Freighter Capacity

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Last updated: 13 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/freight-capacity.asp

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Definition & Explanation

Freighter capacity is the maximum payload – cargo weight and volume – that a dedicated cargo aircraft can transport on a single flight. It is determined by the aircraft's maximum structural payload (typically 90–140 metric tons for large widebody freighters such as Boeing 747F or Airbus A330F), available cargo volume, and regulatory constraints (weight distribution, center-of-gravity limits, hazmat restrictions). The practically usable capacity often depends on the cargo mix: if cargo is dense (heavy but compact), weight limits are reached first; if it is light and voluminous, cubic space becomes the constraint. Freight forwarders must account for both dimensions when planning shipments.

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DHL Strengthens Express Air Freight Between China and Europe

DHL is expanding its gateway in Shenzhen and launching a daily freighter rotation from Shanghai. This creates more capacity for heavy and time-critical shipments.

Aug 20, 202657521 min

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Related Terms

Freighter rotation

Air cargo container

Air Cargo Container

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Air Cargo Revenue Management

Air Freight Rate

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DHL Strengthens Express Air Freight Between China and Europe

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