What are the benefits of air freight shipping? It is more reliable, less risky, and cost-effective than ocean freight. You may also benefit from the size and weight restrictions. Read on for more information. Below, you’ll find an overview of some of the biggest advantages and disadvantages of air freight shipping. Here’s a closer look at each. And remember that air freight shipping is not suitable for all types of goods. But with a little research, you’ll be surprised at just how flexible and affordable air freight can be.
Less risky than ocean freight
There are several factors to consider when choosing an option for shipping goods: Cost, speed, and reliability. Although air freight shipping is less expensive than ocean freight, it is still more risky than shipping via sea. Shipping via sea means shipments will be delayed, so customers will likely be unhappy. This is a big problem for businesses that rely on timely delivery of their products. However, air freight shipping is a viable option for smaller-scale operations, especially if a deadline is important.
Another reason that air freight shipping is less risky than ocean freight is that it takes up less time in transit. Because air freight spends less time in transit, it has less exposure to environmental risks. Meanwhile, ocean freight is more vulnerable to weather conditions, port congestion, and damages. It is also more likely to be damaged. Therefore, it’s a good idea to consider air freight shipping when shipping goods via sea.
Cost-effective
When it comes to shipping goods, cost-effective air freight shipping can help businesses save money. By encouraging customers to purchase larger amounts, you can save money each time you ship something. Shipping six to eight pallets together can cost less than shipping two or four pallets every other day. But shipping more than two or four pallets per day means more labor, gas and transportation. Shipping fewer pallets, however, can save your business money.
Air freight is usually a last-resort means of transport, particularly when it comes to perishable or high-value goods. However, it is a good bargain in comparison to ocean shipping, which often results in stockouts or lost sales. By understanding the base rates, you can balance transport costs and inventory carrying costs. When you’re planning your supply chain, you’ll be able to make the most efficient use of the air transportation network.
Reliable
Air freight is the fastest method of transport, especially for delivering goods across vast distances. Cargo aeroplanes can travel at up to 900 km per hour, so it can take only a few hours to transport goods from one continent to another. The reliability of air freight services is also an advantage. The services typically follow daily schedules and often depart hourly, which ensures a seamless transport experience. Reliable air freight shipping also has a variety of convenient options, including overnight services.
To make sure you’re choosing a reputable air freight shipping service, you can check the following important criteria: the company’s physical address; a valid Federal Department of Transportation (FDOT) license; registration with state shipping companies; and insurance coverage. You can also find out a company’s history and reputation by checking customer reviews. These reviews can be extremely helpful in making your decision. You can even find out about the shipping company’s past performance.
Size restrictions
There are a number of different size restrictions for air freight shipping. Typically, you cannot ship items larger than 163 cm, although there are exceptions. The height of a single container is usually not a problem. You will have to determine its length and width before you submit your air freight shipping quote, which will determine whether or not your items will fit. Also, keep in mind that some aircraft have special equipment for carrying cargo that is wider or longer than 163 cm.
Air freight is a convenient method of shipping cargo that is too large or too heavy for trucks. The benefits of air shipping include access to areas that are not otherwise accessible by land or sea. However, some airports do not accommodate wide-body planes, so you may have to change to another shipping method. Air freight shipping companies also have their own size and weight restrictions. For example, it is illegal to ship oversized items or flammable materials on narrow-bodied aircraft.
Disadvantages
The main advantage of air freight shipping is its speed. It can reach remote areas where land transport cannot reach. Besides, air transport is reliable and safe and can reach any point in the world. Air transport also has a high standard of protection for cargo. Security measures at airports are stringent, and the risk of cargo theft is virtually nonexistent. Therefore, air transportation is an excellent choice for any company that needs to move goods to remote regions.
Despite its benefits, air freight shipping has its drawbacks. While the speed of air transportation is unmatched by any other means, it is not appropriate for all shipping scenarios. You must consider your cargo type, budget, speed, and weight before choosing an air transport service. Although air freight is the fastest and safest way to ship cargo, it is not a cheap option, and it can be affected by inclement weather.