Air Freight Guide: When Speed Matters

Air freight is the fastest international shipping method, ideal for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive cargo.

When to Choose Air Freight

• Urgency: Transit time 1–7 days vs weeks by sea
• High-value cargo: Lower insurance risk with shorter transit
• Perishable goods: Fresh produce, pharmaceuticals
• Low volume / high weight ratio: More cost-effective than it appears
• Just-in-time supply chains: Manufacturing parts, samples

Air Freight Pricing

Air freight is charged based on chargeable weight — the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight.

Volumetric weight formula:

Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 6000 = Volumetric Weight (kg)

Key Air Freight Terms

• AWB: Air Waybill (transport document)
• MAWB: Master Air Waybill (carrier to carrier)
• HAWB: House Air Waybill (forwarder to shipper)
• IATA: International Air Transport Association
• DG: Dangerous Goods (special handling required)
• ULD: Unit Load Device (aircraft container)

Service Types

Standard Air Freight

• 3–7 days transit
• Most economical
• Multiple stops possible

Express Air Freight

• 1–3 days transit
• Direct or priority routing
• Premium pricing

Charter

• Dedicated aircraft
• For oversized/urgent cargo
• Highest cost, maximum flexibility

Transit Times (from Europe)

• West Africa: 3–6 days (standard), 1–2 days (express)
• Worldwide: 3–10 days (standard), 1–3 days (express)

Restricted Items

• Lithium batteries (quantity limits)
• Certain dangerous goods
• Perishables (temperature control needed)
• Live animals (special permits)

---

Need urgent shipping? Request a quote for air freight.