International air freight has become an indispensable part of modern logistics supply chains. With its unique timeliness and efficiency, air transport effectively reduces delivery times, accelerates capital turnover, and significantly enhances overall supply chain operations, providing strong support for global business development.
As global trade continues to expand, demand for air freight is growing steadily, securing its increasingly important position in international cargo transportation. However, despite its numerous advantages, air freight costs remain higher compared to sea shipping. Therefore, businesses need to understand basic knowledge and relevant terminology when choosing international air freight to make appropriate logistics decisions.
Key Elements of Air Freight Quotations
When requesting international air freight quotes, several critical elements must be clarified. These factors directly impact transportation costs and affect the timeliness, safety, and integrity of shipments:
- Commodity Name: The most basic information, as different commodities may have specific handling and transportation requirements.
- Quantity, Weight, Dimensions, and Volume: These determine freight calculation methods. Typically, the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight is used as the chargeable weight.
- Packaging Method: Clear specifications of packaging forms (cartons, pallets, wooden cases, etc.) ensure proper handling and transportation safety.
- Destination Airport: Crucial for arranging optimal transport routes and schedules.
- Flight Requirements: Different industries may have varying time sensitivity requirements. Perishables and medical equipment often have stricter arrival time constraints.
- Delivery Time Requirements: Specific receiving deadlines should be communicated in advance for proper scheduling.
Essential Air Freight Terminology
Understanding key terminology helps businesses navigate air freight processes and cost structures:
- ATA/ATD: "Actual Time of Arrival" and "Actual Time of Departure" - critical for tracking shipment status.
- ETA/ETD: "Estimated Time of Arrival" and "Estimated Time of Departure" - essential for logistics time management.
- Air Waybill: The legally binding contract document between shipper and carrier.
- CAO (Cargo for Freighter Only): Designation for cargo requiring dedicated freighters, typically for oversized or heavy shipments.
- Freight Collect: Transportation costs borne by the consignee upon delivery.
- Freight Prepaid: Shipping costs paid by the shipper before dispatch.
While international air freight carries higher costs, its speed and reliability make it an essential choice for efficiency-driven businesses. By mastering fundamental air freight knowledge and terminology, companies can operate more smoothly in international trade and create greater business value.
