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Category: Air Freight

09 Sep 2024
Advantages of Air Freight

What Are the Key Advantages and Disadvantages of Air Freight?

Air freight has revolutionized global transport, becoming the go-to for lightning-fast and dependable delivery. Whether you’re a business aiming to meet tight deadlines or an individual needing urgent shipments, air freight is your high-speed solution. But before you decide, it’s essential to consider its pros and cons carefully. 

This blog explores its various types, key benefits,  and challenges. It also explains why Nissin Belgium is a standout leader in providing top-notch air freight solutions. 

What is Air Freight (AF)? 

Air freight, or air cargo, transports goods by air using commercial aircraft. It’s a popular choice for individuals and businesses that need to move goods quickly and efficiently across long distances. AF is often used for high-value, low-weight goods such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and perishable goods. 

What are the Types of Air Freight (AF)? 

AF services can be categorized into two main types: 

General Cargo

This includes goods that do not require special handling and are not perishable, hazardous, or valuable. General cargo often comprises consumer goods, machinery, and other standard items.

Special Cargo

Special cargo requires specific handling, including perishable items, pharmaceuticals, high-value products, etc. These shipments often need temperature control, special packaging, or other unique handling procedures.

Advantages of Air Freight Shipping 

Speed:  AF is the fastest mode of transportation, making it the best choice for time-sensitive shipments. Whether express air freight or standard air cargo, goods can be delivered within hours, significantly reducing lead times and improving supply chain efficiency.

Global Reach: Air freight logistics enable companies to ship goods to almost any international location. Leading AF companies like Nissin Belgium maintain extensive global networks, providing transportation across continents.

Security: Strict regulations and security measures significantly reduce the risk of theft or damage, making it a reliable option for high-value shipments.

Reliability: Known for its reliability, AF services adhere to strict schedules, with fewer delays or cancellations than other transport modes. This ensures timely deliveries, which is crucial for businesses relying on just-in-time inventory systems.

Disadvantages of Air Freight (AF) Shipping 

Cost: The primary disadvantage of AF transport is the cost. It’s significantly more expensive than other modes of transportation, such as sea or land freight. The high price is due to the speed and security offered.

Limited Capacity: Services have limited capacity compared to other transport methods. It has strict weight and size limitations, so large or heavy shipments may not be feasible or incur additional costs.

Environmental Impact: Air freight has a higher ecological impact than other shipping methods. The carbon footprint of air transportation is significantly higher, making it a less sustainable option for businesses focused on reducing their environmental impact.

Weather Dependence: Adverse weather conditions can affect AF logistics. Severe weather can cause flight delays or cancellations, potentially disrupting the supply chain and causing delivery delays.

Air Freight Process: From Booking to Final Delivery

The air freight involves a series of well-coordinated steps to transport goods swiftly and securely.  Likewise, understanding each stage helps manage expectations for smooth operations from pickup to final delivery. Here’s a breakdown:

Booking and Planning

The first step in air freight involves booking the shipment with an AF forwarder. This entity handles all the necessary documentation and logistics to ensure a smooth transportation process.

Pickup and Transportation

Once the booking is confirmed, the goods are collected from the shipper’s location and transported to the airport.

Customs Clearance

The shipment must undergo customs clearance before boarding the aircraft. This process verifies that all required documentation is in place and that the goods comply with the regulations of both the origin and destination countries.

Loading and Transport

After customs clearance, the goods are loaded onto the aircraft for transportation. The AF forwarder ensures that the shipment is handled carefully, adhering to specific requirements or instructions.

Arrival and Customs Clearance at Destination

Upon arrival at the destination airport, the shipment must again pass through customs clearance. This confirms that the goods have been imported lawfully and that applicable duties or taxes have been paid.

Final Delivery

Once the goods have cleared customs, they are transported to their final destination, completing the air freight process.

We Can Help

Nissin Belgium provides reliable and prompt AF services to address your shipping needs. With our extensive global network, we deliver timely solutions and expertly manage various cargo types.

Whether you need express shipping or assistance with complex logistics, Nissin offers smooth operations for your business. Take action now to benefit from Nissin Belgium’s thorough air freight services.

Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your shipping requirements and contribute to your business’s success.

23 Aug 2024
Ocean Freight Forwarders

Ocean Freight Forwarder vs. Air Freight Forwarder – What to Choose?

How do you choose between ocean freight forwarders and air freight forwarders for your business?

