# Air Cargo Handling

*Last updated: 2026-06-16*

> A pallet of electronics arrives at the cargo terminal: it is accepted, documented, inspected for damage, moved to a conditioned storage area, and ultimately released for loading into the aircraft hold.

A pallet of electronics arrives at the cargo terminal: it is accepted, documented, inspected for damage, moved to a conditioned storage area, and ultimately released for loading into the aircraft hold. This entire sequence is air cargo handling. The term covers the full physical and administrative cycle from goods receipt at the cargo terminal through to release for departure or pickup. Ground handling companies, airlines, and freight forwarders are the principal actors, responsible for acceptance, document checks, storage, ULD (Unit Load Device) build-up, and security screening. Special handling rules issued by IATA and national aviation authorities apply to dangerous goods, pharmaceuticals, and perishables. Air cargo handling should not be confused with customs clearance: it is an operational ground service that runs concurrently with, but independently of, the customs process.

**Source:** [https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/](https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Air Cargo Handling |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 129 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-16 |
| Source | https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/ |

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