Air freight is not simply a faster version of ocean freight. Space, piece dimensions, screening, airline acceptance rules and airport cut-offs shape both the schedule and the cost.
Understand the chargeable weight
Start with both actual gross weight and package dimensions. The chargeable weight is often driven by volume rather than the scale reading.
Airport-to-airport is not door-to-door
A quote should state whether collection, security screening, origin terminal handling, airline freight, destination handling and delivery are included.
Prepare documentation before uplift
Dangerous goods, lithium batteries, temperature-controlled items and oversized pieces need early screening for airline and equipment suitability.
Use air freight selectively
Ask for the planned airport pair, transfer points, tender deadline and realistic availability after landing—not merely the advertised flight time.
Questions worth checking
- Check dimensions of each package, not only the total
- Confirm security screening and cut-off time
- Disclose batteries, liquids and regulated cargo
- Compare airline capacity and routing, not just headline days
Chargeable weight and airport handling matter
A plant requiring two urgent replacement motors should first weigh and measure each crate. Cargo billed on dimensional weight can cost more than its scale weight suggests; the declared commodity and any lithium battery or hazardous component may also limit acceptance.
Compare airline-rated cargo to door-to-door services and ask who handles security screening, air waybill data, terminal handling, import release and final truck delivery. Never assume a quote includes all charges at both airports.