Category: Air Freight

There are several ways to transport your goods and shipment from one location to another and one of them is air freight. What is air freight shipping? What are the advantages and disadvantages of transporting goods by air? In this guide, you will learn more about air freight shipping, cargo, the required documentations and rates. 

What is Air Freight?

Air freight refers to the transportation of goods using an air carrier. For the quickest delivery of goods, it is the go-to choice, however, it is also the most expensive transportation mode. Air freight is a convenient method of transportation to move smaller shipments from one part of the globe to another. Businesses typically rely on air freight service for international trade due to its reliability and speedy delivery.

 

What is Air Cargo?

Air cargo refers to shipments that are transported by air from one place to another. There are 2 distinct types of air cargo shipments – general cargo and special cargo. 

General cargo refers to items such as clothing and electronics, special cargo includes perishable goods and hazardous materials that require special handling and storage. 

 

Advantages of Air Freight Shipping

Below are some of the advantages of shipping by air freight:

1. Fast and Timely Delivery

Air freight is the fastest mode of transport, significantly reducing transit times. This is ideal for businesses that require quick delivery to meet urgent deadlines, ensuring products reach markets promptly. The speed of air cargo shipping is unmatched, making it a preferred choice for time-sensitive goods, including perishable items and high-value products that require expedited delivery.

2. Frequent Flights

Air freight shipping services are known for their reliability, with strict schedules and frequent flights ensuring timely deliveries. This minimizes the risk of delays and helps maintain a smooth supply chain, providing businesses with the confidence that their shipments will arrive on schedule. The consistent scheduling of air cargo flights reduces uncertainty and allows for precise inventory management and planning.

3. Global Reach 

Air freight connects to airports worldwide, providing extensive reach and access to international markets. This global network allows businesses to ship goods to almost any destination with ease, making it possible to tap into new markets and customer bases. Whether shipping to major metropolitan areas or remote regions, air freight offers the flexibility and capability to deliver goods across vast distances.

4. More Security

Airports have stringent security measures in place, reducing the risk of theft and damage. Air freight is a secure option for transporting high-value and sensitive goods, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and luxury items. The controlled environment and tight security protocols at airports and on aircraft help protect shipments from unauthorized access and potential damage, ensuring the safe arrival of valuable cargo. Customs clearance and cargo inspections are more efficient, requiring minimal handling and thus less time required for transit.

5. Real-time Tracking

You are able to track the real-time status of your cargo as most air freight service providers offer web-based tracking services.

 

Disadvantages of Air Freight Shipping

Below are some of the disadvantages of shipping by air freight:

1. Cost: Air freight forwarding is typically costlier compared to other modes of transportation, more expensive than sea or land freight due to the high cost of fuel and airport fees. 
2. Weight Limitations: Compared to the large space on ships, air carriers have limited space, thus imposing strict weight and size restrictions on shipments. 
3. Weather Conditions: Air freight is highly dependent on the weather conditions. Extreme weather conditions like storms, fog or volcanic eruptions can lead to further delays or even cancellations. 
4. Environmental Impact: Air carriers contribute more to carbon emissions as they have a higher carbon footprint than other modes of transport. 
5. Limited Cargo Types: Some goods may be unfit for air freight such as oversized equipment or highly flammable materials. 

 

When Should Businesses Consider Air Freight Logistics?

Businesses should consider using air freight logistics for:

• Time-sensitive or urgent shipments.
• High-value or fragile shipments like luxury items, glass bottles and items that easily break, 
• Perishable goods like fresh produce, medical supplies or live animals that need to reach their destination quickly.

 

Documentation Requirement for Air Freight 

Proper documentation is important for ensuring your goods are cleared when passing through customs efficiently and are compliant with Malaysian regulations. Having the right documents speeds up the process and also reduces the risk of delays and penalties. 

Below are some required documents for air freight in Malaysia: 

1. Airway Bill (AWB): A mandatory document issued by the carrier or freight forwarder that serves as a receipt for goods and outlines the contract of carriage.
2. Commercial Invoice: A detailed document provided by the seller that includes the description of the goods, value, terms of sale, and details of the buyer and seller. This is essential for customs clearance.
3. Packing List: An itemized list detailing the contents of each package, including dimensions, weight, and quantity. This document helps in the verification process during customs inspections.
4. Certificate of Origin (if applicable): A document certifying the country of manufacture of the goods. This is often required for preferential tariffs under trade agreements or to meet specific import regulations.
5. Cargo Manifest: A summary document listing all cargo on a flight, including details such as shipper and consignee information. It is essential for airlines and customs authorities to track shipments.
6. Customs Declaration: A declaration form that must be completed and submitted to Malaysian customs authorities, detailing the nature, value, and classification of goods being imported or exported.
7. Other Relevant Documents (as required): Examples of relevant documents needed for air freight include permits for restricted goods, licenses for certain commodities, hazardous goods declarations (if applicable), or health and phytosanitary certificates for specific cargo types.

