Freight forwarding

Air freight

Air freight costs several times what sea freight costs and is worth it exactly when the delay costs more.

What this covers

We arrange air cargo for consignments where the value of arriving early exceeds the freight differential: production stoppages, launch quantities, samples that gate an order, and shipments that missed a vessel and can no longer wait for the next one.

Chargeable weight is calculated on gross weight or on volumetric weight, whichever is greater. Packing therefore changes the price directly, and we will say so before booking rather than after invoicing.

How the shipment runs

  1. Pick-upCollection, weighing and dimensioning, and a check that the packing suits air handling.
  2. ExportBooking, security screening, air waybill issued, export declaration lodged.
  3. FlightMain leg, with transhipment points and connection times identified in advance.
  4. ImportArrival, import clearance, and delivery to the consignee.

Comparison

What determines an air freight quotation
FactorEffect on the shipment
Chargeable weightThe greater of actual gross weight and volumetric weight
DimensionsOversize pieces are limited by aircraft door and hold geometry
CommodityBatteries, aerosols, flammables and magnetised goods follow dangerous goods rules
RoutingDirect services against transhipment through a hub, priced and timed differently
Airport pairsOrigin and destination airports, not cities, determine the tariff

Documents you receive

  • Air waybill, house or master, identified on the booking confirmation
  • Commercial invoice and packing list
  • Shipper’s declaration for dangerous goods where the commodity requires one
  • Material safety data sheet where the commodity requires one
  • Certificate of origin where the destination requires one

Worth knowing