What types of air cargo are transported by air?

1. Types of commodities that are permitted for air transportation

Have you made the distinction between special and general goods when they are flown? If not, Dolphin Sea Air can assist you in categorizing the following types of air cargo:

1.1 General Cargo

Generally speaking, general products are those that are not on the list of special commodities. However, there is no specific treatment or process needed for this kind of cargo when it comes to shipping.

Additionally, common products including apparel, shoes, dry goods, hardware, and fabrics are all well-liked retail and consumer commodities. To put it plainly, these are everyday items that don't require extra rules to be followed while being transported.

Electronic products like laptops, tablets, and phones may be considered exceptional goods. Several unique rules apply to these commodities in order to guarantee their safety and maintain their quality while being transported.

1.2 Special Cargo

One kind of commodities that must go through a little more involved shipping process is special cargo, which is carried by air. Particularly with products of unique kind, weight, size, and value. These commodities must adhere to strict guidelines for handling, packing, labeling, preparation paperwork, and transportation in order to guarantee efficiency and safety.

Special types of goods include:

• Live Animals - AVI Code: Any animal that is typically flown in a cargo plane. Large animals in particular need a comprehensive license. In this instance, passenger aircraft are able to carry animals.
• High-value goods - Code VAL: These are shipments that cost at least 100,000 VND each kilogram. Precious metals, cash, and other valuable goods are shipped with these shipments. The aforementioned goods are kept in secure storage under constant observation by airport security personnel. Safe transportation to and from cars and airplanes is another guarantee provided by this service.
• Diplomatic goods - DIP code:  These are frequently very significant shipments, including the moving of ministerial, consular, and embassy delegations. These shipments may be kept in storage in a designated area of the warehouse.
• Remains - HUM: Remains are moved under very tight guidelines for packaging and protocol. This is crucial since prerequisites can change based on the laws of the place you're visiting.
• Perishable goods - PER code: These commodities are frequently given preference when it comes to storage space because they are particularly well-suited for air travel. Particularly for items like fresh meat, fruits, vegetables, comparable products, and newspapers.
• Dangerous goods: Products that pose a risk are carried in the aircraft's belly. However, during transit, the handling of hazardous materials like explosives will be outright refused. Transportation of some items, such gasoline, sulfuric acid, arsenic, gun boxes (light weapon ammo), etc., will undoubtedly need to adhere to very stringent rules and regulations. Additionally, you can take the nature of the items into account to transport them in compliance with regulations:
  • Type 1: Explosives
  • Type 2: Gas
  • Type 3: Flammable liquid
  • Type 4: Flammable solid
  • Type 5: Oxidizing agents
  • Type 6: Toxic and infectious substances
  • Type 7: Radioactive substances
  • Type 8: Corrosive substances
  • Type 9: Other substances
• Wet cargo - Code WET: For example, when transporting eels they will be placed on a pallet first and covered with a wet blanket. 
• Goods with a strong odor - SMELL: Products with overpowering smells are categorized based on their attributes. Garlic, oil, French cheese, and other substances are a few examples.
• Heavy goods - BIG, HEA: You should take into account the risk that heavy items may stick to other pallets when moving them. Simultaneously, you ought to be mindful of the goods' weight restrictions per unit area.

The International Air Transport Association, or IATA, is in charge of three specialized bodies that make sure all safety and convenience criteria are followed worldwide:

• Dangerous Goods Agency - DGB
• Time and Temperature Processing Authority - TTWG
• Live Animals and Perishable Goods Agency - LABP

These organizations are in charge of offering guidelines and criteria to guarantee the safe and effective transportation of particular commodities.

>>>> CLICK FOR MORE INFO: Latest international air freight rates table

2. It is not permitted to convey goods by air

In addition to the above-mentioned categories of goods that can be delivered by air, some goods cannot be transported in this way. Dolphin Sea Air will provide you with the information and data listed below:

2.1 Sort things based on the degree of hazard

The nine tiers below are used to classify dangerous commodities, and they include:

• Level 1: Explosives
• Level 2: Gas
• Level 3: Flammable liquid
• Level 4: Flammable solids, including those that can cause powder explosions or flammable gases when in contact with water
• Level 5: Oxidizing agents and organic peroxides
• Level 6: Toxic and infectious substance
• Level 7: Radioactive material
• Level 8: Corrosive substance
• Level 9: Substances or materials that pose a general hazard, including those that are harmful to the environment.

This section aids in determining how harmful a given item is. The initial seven groups are chosen concurrently according to their shared degree of risk.

2.2 An overview of the items that cannot be transported

Businesses also need to be aware of the kinds of commodities that are prohibited from being transported on airplanes, in addition to the things that are categorized by degree of danger as previously discussed. By doing this, companies may steer clear of challenging issues that may arise during the import and export procedure. Below is a summary of the items that Dolphin Sea Air is unable to transfer for you:

• Leather from animals.

