In today’s fast-paced global market, understanding the primary benefit of shipping goods by air is essential for businesses aiming to stay competitive. One of the most effective methods for transporting goods is air transportation.
In this article, we will explore the advantages of air cargo transportation, and rank the top 10 advantages of air transport. We will also address some potential drawbacks, providing a balanced view of this shipping method. By examining these factors, your business can better understand how to leverage air freight to enhance your operations and maintain a competitive edge.
The primary benefits of shipping goods by air
When it comes to shipping goods efficiently and swiftly, air freight is one of the most attractive options available. With a range of advantages over other transportation methods, companies can leverage the unique characteristics of air transport to optimize their supply chains. We rank the top 10 advantages of air transport below – highlighting how air freight can provide a significant competitive edge in today’s market.
Primary benefits of shipping goods by air: Top 10 advantages of air transportation
1. Fastest shipping option
When you need to move goods quickly, air freight is the best choice compared to sea, rail, or road freight. The primary benefit of shipping goods by air is the speed at which cargo can be transported.
2. Reliable schedules
Airlines are very punctual, making flight times dependable. Even if a flight is missed, frequent departures minimize delays, making it one of the biggest advantages of air transportation.
3. Global reach
Airlines have extensive networks, so you can ship cargo to almost any destination worldwide. Bertling has a broad international network. Contact us if you want to know whether we ship to your destination or read our guide on international shipping.
4. Lower insurance costs
Since air transport is faster compared to other shipping methods, the insurance premiums are lower. Despite the higher shipping costs, the lower insurance costs help balance it out.
Read more about how you calculate shipping costs.
5. High security
Airports enforce strict security measures. As a result, the risk of theft or damage during transport is greatly reduced.
6. Less need for warehousing
Faster transit times mean less need for storage and smaller inventories. Most cargo cleared within hours when shipping by air. Making this one of the biggest advantages of air transportation.
7. Reduced packaging
Air shipments often require lighter packaging compared to ocean shipping. This saves you both time and costs on packing materials.
8. Track and trace
Most logistic companies offer web-based tracking, allowing you to monitor your shipment from start to finish. When shipping with Bertling you can follow your shipping in real time. Read more about our tracking and tracing-system.
9. Speedy customs clearance
Airports are equipped with efficient customs facilities, ensuring faster clearance and minimal delays.
10. Ideal for long distances
Air freight significantly reduces transit times for long-distance shipping, which is vital for perishable or time-sensitive products.
What are three major benefits of shipping products via air? — We highlight the top three
Air freight is becoming a popular choice for businesses looking to ship products quickly and efficiently. Below are three major benefits of shipping products via air, based on the previously outlined 10 advantages of air transportation. We will now delve deeper into the three major benefits.
1. The fastest shipping method
Air freight is the fastest way to transport goods, making it the primary benefit of shipping goods by air. When you need products delivered urgently, air shipping outpaces sea and road transport by a wide margin. This is especially important for perishable goods, medical supplies, or items in high demand. With air freight, you can expect your cargo to arrive within days, helping you meet customer needs quickly.
2. Reliable schedules
As you already know, flights operate on strict schedules. This means your shipments are likely to arrive and depart on time. This reliability reduces uncertainty and helps your business plan better. Even if a flight is missed, frequent departures mean there are usually alternative flights available shortly after, ensuring minimal delays.
3. Global reach
Global reach opens new market opportunities, enabling businesses to expand their customer base and reach international clients with ease. With established logistics infrastructure, shipping internationally becomes simpler and more efficient.
The primary benefit of shipping goods by air is: How air freight can help your business stay competitive
Air freight can greatly boost your business's competitiveness in several ways. As previously mentioned, it ensures rapid delivery, allowing you to respond quickly to market demands and enhance customer satisfaction. Additionally, air freight provides access to global markets, increasing sales opportunities and diversifying your customer base. With other words, air cargo transportation comes with a lot of advantages for your business.
The quicker transit times also enable lower inventory levels, reducing storage costs and minimizing stock obsolescence. Air freight is known for its reliability, ensuring timely shipments that help you meet customer commitments consistently.
Moreover, it’s ideal for high-value or time-sensitive products, such as electronics or medical supplies, allowing you to offer premium items with swift delivery. By incorporating air freight into your logistics strategy, you can improve efficiency, expand your reach, and stay ahead of competitors in a fast-paced market.
Advantages and disadvantages: The drawbacks of air transportation
While air transport offers numerous advantages, it is essential to acknowledge its disadvantages. Understanding these limitations can help your business make informed decisions about your shipping strategies. We list the disadvantages of air transportation below.
1. Higher cost
One of the significant drawbacks of air transport is its higher cost compared to other shipping methods. Air freight charges are generally higher due to factors like fuel costs, infrastructure investments, and handling fees. Your business should therefore evaluate a cost-benefit analysis of air transport based on your specific needs and budget.
Remember! The insurance premiums for air freight are lower, which helps narrow the economic gap compared to other shipping methods.
2. Limited capacity
Airplanes have limited cargo space compared to ships or trains. This limited capacity can pose challenges for businesses dealing with bulky or oversized shipments.
Are you managing large-scale cargo movements? Read: “What is OOG?”
3. Restrictions on hazardous goods
Air transport has strict regulations regarding the transportation of hazardous goods. Certain hazardous materials or substances may be prohibited from being transported by air due to safety concerns. If your business is dealing with such goods you need to comply with stringent regulations and find alternative transportation methods if necessary.
Unsure which transport solution best fits your needs? Read: “Which transport solution should you choose”.
The primary benefit of shipping goods by air is: Shipping with Bertling
The primary benefit of shipping goods by air with Bertling is the unparalleled speed and efficiency we offer. Our extensive global network and expertise in air freight logistics enable us to provide timely delivery and reliable service. We ensure your cargo reaches its destination without unnecessary delays.
By choosing Bertling, you not only gain access to swift transportation but also the peace of mind that comes with knowing your goods are in capable hands. Whether you're responding to urgent market demands or looking to expand your global reach, we are committed to helping your business thrive through our air freight solutions.
Read more about our air freight logistics, or contact us to get more information.
