Air freight supports modern trade by enabling quick and secure cargo movement worldwide, making it ideal for time-sensitive and perishable goods. However, the operation involves a detailed chain of steps far beyond loading cargo onto an aircraft. The article will discuss the air freight process in detail.
What is air freight?
Air freight is the transport of goods by aircraft for domestic or international delivery, ideal for time-sensitive, high-value, perishable or urgent cargo, moved via dedicated cargo planes or passenger aircraft holds.
Step-by-step air freight process
Here are the steps involved in the air shipment process:
- Step 1: Determine the cargo type, weight and destination and confirm the freight rates.
- Step 2: Reserve cargo space with the airline based on shipment requirements.
- Step 3: Prepare all the required shipping documents.
- Step 4: Collect the shipment and transport it to the airport.
- Step 5: The authorities will screen the cargo for security.
- Step 6: Load the cargo onto the aircraft and initiate departure.
- Step 7: Complete customs procedures upon arrival at the destination.
- Step 8: Transport the shipment from the airport to the consignee’s location.
Key documents required for air freight
For a smooth air freight import process, here is the list of documents you will need:
- Contract of carriage
- Proof of shipment and tracking reference.
- A commercial invoice containing product details, value, HS codes and trade terms is required for customs duty purposes.
- A packing list that specifies cargo contents, dimensions and weight for verification.
- Certificate of origin that confirms the manufacturing country
- Shipper’s letter of instruction
- Proof of coverage against cargo loss, damage or theft.
- Customs declaration
- Dangerous goods declaration
- Import/export licences
- Supporting certificates for health, phytosanitary, inspection, consular or ATA Carnet, as applicable.
Factors affecting air freight charges
Some of the key factors that influence air freight charges are:
- Cargo weight: Heavier goods cost more, as pricing is based on actual or volumetric weight, whichever is higher.
- Cargo volume: Larger or bulky shipments may incur higher charges because airlines price cargo by space occupied.
- Shipment distance: Longer distances increase costs due to higher fuel and operational requirements.
- Cargo type: Fragile, perishable or hazardous goods may attract additional charges because they require special handling and storage.
Common challenges in air freight
Air freight carries certain challenges. Here are some:
- Capacity shortages: Airlines, especially during peak seasons, may have restricted availability. The result? Delays or higher freight rates.
- Weather disruptions: Adverse weather, like storms or fog, can delay flights or reroute cargo.
- Documentation errors: If the paperwork is incorrect or incomplete, such as invoices, airway bills or customs declarations, it may halt your shipments.
- Customs delays: Customs clearance can slow delivery if inspections, tariffs or paperwork issues arise.
Role of cargo insurance in air freight
Cargo marine insurance safeguards air freight shipments against financial loss from damage, theft, delays or natural disasters during transit. As airline liability is limited, insurance ensures adequate coverage based on cargo type, value and destination.
Conclusion
The air freight process is a carefully coordinated system that ensures fast, secure and reliable cargo movement across domestic and international markets. From shipment planning and documentation to packaging, customs clearance and last-mile delivery, each step is critical. However, it is important to understand the factors affecting air freight costs and the challenges associated with it to avoid last-minute hassles.
FAQs
1. What is an Air Waybill (AWB)?
An AWB is a non-negotiable document issued by the airline or forwarder, acting as a contract, shipment receipt and tracking reference for air cargo.
2. How does airport handling work?
Airport handling covers cargo acceptance, security screening, weighing, labelling, storage and preparation for loading, ensuring safe and compliant transfer to the aircraft.
3. What is the loading process in air freight?
Cargo is transferred from storage, secured in pallets or containers and loaded based on weight balance and safety regulations for stable flight operations.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.