Best Practices When Shipping by Air | Freight Services, Inc

Air freight offers several advantages over other methods of shipment, including less handling and a lower possibility of freight damage. However, air freight also has its own shipping requirements. To help you take full advantage of all that air freight has to offer, we’ve put together some tips that will help you when it’s time to prepare your shipments.  Following these simple guidelines and best practices will help ensure your package arrives at its destination safely and on time.

Choose the Right Air Freight Carrier

Airfreight providers differ. When selecting an airfreight partner, consider the size and location of their warehouse if you need storage. Also consider their approach to customer service. Do they provide real-time tracking? Are they able to provide flexibility when it comes to billing? The answers can make a big difference in how smoothly your shipments go. So do your research beforehand.

Understand the Airport’s Shipping Capabilities

To move your shipment quickly and efficiently, understand the capabilities of the airport involved. What types of aircraft do they use? What are the weight and size limits for packages? Knowing the answers to these questions will help you avoid any potential roadblocks and shipment delays.

Know Your Commodity

Some commodities simply suit air freight better than others. Unsure whether you can ship your commodity by air? Ask your provider. They can tell you if it’s possible and what the risks are. 

Package Your Goods Properly

To make sure your goods arrive in one piece, package them properly. This matters even more for airfreight. Use new, undamaged packaging material. If you reuse material, make sure it’s still in good condition. In addition, cushion all items so they don’t shift and get damaged in transit. 

Get Your Documentation in Order

Last but not least, don’t forget about the importance of documentation when shipping via airfreight. You’ll need a commercial invoice listing the value of the goods. You’ll also need an Air Waybill, which is both a receipt for the goods and a contract with the carrier. Complete all paperwork accurately and in full. Otherwise, you may face significant delivery delays. 

Shipping by air is a great option when time-sensitive freight needs to be at its destination quickly.  Following the above best practices will definitely get you set for shipping success.  Sometimes, though, it’s just easier to reach out to a freight solutions specialist to meet your immediate needs.  The team of experts at Freight Services, Inc will work with you to develop a custom solution that meets the specific needs of your business while handling all the details of your shipments. Plus, their comprehensive solutions can save you time and money while giving you peace of mind knowing that your shipments are in good hands. Reach out to FSI today to learn more about how we can help your business succeed.