GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026
Air Cargo
Airlines and freight forwarders use air cargo to transport goods where speed or value density justifies a higher freight rate per kilogram than surface or ocean modes.
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Source: https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/
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Definition & Explanation
Airlines and freight forwarders use air cargo to transport goods where speed or value density justifies a higher freight rate per kilogram than surface or ocean modes. The logistics chain covers pickup at the shipper's premises, IATA-compliant packaging and labelling, booking through a cargo agent or directly with the airline, customs clearance at origin and destination airports, and final delivery to the consignee. Typical commodities include pharmaceuticals, perishables, electronics, high-value apparel, and time-critical spare parts. Intercontinental transit times generally range from one to three days—far shorter than ocean freight, though at a significantly higher cost. Hazardous goods in air cargo are governed by the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (IATA DGR), which set stricter classification and packaging requirements than those applying to road or rail transport.
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Transit index
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