Air freight

Air Freight, also known as air cargo transportation, is one of the most popular methods of transporting goods worldwide. With many advantages, air freight is widely used for shipping urgent cargo, perishable goods, or high-value products.

Let’s explore with Vina Happy Shipping to better understand what Air Freight is, along with the advantages and disadvantages of this transportation method in the article below.

What is Air Freight?

Air freight is the transportation of goods by air and is one of the most common shipping methods used by businesses worldwide.

• Air freight logistics typically includes all activities, procedures, and services related to the entire air transportation process from the sender to the receiver, such as packaging, labeling, loading, and unloading cargo.

Goods can be transported by air using two types of aircraft. Cargo may be placed in the cargo hold of passenger aircraft or transported on dedicated cargo aircraft specifically designed for freight transportation.

In most cases, companies work with third-party logistics providers (freight forwarders) to optimize transportation costs, delivery time, and ensure efficient shipment handling.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Air Freight Transportation (Air Freight)

1. Advantages of Air Freight

Outstanding Advantages of Air Transportation

• Fast Delivery Speed: Air freight is approximately 27 times faster than sea freight, 8 times faster than rail transport, and 10 times faster than road transport.
• High Safety Level: Air transportation experiences fewer accidents compared to other shipping methods.
• Not Restricted by Geographical Barriers: Direct flight routes make international connections easier and more efficient.
• Reduced Risk of Cargo Damage: Giảm tổn thất do va đập, vỡ.
• Lower Cargo Insurance Costs: Helps businesses save insurance expenses compared to other transportation methods.
• Reduced Warehousing Costs: Faster delivery times help reduce storage and inventory costs.

2. Disadvantages of Air Freight

Besides its advantages, air freight also has some limitations:

• Transportation Costs: Air freight costs are typically 2–4 times higher than road transport and around 8 times higher than sea freight.
• Weather Dependence: Bad weather conditions may cause flight delays or disruptions.
• Limited Capacity for Oversized or Heavy Cargo: Aircraft cargo compartments and loading doors have size and weight restrictions.
• Strict Cargo Inspection Procedures: Air transportation must comply with strict aviation safety and security regulations.

What Types of Goods Are Commonly Transported by Air?

Some common types of cargo transported by air include:

• Time-Sensitive Goods: Products with short shelf lives such as fresh flowers, fresh food, pharmaceuticals, and medical supplies.
• High-Value Goods: Electronics, jewelry, and luxury items are often transported by air for better security and faster delivery.
• Lightweight and Compact Cargo: Air freight is suitable for small and lightweight shipments such as product samples, promotional items, and gifts.
• Rare and Valuable Goods: Artwork, gemstones, and other valuable items are commonly shipped by air to ensure maximum safety and protection.

Common Types of Air Freight Charges

Below are the common types of air freight charges (Air Freight Logistics) that you should clearly understand:

• Minimum Charge (Minimum Rate):
  This is the lowest freight rate accepted by airlines for transporting a shipment.
• General Cargo Rate (GCR):
  This is the standard freight rate applied to general cargo transported between two airports. It does not apply to cargo with specific classified rates.
• Class Cargo Rate (CCR):
  Applied to air cargo shipments that are subject to specific freight classifications and special rates.
• Priority Rate:
  This is a priority freight charge applied to shipments requiring urgent or expedited transportation. Therefore, the cost is usually higher than the general cargo rate.
• Container Rate:
  This is the freight rate applied to goods transported in air cargo containers.

Important Notes When Using Air Freight Services

1. Choose a Professional and Reliable Service Provider

• Research the background, experience, and capabilities of companies providing air freight services.
• Read customer reviews and feedback before making your decision.

2. Understand Whether Your Cargo Is Allowed for Air Transportation

• Carefully review the list of goods permitted and prohibited for air transportation.
• Check detailed information regarding restricted or banned cargo.
• If necessary, contact the airline or the freight forwarding company for specific guidance and consultation.

3. Understand Chargeable Weight Calculation for Freight Costs

There are two methods used to calculate chargeable weight: actual weight and volumetric weight.

For volumetric weight, the freight charge is calculated based on the package volume using the following formula:

$$\text{Length × Width × Height (cm)}÷5000$$

The volumetric weight will then be compared with the actual weight to determine the higher chargeable weight for freight calculation.

4. Packaging Regulations

• Pack goods carefully and securely to ensure safety during transportation.
• Use packaging materials suitable for the type of cargo.
• Follow the packaging guidelines provided by the airline or freight service provider.
• Ensure the cargo does not leak, spill, or become damaged during transit.

5. Regulations on Shipping Time and Cargo Declaration Procedures

• Check the cargo acceptance time and delivery deadlines set by the airline or logistics provider.
• Complete all required cargo declaration procedures, including cargo declarations, commercial invoices, transport receipts, and related documents.
• Pay all applicable taxes and service fees according to regulations.
• Provide complete sender and receiver information, including full name, address, phone number, and tax identification number (if applicable).

Conclusion

In conclusion, air freight offers many advantages such as time flexibility, high security, and significantly reduced transportation time. To maximize the benefits of Air Freight, businesses should work closely with reputable freight forwarding companies that have professional air import procedures and a strong global partner network.

Vina Happy Shipping Air Freight Logistics Services

Vina Happy Shipping is an agent for many international airlines, providing comprehensive air freight services to most countries around the world. In Vietnam, Vina Happy Shipping cooperates with two major air cargo terminals, SCSC and TCS, ensuring safe cargo storage and handling.

In addition to air freight services, Vina Happy Shipping also provides integrated transportation solutions combined with sea freight and road transportation to optimize delivery time and transportation costs, including:

• Airport to Airport
• Door to Airport
• Airport to Door
• Door to Door

For the fastest consultation and support regarding air freight services, please contact Vina Happy Shipping directly through our hotline or official website.