• Drinks containing alcohol.
• Weapons, ammunition and military equipment.
• Products from fur.
• Ivory and products made from ivory.
• Money and documents can be converted into money.
• Seeds.
• Magnets and magnetic materials.

3. The benefits and drawbacks of air cargo transportation

A significant portion of international trade involves the transportation of commodities by air. Below, Dolphin Sea Air will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of air cargo transportation:

3.1 Advantage

The following are benefits of types of air cargo:

• Transport time: Among the existing modes of transportation, the airplane has the quickest travel times. This guarantees that the goods are shipped out promptly. A passenger plane can travel between 800 and 1000 km/h on average, which is far faster than other forms of transportation. Because of this, no other method of transportation can match the times for air travel.

• Level of safety: Airplane transportation offers the highest level of safety. In addition, compared to other modes including road, rail, and sea, using an aircraft carries a substantially lower risk profile. As a result, it is guaranteed that nothing will be lost, damaged, or misplaced while being transported. This lessens the amount of money lost as a result of things breaking or small-time theft.
• Distance of transportation: Goods can be transported via air freight to distant destinations. because a variety of topographical and geographic obstacles can be overcome by this mode of transportation.
• Storage costs: Because of the nature of the commodities, storage costs are typically quite low. Concurrently, a thorough inspection procedure is conducted prior to the items' entry into the airport area. This guarantees prompt and effective processing.
• Insurance costs: Compared to other methods, air freight insurance costs are low since there is less risk involved.

>>>> SEE MORE: What is advantages and disadvantages of air transport?

3.2 Defect

Airborne cargo transportation has the following drawbacks:

• Cost: Compared to other methods, air freight is frequently more expensive.

• Volume restriction on products: Volume restrictions are frequently applied to commodities delivered by air. This might be a problem for bulky, hefty objects.
• Procedures: The business must take great care to prepare for the lengthy and laborious airport procedures and handling. To guarantee flight security and safety, a plethora of laws and regulations are in effect in the aviation industry. In addition, several different kinds of items are prohibited from being transported by law.
• External factors: The timetable and safety of cargo during air transportation can be impacted by variables like the weather, airport conditions, and security concerns.

4. When selecting products to be shipped by air, take note

You now know about the benefits and drawbacks of air freight delivery. Next, while selecting the kinds of cargo to be flown, Dolphin Sea Air will offer the following notes:

4.1 Freight with temperature control

• Create labels and paperwork for hazardous materials that need to be kept at a specific temperature: It's crucial to make sure all paperwork is properly reported and readable when shipping temperature-controlled items. You should utilize the consignor and consignee's contact details and phone numbers to promote openness. Furthermore, the suggested approach is to use three-character IATA standard handling codes.

  • Any medical certificates or paperwork included with the shipment must be explicitly stated in the bill of lading's "Handling Information" section. You could also elaborate on the information in the "Characteristics and quantity" section. It is important to remember that dry ice belongs in the dangerous goods category because it is employed as a refrigerant.

• Giving temperature-controlled cargo management information: A number of crucial details must be given before the airline may accept temperature- and time-controlled goods from the shipper. These details include:
  • Information regarding time and temperature control products
  • Sort of packaging
  • Routes and timetables for flights
  • Type of aircraft
  • surroundings
  • The necessary degree of temperature regulation at every step
  • Time of delivery estimate Phone number available 24/7
  • Conditions unique to each country

By giving this information, you can contribute to the seamless delivery of goods that require temperature control.

4.2 Perishable goods transportation

Keep the following in mind while shipping perishable items via air:

• Regulations governing the transportation of perishable commodities: When shipping perishable items by air, particular protocols must be followed, and the carrier is expected to abide by these protocols. This entails actions like labeling and tagging, figuring out prerequisites, and, most importantly, what the shipper and airline are responsible for. The requirements outlined in sections 1.2 and 1.3 of the IATA Perishable Goods Regulations (PCR) guidance must be followed by both organizations.

• Labeling and marking for perishable commodities in transit: Perishable items must be transported by air, and for this to happen, the shipping unit must guarantee that the process's requirements are met. The shipping unit must first make sure the air waybill form is precisely and completely filled out, including the justification for handling goods that are perishable.
  • Marking at the goods declaration stage must adhere to the requirements of the IATA cargo handling code. This guarantees that products are handled correctly. Appendix D of the IATA Perishable Goods Regulations Guide (PCR) contains cargo handling codes. Additional paperwork, including license numbers, must also be ready. Particularly in nations where product declaration is subject to certain regulations.
  • Additionally, it is crucial that products are labeled correctly. Labeling objects in accordance with IATA standards is part of this. Certain commodities are regarded as harmful, such as "perishable goods," "this is the top," "wet goods," and particularly for dry ice.
• Because perishable items decompose at varying rates, it is important to pack them carefully. Proper execution of packaging and handling procedures is vital to guarantee the safe arrival of goods. In addition, this method needs to adhere to food safety and hygiene regulations while maintaining the integrity of the products. Furthermore, packing must guarantee that goods cannot be stacked on top of one another or subjected to temperature fluctuations.

