Air freight is one of the fastest and safest options for transporting goods between different countries. It is primarily used for high-value products, perishable goods, or urgent shipments that require reduced delivery times. Below, we explain how air cargo transportation works, what is required, and key tips to optimize this shipping method.
How Does International Air Freight Work?
International air cargo transportation follows a series of essential steps to ensure efficiency and security:
Quotation and Space Reservation on the Aircraft
To obtain an air freight quote or calculate air freight costs, the following steps are necessary:
- Contact a cargo airline or freight forwarder for a quotation.
- Define the type of cargo (standard, hazardous, perishable, oversized, valuable).
- Choose between consolidated cargo (shipments from multiple customers) or exclusive cargo (a dedicated flight for the shipment).
- Verify availability on international air transport routes and associated costs.
Packaging and Documentation
The packaging must comply with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations to ensure safety during air cargo transportation. Required documentation includes:
- Commercial Invoice: Describes the products, values, and details of the buyer and seller.
- Packing List: Specifies contents, weight, and dimensions of each package.
- Air Waybill (AWB): The contract of carriage document for air transport.
- Special Permits: Depending on the product (sanitary, phytosanitary, quality, etc.).
- Declaration of Dangerous Goods: For regulated products under IATA DGR standards.
Customs Clearance in the Country of Origin
- Submit documentation to customs to process the air import.
- Review the regulations of the destination country to avoid delays.
- Pay any export tariffs or duties before shipment.
Transportation and Shipment Tracking
- The cargo is transported on dedicated cargo flights or in the cargo hold of commercial flights.
- A tracking number is provided to monitor the status of the international air freight shipment.
Customs Clearance in the Destination Country
- The receiving country’s customs inspects the goods and calculates import duties.
- Additional inspections may be required for high-risk cargo.
- Once approved, the shipment is ready for final distribution.
Delivery to the Final Recipient
- The goods are transported from the airport to their final destination via ground logistics.
- Final documents confirming the receipt of the shipment are issued.
What Is Required for International Air Freight?
To ensure a successful shipment, it is essential to have:
A Reliable Logistics Provider
- This can be a cargo airline, a freight forwarder, or an air transport service company.
- Choosing a provider with real-time tracking capabilities is recommended.
Complete Documentation
- Commercial invoice, packing list, AWB, specific permits, and other required documents depending on the destination.
Proper Packaging
- Must comply with national and international air cargo transport standards.
- Use durable materials and proper labeling.
Knowledge of Customs Regulations
- Each country has different import tariffs and restrictions on certain products.
- Some goods require special permits.
Cargo Insurance
- Protects against damage, loss, or theft during international air freight.
- A global coverage insurance policy is recommended.
Advantages and Disadvantages of International Air Freight
Advantages:
- Speed: Deliveries within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the route.
- Security: Lower risk of theft or damage.
- Less Handling: Fewer intermediaries in the shipping process.
- Real-time Tracking: Facilitates shipment traceability.
Disadvantages:
- High Costs: More expensive than maritime or land transport.
- Weight and Volume Restrictions: Not suitable for large shipments.
- Specific Regulations: Some goods require special permits.
Tips to Optimize International Air Freight
- Request international air freight quotes from multiple airlines to compare prices.
- Plan in advance to avoid extra costs for urgent shipments.
- Choose the best route and airline to optimize time and costs.
- Use lightweight yet durable packaging to reduce costs without compromising safety.
- Check air freight rates and regulations before importing.
- Purchase cargo insurance to prevent financial losses.
- Avoid peak seasons, such as Christmas or Black Friday, when prices may increase.
Learns about the busiest airports for imports to Chile
If you are planning to import to Chile, these are some of the main international airports where you can manage your cargo:
- Campinas International Airport (Brazil): Strict customs requirements and sanitary regulations for perishable goods.
- Shanghai-Pudong International Airport (China): Strict quality control for electronics and textiles.
- Beijing-Capital International Airport (China): Specific regulations for technological goods.
- Indira Gandhi and Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airports (India): Rigorous customs procedures and phytosanitary controls.
- Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas International Airport (Spain): European Union regulations for food and pharmaceutical products.
- Milan-Malpensa International Airport (Italy): Special regulations for luxury and design products.
Final Thoughts
Air freight is an excellent option for urgent shipments and high-value goods. Although air freight costs are higher than other transportation methods, its speed and security make it ideal for certain industries. To optimize costs, it is essential to compare rates, plan shipments, and ensure compliance with customs regulations.
