Main Types of Air Freight Shipping
In the field of air freight, several types of shipping are available to meet the various needs of shippers. Each type has specific characteristics, advantages, and constraints that are important to understand in order to choose the most suitable solution for your goods.
Direct Shipping
Direct shipping (Direct Shipment) is the simplest type of shipping in air freight. It involves sending goods directly from the shipper to the recipient without consolidation with other shipments.
Main Characteristics:
- Single AWB (Air Waybill) for the entire shipment
- No consolidation with other shipments
- Point-to-point transport without transshipment
- Ideal for urgent or large shipments
- Simplified shipment tracking
Direct shipping is particularly recommended for large shipments, time-sensitive goods, or those requiring special attention.
Consolidation
Consolidation is a type of shipping that involves grouping several small shipments destined for the same region into a single batch. This method helps reduce transportation costs by optimizing cargo space.
Main Characteristics:
- Use of a MAWB (Master Air Waybill) for the entire consolidation
- Each individual shipment has its own HAWB (House Air Waybill)
- Reduced transportation costs for small shipments
- Potentially longer lead times due to the consolidation process
- More complex documentation management
Consolidation is particularly suitable for small shipments that would not economically justify air transport on their own.
Express Shipping
Express shipping is a premium service offering very short delivery times, often with a guaranteed deadline. This type of shipping is usually managed by specialized integrators.
Main Characteristics:
- Very short delivery times (24-72 hours depending on the destination)
- Door-to-door service
- Real-time shipment tracking
- Higher cost than other types of shipping
- Potential limitations in terms of weight and dimensions
Express shipping is ideal for documents, samples, urgent spare parts, or any other shipment requiring fast delivery.
Charter Shipping
Charter shipping involves renting an entire aircraft to transport goods. This solution offers maximum flexibility but is also the most expensive option.
Main Characteristics:
- Entire cargo capacity dedicated to a single client
- Total flexibility in terms of schedules and destinations
- Ideal for very large or oversized cargo
- Suitable for emergency situations or destinations not served by regular flights
- Very high cost
Charter shipping is generally used for specific projects, emergency situations, or exceptional goods.
Comparison of Different Shipping Types
| Shipping Type | Lead Time | Cost | Volume | Flexibility | Tracking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Shipping | Medium | Medium | Medium to Large | Medium | Good |
| Consolidation | Long | Low | Small | Low | Medium |
| Express Shipping | Very Short | High | Small to Medium | Medium | Excellent |
| Charter Shipping | Variable | Very High | Very Large | Excellent | Excellent |
How to Choose the Right Shipping Type?
The choice of shipping type depends on several factors:
- Delivery Urgency: If time is critical, express or direct shipping will be preferred.
- Shipment Volume and Weight: Small shipments are better suited for consolidation, while large shipments will require direct or charter shipping.
- Available Budget: Consolidation offers the most economical rates, while charter shipping is the most expensive option.
- Nature of Goods: Hazardous, perishable, or high-value goods may require specific shipping types.
- Destination: Some destinations may be better served by certain shipping types than others.
Practical Advice
To optimize your transportation costs while meeting your time constraints, consider combining different shipping types based on the nature and urgency of your shipments. An experienced freight forwarder can advise you on the best strategy for your specific needs.
