lot to consider when you’re thinking of using air freight as a mode of transport. These are also usually things that only specialists are aware of, never mind knowing how to properly implement the different processes involved. A freight forwarder takes care of the whole process with a one-stop solution at a reasonable price, handling intricate dealings with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and strenuous regulations that control what is allowed on board.

A freight forwarder also takes care of all the paperwork involved when trading internationally. This includes:

  • Tracking Inland Transportation;
  • Preparation of Shipping and Export Documents;
  • Warehousing;
  • Booking Cargo Space;
  • Negotiating Freight Charges;
  • Freight Consolidation;
  • Cargo Insurance; and
  • Filing Insurance Claims.

Air transportation charges

Australian Air transportation charges depends on the option you choose, with transit rates varying from 1-2 days for urgent freight and 5-7 days for a more cost-effective solution. Seatram provides specialist international air freight quotes at competitive rates. Feel free to also view our International air freight services. For more Freight forwarding advice please see our other articles.