Recently, in one of our entries we discussed the topic of air transport on the example of the transport of refrigerators from the USA to Poland. It was a concrete example in which we focused on a factor complicating transport planning, i.e. the time difference. Under what other circumstances does international air transport work? What are its pros and cons?
International air transport is becoming more and more popular
The main advantage of this mode of transport, i.e. speed, undoubtedly contributes to this state of affairs. The use of an aircraft to transport goods from point A to point B properly guarantees that the recipient will enjoy the shipment shortly after its dispatch. However, it should be borne in mind that in the transport industry the term „soon” is understood somewhat more mildly than in the lives of ordinary people. In extreme cases, after including clearance, loading procedures, and in the case of general cargo, even waiting for appropriate cruises, such transport takes even around a week. Of course, in view of the month of waiting for a ship from China, the week is a moment, but it shows that this is not an instant procedure.
Small and light goods, which need to be transported over a long distance, are the most suitable for transporting goods this way. From here, loads such as:
- valuable goods
- perishable goods
- animals (sometimes even as passengers!)
- groceries
- temporary shipments
Due to differences in the capacity of means of transport, an air container is slightly less spacious than a sea container. This has limitations. Cruise planes take up to several tons of cargo not exceeding 160 cm in height. Transport aircraft in record cases can take up to 250 tons of cargo not exceeding 220 cm in height. This limitation affects another weight to volume converter. In air transport, 1 CBM = 167 kg.
What is difficult to transport by plane?
Strict air safety regulations mean restrictions on the release of certain goods for transport. Troublesome problems can be, for example, corrosive substances. Problems can also occur when attempting to transport flammable substances or devices with liquids (such as engines, batteries). To avoid complications, it is worth presenting MSDS – Material Safety Data Sheet before ordering the transport. By verifying this document, airlines can authorize the transport of dangerous goods. For the same safety reasons, an additional check occurs during mandatory transhipment. In order for cargo transport by air to be efficient, you need to know the specifics of the environment and be able to move amongst restrictive safety regulations.
Goods with the most difficulties in air transport are usually categorized as ADR or DGR. In addition to additional permits, the transport of such goods is often extended by procedures, controls and checks.
International air transport in the BBA Transport System
At BBA Transport System, we focus on experience and credibility. Thanks to this, our experts are always prepared to carry out orders and can contact the best forwarding agents in the world. We have access to the largest airports in terms of cargo in all countries of the world. We also have the option of combining many goods into one package. We carry out both premium shipments (2-3 calendar days) and economic shipments (up to 10 calendar days). We work with our clients in the field of logistics consulting and ensure trouble-free implementation of the DOOR TO DOOR service. All our activities comply with IATA standards – an organization of which we have been a member since last year.