If you’re considering sending your goods by air, it’s important to understand all the regulations, costs, and benefits of the method. You can also learn about the options available and the pros and cons of air cargo shipping. This article will give you the facts you need to make an informed decision. Read on to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of air cargo shipping. We’ll also discuss how to avoid any of the common problems that can arise during air cargo shipping.

Regulations

It’s important to be aware of the regulations that govern air cargo shipping, and understand what they mean for your shipment. For example, it’s important to know how air cargo is rated, and how much you need to pay the airline. You can find the current rates for air cargo shipping by checking TACT. Also, keep in mind that you’re responsible for providing clear shipping instructions to the airline. The following sections will provide some helpful information.

Known shipper database. The TSA’s database is a centralized source of information on known shippers. By linking an air cargo management system to this database, regulated parties can automatically verify shippers’ information. TSA’s centralized database allows the agency to vet known shippers and assess the threat to the air transportation system. The TSA will work with regulated parties to resolve any concerns about system continuity.

Cost

The cost of air cargo shipping is significantly higher than ocean shipping, but for many industries, it is necessary for expedited deliveries. In the past, air transportation was as much as 13 to 15 times more expensive than ocean shipping. Today, air transportation costs are between three to five times as much as ocean transportation. Regardless of whether your shipment is for business or pleasure, you need to consider the costs before you choose the best shipping method. Below are some things to consider when comparing ocean and air cargo shipping.

First, you’ll need to determine the weight of your package. Air cargo charges are based on weight, whether it’s volumetric or simple gross. Volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying the volume of a package by 167 to determine its chargeable weight. The weight of your package should be more than half of that. Once you know how much your package weighs, you can choose the carrier that best fits your shipping needs.

Disadvantages

Although air freight is a convenient way to ship packages, there are some cons associated with this method as well. Some items are prohibited from air shipping, while others require extra safety and permits. In addition, air freight can be expensive, and some of the most common types of cargo cannot be shipped by air. Here are the major advantages and disadvantages of air freight:

First, air transport is fast, which minimizes the amount of time it takes to transport shipments. This is an advantage if your product is fragile or requires special storage conditions. However, shipping time can be longer than a week. Additionally, air transport has a limited capacity, making it more expensive than other means of transportation. Despite the cons, air transport is a popular option for companies looking to ship perishable goods and other goods with a high economic value. In addition to this, the procedures are simple and reliable, making air transport an excellent option for small or local shipments.

Options

Fortunately, air cargo shipping is fast and affordable. Air freight delivery services have several options to choose from, including express shipping, next-day air, and consolidated shipping. In addition to the different methods, you can select an air charter, which will secure capacity and allow you to use a specific aircraft for your shipment. Next-day air is the fastest way to ship air cargo within 24 hours, while second-day air offers a good balance between cost and speed.

Commercial aircraft are the most convenient option for small shipments, but the space available is limited. Commercial aircraft are designed to carry pallets and shipping containers. Their cargo is transported in the cargo hold, which means additional safety requirements and restrictions. A cargo aircraft is designed to carry anything from small items to large machinery and is also less regulated by TSA regulations. The downside to using commercial air freight is the cost, however. You should consider all your options when shipping a large or heavy shipment.