For more information on the required documentation or assistance with preparing your air freight shipment, feel free to contact us.

 

Factors Affecting Air Freight Rates

Air freight rates can be affected by several key factors: 

1. Weight and Volume of the Shipment

Air freight charges depend on the weight and volume of your shipment. Heavy or bulky cargo will cost more to be transported by air freight.

2. Distance of the Designated Location

Depending on the destination distance, longer distances typically result in higher air freight charges.

3. Types of Cargo

Certain types of air cargo like hazardous materials or fragile items which require special handling and tighter security will cost more.

4. Item Shelf Life

Temperature-sensitive goods like fresh produce and medical supplies that need to be refrigerated will come with an additional cost due to the equipment they use inside the carriers to maintain the quality of the goods.

5. Fuel Consumption Costs

The fluctuating fuel prices can also greatly affect air freight charges. 

6. Seasonality

Peak holiday seasons can increase air freight charges as there is higher supply and demand. Low season offers better air freight rates. 

 

Challenges in Transporting by Air

When transporting goods by air, while it may be a convenient mode of transport, air freight still faces many challenges. Below are some of the challenges businesses may face with air freight:

1. High Costs: Air freight is more expensive than the other modes of transportation.
2. Weather Disruptions: Weather can be unpredictable. Due to adverse weather conditions such as a storm or strong winds, there may be delays or cancellations.
3. Capacity Limitation: Due to the limited space available on air carriers, large or heavy shipments may be unsuitable for air cargo services. 
4. Regulatory Compliance: It’s crucial for businesses to comply with regulations when handling hazardous or dangerous materials. International shipping regulations vary in different regions and strict regulations are to be adhered to by the air freight industry.
5. Custom Clearance: Custom clearance procedures can be tedious with the extensive paperwork involved. This can be challenging for businesses. Be sure to also be well-informed with the latest regulations to ensure there will not be any delays or cancellations. 

 

Can Individuals or Small Businesses Benefit from Air Cargo?

Yes. Individuals or small businesses can benefit from air cargo to transport goods. Many air freight service providers offer tailored solutions for small-scale operations. Due to its reliability and speed, many individuals and small businesses choose to transport their goods by using air cargo to ensure their goods arrive safe and sound. 

 

Partner with Global Track Lines for All Your Air Freight Needs!

Air freight is one of the go-to choices when it comes to transporting goods to other parts of the globe. Although this mode of transport can be more expensive, it is reliable, convenient and fast, ideal for global supply chains. 

For a seamless logistic process, partner with Global Track Lines for air freight services in Malaysia. We provide reliable and efficient air freight solutions, including handling the customs clearance tailored to meet your logistic needs. We ensure that your goods are handled with care and delivered right on time. Contact us today for more information! 

 

Air freight plays a pivotal role in global trade, enabling the swift and secure movement of goods across continents. From general cargo to special shipments requiring strict handling, air freight ensures timely delivery and caters to diverse industries. This blog explores the 11 common types of cargo transported by air freight, their unique requirements, and the permits or certifications needed, especially in Malaysia.

What is Air Cargo?

Air cargo refers to the transportation of goods via airplanes, offering unmatched speed and global connectivity. Air shipping is commonly used for time-sensitive, high-value, or perishable items. Businesses opt for air freight shipping for its efficiency, reliability, and ability to handle specialized cargo shipments. 

Distinct Types of Air Cargo Shipments

Air cargo can be broadly categorized into two distinct types, general cargo and specialized cargo: 

General Cargo: General cargo includes everyday goods that do not require special handling, storage, or temperature controls during transportation such as consumer goods, machinery and textiles.

Specialized Cargo: Specialized cargo consists of goods that require unique handling, storage, or regulatory compliance due to their sensitive, perishable, or hazardous nature.

 

11 Types of Cargo Transported by Air Freight 

Here’s a breakdown of the common types of cargo transported by air freight carriers:

1. General Cargo

General cargo includes goods that do not require special handling or temperature control, such as textiles, consumer goods, and machinery. These items are often transported via air freight to ensure fast and reliable delivery, especially for businesses that need to meet tight schedules. This type of cargo typically adheres to standard packing and shipping regulations.

Permits in Malaysia: No specific permits are required for non-restricted general cargo unless the items fall under controlled goods.

