Guide to Air Cargo Operations at Andersen Air Force Base

Published: 09/29/2025
Guam Airport Air Freight Guide Customs Clearance Information
This article provides detailed information about Andersen Air Force Base Airport (UAM) in Guam, including an overview, air freight characteristics, and customs clearance procedures. As a non-customs airport, the clearance process is unique, requiring advance understanding of policies and document preparation. It is recommended to use a three-letter code lookup system to improve air freight efficiency. Knowing these specifics is crucial for smooth and compliant air cargo operations through UAM, ensuring timely delivery and avoiding potential delays or penalties.
Guide to Air Cargo Operations at Andersen Air Force Base

For air cargo shipments to or from Guam, understanding Andersen Air Force Base Airport (IATA code: UAM) is crucial. This three-letter code serves as the airport's unique identifier, essential for air waybills and cargo tracking. However, the airport's military status brings specific operational requirements that differ from civilian airports.

KEY FACTS:

  • IATA Code: UAM
  • Full Name: Andersen Air Force Base Airport
  • Location: Guam, USA
  • Time Zone: UTC+10
  • Airport Type: Non-customs military facility
  • Banking Hours: Closed Saturdays and Sundays

MILITARY AIRPORT OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

As a strategic U.S. military installation in the Western Pacific, Andersen AFB operates under different protocols than civilian airports. The non-customs status significantly impacts cargo clearance procedures, requiring special preparation from shippers and freight forwarders.

CUSTOMS CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

Detailed clearance procedures for Andersen AFB are classified as restricted information, accessible only to registered users with proper authorization. This security measure reflects the base's sensitive military nature. Industry professionals should complete necessary registrations well in advance to obtain current clearance protocols.

CRITICAL OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES

  • Advance clearance research: Military clearance procedures may involve additional documentation and security checks compared to civilian airports.
  • Document preparation: Ensure all shipping documents contain accurate, consistent information matching military requirements.
  • Professional support: Consider engaging specialized military cargo handlers familiar with Department of Defense shipping protocols.
  • Banking schedules: Payment processing may be delayed during weekends due to banking closures.

THE ROLE OF AIRPORT CODES IN GLOBAL LOGISTICS

IATA airport codes form the backbone of international air cargo operations. The West Coast Airport Code Database reportedly contains information on over 40,000 global locations, with regular updates from IATA sources. This system provides essential operational details including:

  • Facility specifications and storage rates
  • Cargo labeling requirements
  • Mandatory shipping documents
  • Airport-specific handling instructions

DATABASE SEARCH METHODS

The system supports multiple query formats:

  • Standard search: By IATA code, airport name, city, or country (English or local language)
  • Phonetic search: Using pinyin initials (minimum three letters) for Chinese locations
  • Abbreviated search: Two/three-letter city codes followed by "FF"

Proper understanding of Andersen AFB's unique operational parameters ensures efficient military cargo movements. Given the airport's non-customs status and security requirements, advance preparation using verified information sources remains critical for successful shipments.

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