Air Freight vs. Express Air Freight: Understanding the Difference

Before we dive into the specifics of airline shipping cost, it is important to distinguish between two common terms: air freight and express air freight. While both options involve transporting goods by air, there are key differences in terms of handling, size limitations, and transit times.

Express air freight is typically managed by a single company, such as DHL, UPS, or FedEx, which handles the entire shipment lifecycle and ensures door-to-door delivery in under five days. It is primarily used for smaller shipments, typically less than one cubic meter and 200 kilograms in weight.

On the other hand, international air freight encompasses larger shipments that may involve multiple carriers throughout the journey. It offers greater flexibility in terms of cargo size and is often used for transporting bulkier items. For instance, the Anatov 225, the largest cargo airplane in the world, can accommodate an entire train.

Factors Affecting Air Freight Costs

To accurately calculate airline shipping cost, it is crucial to understand the key factors that influence pricing. Weight and volume play a significant role in determining the cost of air freight shipping. Airlines charge based on either the actual weight or the volumetric weight, depending on which one is higher.

To calculate the volumetric weight for air shipping, multiply the item’s volume in cubic meters by a factor of 167. For example, if you have a package with dimensions of 40cm (W) x 40cm (H) x 40cm (L), the volume would be 0.064 (product of all sides divided by one million). Multiplying this by 167 gives you a volumetric weight of 10.67 kg. If the volumetric weight exceeds the actual weight of the product, the chargeable weight becomes the volumetric weight.

It is worth noting that for light air shipments, you can utilize online tools like the Chargeable Weight Calculator to determine whether your shipment will be charged based on actual weight or dimensional weight.

Air Freight Shipping Prices and Costs

When it comes to air freight shipping, it is essential to consider not only the weight and volume but also the various components that contribute to the overall cost. Let us take a closer look at the different elements that may be included in airline shipping cost:

1. Base Freight Rate: This is the primary cost of shipping the goods by air and is determined by factors such as distance, destination, and carrier.
2. Fuel Surcharges: Airlines often impose additional charges to account for fluctuating fuel prices. These surcharges help offset the cost of fuel consumed during transportation.
3. Security Surcharges: Due to heightened security measures in the air freight industry, carriers may levy security surcharges to cover the expenses associated with maintaining security protocols.
4. Container Freight Station/Terminal Handling Charges: These charges are incurred for the handling and storage of goods at airports or container freight stations. They cover services such as loading and unloading, storage, and documentation.
5. Airport Transfers: Transportation of goods between the airport and the final destination may involve additional costs, such as trucking or ground transportation fees.

For door-to-door services, the total cost will also include additional services such as customs brokerage, pickup and delivery, cargo insurance, and accessorial charges. It is important to consider these factors when estimating the overall cost of air freight shipping.

Benefits of Air Freight Shipping

While air freight may be a more expensive option compared to ocean freight, it offers several distinct advantages that make it a preferred choice for certain shipments. Let us explore the key benefits of air freight:

1. Speed

Airplanes are significantly faster than ocean liners, enabling goods to reach their destination in a fraction of the time. Passenger jets cruise at speeds of up to 575 mph, while maritime vessels travel at a much slower pace of 16-18 mph. This speed advantage allows air freight shipments to be delivered within a matter of days, making it ideal for time-sensitive goods.

2. Reliability

Air freight provides superior tracking capabilities and greater certainty in terms of delivery times. Airlines employ advanced tracking systems that allow businesses to monitor their shipments in real-time, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the transportation process.

3. Protection

Compared to ocean freight, air shipping offers better protection for delicate and fragile items. The controlled environment and shorter transit times significantly reduce the risk of damage during transportation, making air freight a preferred choice for high-value and fragile goods.

When shouldn’t I ship by air?

While air freight offers numerous advantages, it is important to consider the drawbacks before making a decision. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

1. Cost

One of the primary drawbacks of air freight shipping is the higher cost compared to ocean freight. The speed and reliability of air transport come at a premium, making it more expensive for businesses, especially when shipping larger or heavier items. However, it is worth noting that the cost difference between air and ocean freight can vary depending on various factors, including supply chain disruptions and market conditions.

2. CO2 Emissions

Air freight is known to have a significantly higher environmental impact compared to other modes of transportation. According to research conducted by the UK government, shipping 2 tons of cargo for 5,000 kilometers by ocean freight results in approximately 150 kg of CO2 emissions, whereas the same distance covered by air freight can generate as much as 6,605 kg of CO2 emissions. Businesses concerned about their carbon footprint may opt for more sustainable shipping alternatives whenever possible.

3. Size and Weight Limitations

Air freight prices are determined not only by weight but also by size. Airlines consider both the dimensions and weight of the cargo when calculating shipping costs. As a result, shipping larger or heavier items by air can be significantly more expensive compared to ocean freight.

Ideal Goods for Air Freight Shipping

Due to the higher costs associated with air freight, it is typically reserved for specific types of goods that require fast and reliable transportation. Here are some examples of goods that are commonly shipped via air freight:

1. Electronics: With rapid technological advancements and the need to meet consumer demand, electronics manufacturers often rely on air freight to ensure timely delivery of their products.
2. Apparel: The fashion industry operates on tight timelines, with seasonal trends driving the need for quick transportation from factories to retail stores. The small size and high value of clothing items make air freight a viable option.
3. Pharmaceuticals: The time-sensitive nature of medical supplies, including pharmaceuticals and medical devices, necessitates the use of air freight to ensure prompt delivery to healthcare facilities worldwide.
4. Documents and Samples: Air freight is commonly used for shipping time-sensitive documents and samples, especially in industries such as legal, research, and pharmaceutical.
5. Seasonal Shipments: Any product that experiences a surge in demand during specific seasons or holidays may be shipped via air freight to meet customer demands promptly.

It is important to consider the nature of your goods and their shipping requirements when deciding between air and ocean freight.

Air freight shipping rates & charge

In addition to the calculated expense of air freight mentioned earlier, the total cost of shipping by air typically encompasses other factors that should be taken into account. These factors may include:

• Fuel surcharges
• Security surcharges
• Container freight station/terminal handling charges
• Airport transfers

In addition, for door-to-door costs, the price will also include air cargo services, including:

• Customs brokerage
• Pickup and delivery
• Cargo insurance
• Accessorial charges

How to calculate airline shipping cost

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