How to transport air cargo?

1, Preparation stage
1. Packaging of goods
The safe transportation of goods begins with proper packaging. Air freight goods need to be professionally packaged based on their nature, weight, volume, and potential risks during transportation. Packaging materials should be selected in accordance with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards to ensure that the goods are not damaged during transportation. For special goods such as fragile, liquid, and dangerous goods, special packaging and labeling are also required.
2. Document preparation
Air freight requires a series of supporting documents, including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading (or air waybills), export licenses (if applicable), transportation insurance policies, etc. These documents are not only necessary conditions for customs clearance, but also an important component of the goods transportation contract. It is particularly important to note that for special goods such as dangerous goods, specialized transportation documents and approval documents need to be prepared.
3. Booking cabin space
According to the transportation needs of the goods, the shipper or freight agent needs to book the cabin space with the airline or freight station in advance. When booking a cabin, detailed information about the cargo, including weight, volume, number of pieces, destination, etc., should be provided in order for the airline to arrange transportation capacity reasonably.
2, Transportation process
1. Inspection of goods
Before the goods are transported to the airport, the shipper or freight agent needs to conduct a final inspection of the goods to ensure that the packaging is intact, the markings are clear, and the documents are complete. At the same time, it is necessary to confirm that the quantity, weight, volume, and other information of the goods are consistent with the information provided when booking the cabin.
2. Delivery to the freight station
After inspection, the goods can be transported to the designated freight station for handover. At the freight station, staff will weigh, measure, and verify documents of the goods, and issue a freight bill. The waybill is an important document for the transportation of goods, recording detailed information about the goods and transportation terms.
3. Cargo security check
All air cargo must undergo strict safety checks before being loaded onto the aircraft. Security personnel will use X-ray machines, detectors and other equipment to scan and inspect goods to eliminate any potential safety hazards. For suspicious items discovered, further inspection and processing will be carried out.
3, Transportation process
1. Installation
The goods that have undergone security checks will be loaded onto the scheduled flight. During installation, the staff will carry out reasonable loading based on the weight, volume, and nature of the cargo to ensure the safety and balance of the flight. For special goods, such as dangerous goods, fresh goods, etc., special handling and isolation are also required.
2. Flight
After the cargo takes off with the flight, it will enter the flight phase. At this stage, the transportation safety of goods is the responsibility of the airline company. Airlines will utilize advanced navigation and communication systems to ensure that flights follow the scheduled route and monitor the flight status and cargo transportation in real-time.
3. Arrival and customs clearance
After the goods arrive at the destination airport, they will undergo unloading and sorting operations. Subsequently, the goods will undergo customs inspection and clearance procedures. When clearing customs, relevant documents and proof materials need to be submitted to prove the legality and compliance of the goods. After customs clearance is completed, the goods can enter the logistics system of the destination country for subsequent delivery or self pickup.
4, Subsequent processing
1. Notify the consignee
After the customs clearance of the goods is completed, the freight forwarder or airline will notify the consignee to come and pick up the goods or arrange delivery. Notification methods usually include phone calls, text messages, emails, etc.
2. Delivery of goods
The consignee needs to bring valid identification and relevant documents to the designated location to pick up the goods. When picking up the goods, it is necessary to verify whether the quantity, weight, appearance, and other information of the goods are consistent with the information on the waybill. If there are any problems or damages, please contact the freight forwarder or airline in a timely manner for handling.
3. After sales service
The transportation of air cargo is not limited to the completion of delivery. Freight forwarders or airlines usually also provide after-sales services, such as cargo tracking, insurance claims, complaint handling, etc. These services help to resolve potential issues and disputes during transportation, safeguarding the rights and interests of shippers.