Air freight is quite popular among businesses who want speedy deliveries. Yet the process is quite intimidating. Custom clearance, shipment tracking, and cost estimation are elements of air freight that can really complicate the process.
Nevertheless, an air freight forwarding agent can make this process a breeze. From loading your merchandise to final delivery, air freight forwarders can guide you at each step of the process.
But who is a freight forwarder? Here is an ultimate guide about freight forwarding and how an air freight forwarder actually makes the air shipping process easier.
What is air freight forwarding?
At its core, air freight forwarding is a service provided by logistics companies to manage the shipment of goods by air. But this does not mean an air freight agent physically loads and unloads your cargo.
They actually manage the logistics involved in the shipment of your goods at the back end. It involves processes like documentation and communication necessary for the shipment. Their job is to keep everything on track so your shipment arrives on time and without any problems.
Do you need an air freight forwarder?
If you have time-sensitive and high-value shipments, you would most probably turn to air freight for its speed and efficiency. But the challenges that come with air freight can put you off.
Many companies that underestimate these difficulties have faced significant setbacks. From frequent rate fluctuations and cargo restrictions to limited response times, these issues can be quite stressful.
Moreover, even a minor mistake can result in hefty detention and demurrage fees. These challenges are precisely why many businesses choose to work with an air freight forwarding agent.
Services offered by an air freight forwarder
So, what does an air freight forwarder offer to facilitate your shipment? In a nutshell, everything! But to dig out their key role, here is what is involved in air freight forwarding services.
Before shipment departs
For an outsider, shipment involves taking goods from point A to point B, but in reality, the process before loading your goods onto the carrier is much more complex. The value of goods, packaging, weight, distance, and documents are some of the many factors involved in air freight forwarding.
An air shipping forwarder manages each of these processes carefully. They work with your supplier, and their knowledge takes you through these complex processes with the utmost ease.
Import/export clearance
The last thing you want is your shipment delayed after opting for such an expensive transportation mode. But the biggest threat is those customs officials waiting for you before the export of your goods and after they reach the destination airport.
You need the right air freight documentation to successfully pass through this phase. However, the diversity of rules and regulations in different countries can put you in hot water.
Thanks to years of expertise in this niche, international air freight forwarders already know what you need to pass through customs clearance based on your cargo types and the requirements of the countries involved. So you don’t have to suffer an unnecessary headache.
Related Reading: Can I ship lithium batteries via air?
Air carrier selection
Air shipment is not like air travel where you just buy a ticket and get aboard. Air freight has to get through strict safety and security laws. Since there are so many air carriers and shipments, there is always a chance to load dangerous cargo on the plane that goes undetected.
An air freight agent takes responsibility at this stage as well. They select which plane is best suited for your type of shipment to ensure its safety. In addition, factors like travel routes, aviation schedules, booking procedures, etc, matter a lot for your shipment. An air freight forwarder should consider these factors while selecting the best option for your shipment.
Cost negotiation
Air freight is expensive, you know that. Some airlines can charge you a fortune, and an amateur can easily get scammed by those hefty fees. Luckily, an experienced air freight forwarder like Foresmart has a strong network of contacts with shipping lines.
You can get way better quotes than if you do it on your own. Besides, the networking capabilities of an air forwarding agent can help you avoid costly delays.
Cargo reservation
Once the price is selected, an air forwarding agent performs another key role. This is to authenticate your addresses confirmed on the air carrier. They help to provide any additional information required for confirmation of your shipment.
Plus, they gather details of the aircraft like flight number, plane number, and air waybill number (for tracking the shipment), among others.
Packaging & storage
Not all, but many freight forwarders offer packaging and storage services. Packaging is a crucial stage of the shipment for your cargo’s safety and compliance, so it should be left in the hands of professionals if possible. Not only does a forwarder offer storage options, but the warehouses they provide can be climate-controlled and secure at a fair price.
Besides, most businesses that ship goods internationally need storage solutions, whether in the country of origin, the destination, or both. Fortunately, they can rely on freight forwarders like Foresmart to handle this as well. Plus, Foresmart always suggests you insure your goods for fear of any accident happening during transportation, adding an extra layer of protection. We usually charge 0.3% of the cargo value as the insurance fee.
Final words
This is what an air forwarding agent does to organize your air shipment. From export haulage to final destination, their valuable expertise streamlines the whole chain of shipment. The best air freight forwarder ensures your shipment reaches the destination in the best possible way.
FAQs
What is the difference between a freight forwarder and an air carrier?
Both of them are responsible for delivering your goods by air; however, the freight forwarder does not own those trucks or planes. They work behind the scenes to handle all your logistical needs during air shipment. An air carrier is just responsible for transporting your goods to another airport by plane.
How do you handle customs in air freight forwarding?
Permits, licenses, air waybills, certificates of origin, invoices, and packing lists are necessary customs documentation. Air forwarding agents work with your factories or suppliers to make sure these documents are ready to deliver to the customs broker.
How to choose the best air freight forwarder?
While choosing an air freight forwarder, look for their track record, industry experience, and customer reviews to ensure they are capable of handling your logistical needs.
