GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026
Air Cargo Handling
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.
Quick Answer
Last updated: Published:
Source: https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/
Category
Incoterms 2020 Simulator: Who bears costs & risk?
Reading time
1 min
Words
129
Mentioned in
–
Definition & Explanation
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.
Next steps
Matching tools and partners
Related Terms
You might also be interested in these terms
⚖️ ICC Incoterms 2020
Incoterms 2020 Simulator: Who bears costs & risk?
Analyze all 11 Incoterms 2020: cost matrix, risk timeline, insurance gap detector and customs responsibility – free, no login required.
Connect
Find a matching partner on this lane
Verified forwarders, ranked by coverage and profile — premium capped at 10%.
Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox
Free · No password · Never a paywall. Weekly top news and facts from logistics.
Community Questions & Answers
Share your knowledge, ask follow-up questions, or add practical insights to this page. Every contribution is moderated before publication.
No community answers yet. Be the first.