>>>> CONTINUE: What are the types of air freight containers? Classify packing size

4.3 Live animal transportation

Keep the following in mind when flying live animals:

• Live animal transportation regulations: 45 nations and territories have formally adopted IATA Live Animal Regulations. Every year, information on the implementation and enforcing of live animal transport laws is updated on this page. All live animals, with the exception of dogs, are required by law to be kept in dedicated containers.

• Labeling and marking for the handling of live animal transportation: Labeling and marking are always necessary and crucial. Print labels and attach them to the outside of the animal container. In addition to the language used by the shipping unit, English is also used as a second language.
• Taking care of live animal transportation: It is the person or shipping unit's responsibility to make sure the animal is healthy during transportation. Additionally, airlines are required to make sure that shippers follow rules, such as:
  • Comprehensive details regarding documents.
  • Design of containers.
  • Stickers and markers.
  • Details on the reservation and the route.

As per IATA LAR, the acceptance list must be completed in its entirety. Personnel executing this procedure must also adhere to IATA laws, receive thorough training, and keep up to date on any updates.

Instead of being put on the ULD, animals should be kept in a holding container that has been approved. To lessen vibrations, the container should always be face up. It is best to board animals as near to takeoff as feasible.

Workers are responsible for making sure that nothing falls into the animal's cage while it is being transported. If they are not sealed, live animals shouldn't be kept close to food or hazardous materials. If in doubt, stay away from setting other goods adjacent to the cage with the animal.

4.4 A few broad observations 

When shipping products by air, bear the following in mind:

• Verify that the goods are legitimate: they need to be fully documented and on the list of items that are permitted for air transportation.
• Get all required paperwork ready: Air transport necessitates adherence to origin restrictions, stamp requirements, and other relevant documentation.
• Be mindful of the goods' weight: To guarantee the safety of flights, weight restrictions apply to air cargo. Other modes of transportation should be taken into consideration if the weight restriction is exceeded.
• Carefully pack your goods: Proper packaging is required for items, such as putting food in wooden crates and using ice to preserve fresh goods. To reduce the chance of contamination, food items shouldn't be transported with hazardous materials.
• Verify the details: To make sure the goods are delivered to the right place, it is crucial to verify the consignee's precise information. This lessens the chance of lost or damaged returns.
• Customs fees: If inaccurate information about the items is provided during the customs process, there may be a charge for customs. Companies will incur expenses as a result of losses. In the meanwhile, the airline has sole responsibility for the data disclosed in the transportation agreement.
• Use a reliable shipping company: To guarantee a seamless shopping experience, use a reliable freight company. Businesses save time and may complete the process more quickly and properly with the support of the shipping service provider.

Observing these rules contributes to maintaining the quality and safety of cargo when it is being transported by air.

5. The procedure for flying cargo at Dolphin Sea Air

Dolphin Sea Air's types of air cargo transportation is as follows:

• Step 1: Take in client requests.

• Step 2: Verify and confirm the price, complete the reservation, and let the client know.
• Step 3: Booking - For imports, you must work with customers to finalize the shipment schedule.
• Step 4: Monitor the handling of shipments:
  • Dolphin facilitates the coordination of airport goods and airport goods procedures for exporting.
  • Dolphin facilitates the updating of clients, customs procedures, and delivery dates for imported goods.
• Step 5: Send customers' documents and update the shipping invoice.
• Step 6: Keep track of and inform clients of their order status.
• Step 7: Give customers their purchases.
  • Dolphin will immediately provide goods for export, and clients will pay as specified in the contract.
  • Dolphin gets notification of the arrival of imported products, fulfills delivery orders, and notifies clients of the goods' receipt.

Please provide Dolphin Sea Air with the following details if you would like to learn more about the particulars of air freight transportation:

Dolphin Sea Air Services Corporation

• Office contact:
  • Hanoi: 18th Floor, Epic Tower, 19 Duy Tan Street, Dich Vong Hau Ward, Cau Giay District
  • Hai Phong: 3rd Floor, No 274 Danang Street, Van My Ward, Ngo Quyen District, Haiphong City
  • Da Nang: 6th Floor, Truc Thang Mien Trung Building, Nguyen Van Linh Roadm Thac Gian Ward, Thanh Khe District, Danang City
  • Ho Chi Minh City: 6th Floor, Hai Au Building, 39B Truong Son Street, Ward 4, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Hotline: 1900986813
• Email: info@dolphinseair.com

You now know more about the types of air cargo that are transported by air thanks to this article. I sincerely hope you will select Dolphin Sea Air as your transportation provider. For additional information regarding Dolphin Sea Air services, please call 1900986813.

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