Air freight questions, answered plainly

Air freight is charged per kilogram of chargeable weight, which is the higher of the shipment's actual gross weight and its volumetric weight. Origin handling, documentation, and destination charges are added depending on the service you choose. Each quotation lists these separately.

Volumetric (or dimensional) weight reflects the space a shipment takes up on the aircraft. For dimensions in centimetres, it is calculated as length × width × height × number of pieces ÷ 6000. Light but bulky cargo is therefore charged on its size rather than its weight. You can check your shipment with our chargeable weight calculator.

Because the cargo's volumetric weight is higher than its actual weight. Reducing empty space in cartons, or using smaller cartons, often lowers the chargeable weight noticeably.

Origin and destination, number of pieces, dimensions of each piece, gross weight, a description of the goods, and whether you need collection, delivery or customs clearance. The more accurate the details, the more accurate the rate.

Express air freight prioritises the earliest suitable departure for time-critical cargo. Standard air freight uses scheduled and consolidated services to give a lower rate for cargo that has a little more time. Both travel by air under an air waybill.

Transit depends on the routing, flight frequency, connections and customs procedures at each end. Direct routings to major gateways are typically counted in days rather than weeks. We confirm an estimated transit time with every quotation.

Yes. Collection is included in our door-to-door service and can be added to any other booking.

We coordinate export and import customs clearance through licensed customs agents and prepare or review the supporting documents. Duties and taxes are payable according to the agreed Incoterms.

A commercial invoice and packing list are needed for almost every shipment. Depending on the goods and destination, you may also need a certificate of origin, permits, safety data sheets or other certificates. We confirm the list before booking.

Many dangerous goods can travel by air when they are correctly classified, packed, labelled and declared, and accepted by the airline. Some items are forbidden on aircraft altogether. Tell us exactly what you are shipping, including any safety data sheet, and we will advise.

Use strong export cartons or crates, fill empty space, and make sure each piece is clearly marked with consignee details and piece count. Palletised cargo should be stable and within the size limits we advise for the routing.

Yes. Once the shipment is booked you receive the air waybill number and flight details, and we send updates at key milestones such as departure and arrival.

Cargo insurance can be arranged on request. Airline liability is limited by international conventions, so insuring higher-value shipments is worth considering.