2. Perishable Goods

This category includes food, fruits, flowers, and other temperature-sensitive items. These shipments rely on air freight because its speed and ability to provide temperature-controlled environments help preserve freshness and preventing spoilage, making it the best option for perishable goods.

Permits in Malaysia: Exporters of food products may need approvals from the Malaysian Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries (MAFI) or compliance with the Malaysia Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS).

3. High-Value Goods

Jewelry, electronics, and luxury items fall into this category. Air shipping is preferred for high-value goods because it offers enhanced security measures and better tracking capabilities, which are critical for safeguarding high-value goods against theft, misplacement, or damage.

Permits in Malaysia: Exporters may need to declare high-value items to Malaysian Customs (Royal Malaysian Customs Department) for accurate valuation and compliance.

4. Pharmaceutical and Medical Supplies

Medicines, vaccines, and medical equipment often require strict temperature control and handling to ensure safety and efficacy. Air transport is crucial for these items due to its reliability, speed, and access to specialized facilities, making it the safest option for sensitive medical shipments.

Permits in Malaysia: Approval from the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) and compliance with the Malaysian National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) are mandatory.

5. Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) such as chemicals, flammable substances, and radioactive items require transport methods that minimize risks to people and the environment. Air freight is suitable for carrying hazardous materials because it follows strict regulations for packaging, labeling, and handling to ensure safe and compliant transportation.

Permits in Malaysia: Exporters must obtain permits from the Department of Environment Malaysia (DOE) and adhere to the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations.

6. E-Commerce Shipments

The rise of e-commerce has led to increased air freight of small parcels, including clothing, gadgets, and cosmetics. Air shipping is ideal for these shipments because it ensures consistent handling and protection for fragile or high-demand items, maintaining customer satisfaction.

Permits in Malaysia: No specific permits are required for most e-commerce shipments unless restricted items are involved.

7. Automotive Parts

Automotive parts such as engines, tires, and electronics are often shipped by air freight because they require careful handling and minimal transit vibration to avoid damage. The fast replenishment provided by air transport helps maintain the supply chain for urgent repairs and manufacturing.

Permits in Malaysia: Approval from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) may be required for specific automotive-related exports or imports.

8. Temperature-Controlled Cargo

This cargo category includes goods such as frozen foods, biotech samples, and other items requiring precise temperature maintenance during transit. Air freight is ideal because it ensures stable environmental conditions for the cargo, preventing deterioration or contamination.

Permits in Malaysia: Depending on the cargo, exporters may need approvals from MAQIS or other relevant bodies for agricultural or biotech goods.

9. Live Animals

Transporting live animals requires specialized containers, feeding provisions, and adherence to animal welfare regulations. Air transport is commonly used to transport live animals because it reduces the stress and risk to the animals by limiting the duration of their journey and providing a controlled environment.

Permits in Malaysia: Approval from MAQIS is required for live animal transportation. Additional permits may be needed from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS).

10. Human Remains and Organs

Air freight is also used for the transportation of human remains or organs for transplantation. Such shipments are treated with utmost care and sensitivity.

Permits in Malaysia: Approval from the Ministry of Health (MOH) and coordination with airlines and customs are essential.

11. Mail Cargo

Letters, parcels, and official documents are often transported by air freight because it provides secure handling and protection against weather or mishandling, which is critical for sensitive or confidential materials. Mail cargo is often transported by air to meet tight delivery schedules, particularly for international destinations.

Permits in Malaysia: No specific permits are required for mail cargo unless it contains restricted or regulated items.

 

Prohibited Goods in Air Freight

Certain goods cannot be transported by air shipping due to safety, legal, or environmental concerns. These include:

• Explosives and weapons.
• Unlicensed controlled substances.
• Corrosive or toxic chemicals.

For more details, refer to the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations and Malaysia’s controlled and prohibited goods list (Customs Department).

 

Can Vehicles Be Shipped by Air Freight?

Yes, vehicles like cars or motorcycles can be shipped via air freight, though it is costlier than sea freight service. This is typically used for high-end vehicles or urgent shipments.

Permits in Malaysia: Approval from the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and MITI may be necessary for importing or exporting vehicles.

 

Conclusion

Air freight is an indispensable mode of transportation for diverse types of cargo, offering unmatched speed and reliability. Whether you’re shipping high-value goods, perishable items, or time-sensitive shipments, understanding the regulations and permits is crucial for seamless logistics.

If you’re looking for reliable air freight services in Malaysia, reach out to GTL for more information on air freight logistics. Our team is experts in handling general and specialized cargo to meet your business needs. Contact us today for more information on our air freight solutions.