Comparison and Pricing Analysis of Express Delivery and Air Freight Services

This article discusses the distinctions and pricing issues between express delivery and air freight services in international logistics. Customers often confuse the nature of these two services, focusing solely on weight during inquiries while neglecting their actual needs. Traditional air freight only delivers to the airport, while express delivery offers door-to-door service.
Comparison and Pricing Analysis of Express Delivery and Air Freight Services

In international logistics, air freight and express delivery services are often confused. Many clients focus solely on shipment weight when requesting quotes, overlooking their actual service requirements. For instance, when a customer wants to transport 200kg of goods to Los Angeles, they typically ask only for "air freight rates." However, in practice, their expectations may not align with traditional air freight services but rather reflect a simple price inquiry. This underscores the need for sales personnel to engage in thorough communication to understand clients' precise needs.

Traditional air freight generally transports goods only to the destination airport. Customers need only provide basic information—such as product description, number of pieces, weight, dimensions, and destination port—to obtain a quote. In contrast, express delivery services offer complete door-to-door shipping options. For these services, clients must provide the product description, number of pieces, weight, dimensions, and destination country details, with the important caveat that quoted prices typically exclude customs duties.

The primary advantage of express delivery lies in its premium service quality and faster transit times. Recognizing these distinctions and each service's unique characteristics proves crucial for customers making informed logistics decisions.