Today, in an interconnected world, you may rely heavily on quick and reliable logistics solutions. Moreover, from the many options available, what is air freight service? It is the fastest and most efficient way of transporting goods across long distances. Whether you need to send urgent medical supplies, high-value electronics, or time-sensitive documents, air freight ensures speed, safety, and precision in delivery.
Why Choose VS Global Services?
There are several reasons why air freight services continue to dominate global logistics, despite having a higher price point.
- Speed: However, deliveries that may take weeks by sea can be completed in a matter of days by air.
- Reliability: Airlines follow strict schedules, which ensure on-time departures and arrivals.
- Global Reach: With our air freight service, you can connect even remote locations across continents.
- Security: High-value or sensitive goods are safer due to strict airport security protocols.
- Tracking: Real-time tracking provides you with complete visibility of your shipment.
What are the Types of Air Freight Service?
Air freight is not one-size-fits-all, yet, depending on the urgency, budget, and nature of goods, you can choose from different options:
Express Air Freight: It is the fastest and premium service, which delivers within 24–48 hours and is used for critical documents, medical shipments, or urgent deliveries.
Standard Air Freight: A balance between cost and speed, typically takes 3–5 days, and is ideal for regular business shipments.
Consolidated Air Freight: This involves grouping multiple shipments from different people into one load. This reduces costs but may take slightly longer.
Charter Air Freight: A dedicated aircraft is hired for special cargo and used for oversized equipment, large-scale industrial goods, or emergency relief supplies.
Industries That Rely on Air Freight
Air freight service plays a crucial role in shipping across many sectors.
- E-commerce and Retail: Fast delivery for international online orders.
- Healthcare: While urgent delivery of vaccines, medicines, or medical equipment is required.
- Electronics: When you want to transport fragile, high-value products like mobile phones or laptops.
- Automotive: Shipping spare parts and machinery across borders quickly.
- Fashion and Luxury Goods: You can deliver designer apparel and luxury items to global markets.
What is the Rate of Air Freight Per Kg?
There is a concern regarding the pricing. Many of you wonder: What is the charge per kg for air freight in India? Air freight charges are calculated based on two factors:
Actual Weight: The weight of the shipment.
Volumetric Weight: The size of the package.
The higher of the two is considered for billing. Additional charges may include:
- Fuel surcharges
- Customs duties and clearance fees
- Handling charges at airports
- Insurance for high-value goods
What are the Benefits and Limitations of Air Freight Service?
There are various benefits of using air freight service, but it also has limitations that you must check before booking the services. You can check our website to know more about the air freight service and its prices.Â
Advantages of Air Freight Service
- Quick Transit Time: Goods can reach the other side of the world within a few days.
- Less Risk of Damage: Shorter transit time means reduced handling and minimal chances of damage.
- Suitable for Small Delivery: Air freight is perfect for lightweight but high-value shipments.
- Flexibility: The airlines operate frequent flights, offering businesses flexibility in scheduling shipments.
Limitations of Air Freight Service
- Higher Cost: The air freight service is more expensive in comparison to sea or road transport.
- Size Restrictions: Very heavy or oversized shipments may not be suitable for air transport.
- Weather Dependency: Flights may face delays due to weather conditions.
- Customs and Documentation: International shipments require proper paperwork to avoid delays.
What is Air Freight Forwarding?
It is a process of coordinating and organizing the shipment by air on your behalf. A freight forwarder is an intermediary between you and various transportation services, ensuring the cargo is delivered efficiently, securely, and on time.
Booking Cargo Space: The forwarder books the space with airlines for cargo transport, based on the size, weight, and urgency of the shipment.
Documentation: We prepare and manage all essential paperwork, such as the commercial invoices, packing lists, and customs declarations.
Customs Clearance: Forwarders assist in clearing goods through customs at both origin and destination.
Packaging and Labeling: They must ensure that cargo is adequately packed and labeled according to the airline and destination’s laws.
Pick/drop Delivery: We provide you with additional services, including pick-up from the sender’s location and delivery to the final receiver.
Tracking: Real-time tracking and status updates are provided throughout the shipping process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does air freight take for deliveries?
Air freight is the fastest delivery method, that takes 2–5 days for international deliveries, depending on the distance, airline schedules, and customs clearance.
Is air freight expensive than sea freight?
Air freight costs more than sea freight because of faster transit times, limited cargo space, and higher operational costs of airlines. However, it is cost-effective for urgent, lightweight, or high-value shipments.
What types of goods are best suited for air freight?
Air freight is ideal for time-sensitive, high-value, and lightweight goods, such as electronics, documents, pharmaceuticals, spare parts, and perishable items like flowers or seafood.
How are air freight charges calculated?
Charges are based on the higher of actual weight or volumetric weight. Additional fees may include fuel surcharges, customs clearance, and handling charges.
Can I track my shipment when using air freight service?
Our courier services and freight companies provide real-time tracking with a unique tracking number, which allows you to monitor the shipment from pickup to final delivery.
