Air Freight Shipping Guide
Air Freight Shipping Guide
Everything You Need to Know
Air freight is the fastest way to transport goods internationally. Businesses rely on this method to ship urgent items such as pharmaceuticals, sensitive electronics, and perishable goods. Air freight is known for its speed and reliability compared to other transport modes like sea or land shipping.
1. Air Freight Forwarders: Their Role and Services
What Does an Air Freight Forwarder Do?
An air freight forwarder is a person or company specialized in organizing the shipping process. They act as a bridge between you and the airlines, handling responsibilities such as:
Shanghai’s Air Freight Services
Shanghai offers exceptional air freight solutions, including:
Express Shipping
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Dedicated service for time-sensitive goods such as medical supplies and fresh products.
Global Network
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Partnerships with leading airlines to provide international coverage and door-to-door services.
Flexible Cargo Handling
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Capable of transporting oversized cargo, hazardous materials, and sensitive items.
Personalized Solutions
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Tailored services to meet your needs, from selecting the right packaging to choosing the final delivery point.
2. Air Freight Process: Step-by-Step
To better understand how air freight works, here are the main stages:
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1. Transport from Warehouse to Airport
- Goods are collected from the client’s location or warehouse and transported to the nearest airport.
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2. Documentation
Essential documents include:
- Commercial invoices.
- Packing lists.
- Customs declarations.
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3. Airway Bill (AWB)
- A formal document issued by the airline that serves as a contract between you and the carrier.
- Contains shipment details and allows you to track its status.
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4. Loading and Air Transport
- Once customs clearance is complete, the goods are loaded onto the aircraft for transportation to the destination.
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5. Customs Clearance and Delivery
- Upon arrival, the shipment undergoes customs clearance and is delivered to the final destination.
3. How to Calculate Air Freight Costs
What is Chargeable Weight?
Shipping costs are calculated based on the actual weight of the cargo or its volumetric weight, whichever is higher.
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• Volumetric Weight Formula:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 6000
- Example: If a package measures 1 cubic meter with an actual weight of 200 kg, the cost will be based on the actual weight since it exceeds the volumetric weight.
Additional Factors Affecting Costs
- Fuel surcharges.
- Security and customs fees.
- Airport taxes.
- Packaging and delivery handling charges.
- International trade terms (e.g., DDP, CIF) that define who bears additional costs.
4. The Importance of Air Freight Insurance
Why Do You Need Insurance?
Despite its speed and safety, air freight carries risks such as loss, theft, or damage to goods during transit. Insurance provides comprehensive protection against such risks.
Types of Insurance
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• All-Risk Insurance:
Covers all potential loss or damage except for specific cases like negligence or human error.
Tips for Choosing Insurance
- Always secure insurance before the goods are shipped.
- Select a reliable and trusted insurance provider.
- Carefully read the policy to understand what is covered, excluded, and how to file claims.
5. Top 20 Global Air Freight Carriers
Choosing the right airline can lower costs and ensure on-time delivery. Here’s a list of the best air freight carriers worldwide:
- FedEx: Specializes in express shipping services.
- UPS: Provides excellent global coverage.
- Emirates SkyCargo: A leader in international air freight.
- Lufthansa Cargo: One of Europe’s top freight carriers.
- Turkish Airlines: Offers competitive freight services.
- DHL Aviation: Serves over 150 destinations worldwide.
Shanghai partners with these carriers to provide competitive rates and reliable services.
6. Tracking Air Freight Shipments
How to Track Your Shipment?
- Use the Airway Bill (AWB) number to monitor your shipment’s status online via the airline’s website.
- Some carriers offer a unique tracking number to locate your goods and provide estimated delivery times.
Conclusion: Efficient Air Freight Services with Shanghai
Air freight is the ideal solution for transporting goods quickly and securely. By understanding the costs, process stages, and insurance requirements, you can ensure a seamless shipping experience.
Shanghai’s comprehensive services include:
- A global network of reliable air carriers.
- Tailored solutions for all types of cargo.
- Continuous support from pickup to delivery.
Stay informed about your shipment’s progress and invest in the right insurance to protect your goods.