Myths and Facts in Air Freight

Myth

ANYTHING CAN BE SHIPPED BY AIR

Reality

It is possible to ship almost anything, including some hazardous materials. Some items can become extremely hazardous in transit due to the changes in pressure that occur during flight which are restricted from Air freight shipping.

The below are list of some restricted items:

Explosives of any kind including fireworks and detonating fuses.

Gasses such as compressed gas, dry ice, fire extinguishers, gas lighters, and aerosol cans.

Flammables; both solids and liquids.

Toxic and infectious items such as pesticides

Biological products and waste such as medical waste, or dangerous pathogens.

Items that could be dangerous to public health.

Myths & Facts in Air freight

Myth:

HEAVIER ITEMS ARE MORE EXPENSIVE

Reality:

Importers are often surprised to find out that the cost to ship a light weight is sometimes much higher than the cost to send a much heavier package

Shipping industry uses a calculation called “dimensional weight" to determine shipping costs which takes into account a shipment’s size and volume. This allows a carrier to charge based on the actual space a package takes up rather than on weight alone. A carrier will determine a shipment’s dimensional weight and, if the dim weight is more than the actual weight, will use the higher figure to calculate costs.

Myths & Facts in Air freight

Myth:

ITEMS SHIPPED BY AIR IS FREE OF INSPECTION

Reality:

All packages are subject to being selected for inspection but you cannot assume that someone will not be checking your contents.

If you choose air freight shipping, it is important you go according to the Airline package standard depending on the kind of cargo. Ask the air freight carrier to provide proper packaging to ensure all items are replaced safely after inspection.