With global logistics constantly evolving, choosing between ocean and air freight can significantly impact your bottom line.

Likewise, this blog will illuminate the key differences between these two major shipping methods and help you understand which meets your specific needs.

How Different is Ocean Freight from Air Freight?

Ocean freight and air freight represent two major international shipping methods, each with unique advantages and drawbacks. Knowing their differences can help you select the most suitable method for your specific needs.

Comparison Table:

Aspect Ocean Freight Air Freight
1. Capacity High (suitable for large volumes) Lower (ideal for smaller, high-value items)
2. Cost Generally lower Generally higher
3. Frequency of Service Less frequent, scheduled sailings More frequent, daily or weekly flights
4. Cargo Type Suitable for a wide range of cargo, including heavy and bulky items Ideal for lightweight, high-value, or time-sensitive cargo
5. Environmental Impact Lower per unit of cargo Higher per unit of cargo
6. Transit Time Longer (weeks to months) Shorter (days to a week)
7. Security Moderate, with varying levels of security High, with stringent security measures

Ocean Freight Forwarders: Strengths and Benefits

 Ocean freight forwarders are advantageous for large shipments because of their cost efficiency. They are ideal for transporting bulky and heavy items, from industrial machinery to raw materials. Additionally, ocean freight is more eco-friendly per cargo unit, which benefits businesses focused on reducing their carbon footprint.

Air Freight Forwarders: Strengths and Benefits

Air freight forwarders excel in delivering time-sensitive and high-value shipments quickly. They provide rapid transit times, often within a few days, and offer superior security with strict monitoring protocols. The reliability of frequent flights ensures that businesses can maintain smooth operations and meet tight deadlines.

How Do I Choose a Good Freight Forwarder?

When choosing a freight forwarder, it’s crucial to evaluate several factors to ensure they meet your specific shipping needs. Here are key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Industry Expertise: Look for a forwarder with experience in your industry who can handle your cargo efficiently.

Reputation and Reliability: Check their track record for timely deliveries and overall service quality.

Carrier Network: Make sure they have a strong network of carriers for better shipping options.

Customer Service: Evaluate their support and communication to handle any issues effectively.

Transparency of Charges: Review their pricing structure and compare estimated charges per kilo to ensure good value.

Client Testimonials: Read reviews or testimonials to gauge past customer satisfaction and service quality.

Additional Considerations for Ocean Freight Forwarders

One key advantage of ocean freight is its flexibility in handling various types of cargo. Moreover, ocean freight can more readily accommodate oversized and heavy goods. This flexibility allows businesses to transport a wider range of products, making ocean freight a versatile option for diverse shipping needs.

Choose the Right Ocean Freight Forwarders with Nissin Belgium

Choosing between ocean and air freight forwarders depends on your shipment’s size, urgency, and budget. Nissin Belgium stands out by offering exceptional services in both areas.

To ensure you make the best choice, contact Nissin Belgium at +32 2 751 44 99 or email HowCanIHelpYou@be.nissin-eu.com with your requirements.

18 Apr 2024
Air Freight Forwarder shipping goods via air transport

Perishable Goods in Air Freight: Best Practices for Shipping Temperature-Sensitive Cargo

The world economy continues to expand, and so does the soaring consumer demand for fresh produce, life-saving pharmaceuticals, exotic flowers, or other time- and temperature-sensitive products. However, delivering these goods across vast distances presents a unique logistical challenge. Air freight Forwarders offer a quick and reliable solution to ensuring such goods arrive pristine.

With its unmatched speed, precise temperature control, and strong global network, this type of transport offers an added advantage over traditional ground and sea transportation. However, navigating the intricacies of air cargo for perishable goods requires understanding the unique challenges and best practices involved.

This blog will explore the key considerations and steps to ensure the safe and organized transport of your temperature-sensitive cargo via air freight forwarders.

Why is air transport the best for transporting perishable goods?

Air freight offers several advantages for shipping perishable goods:

Speed: Compared to ground and sea transportation, air freight is the fastest shipping mode, ensuring quick delivery and minimizing time in transit.

Temperature Control: The controlled environment of aircraft cabins allows for precise temperature management, ensuring your temperature-sensitive cargo maintains optimal conditions throughout the journey.

Reliability: Its extensive global network and frequent flight schedules provide flexibility and accessibility, allowing businesses to quickly and efficiently deliver their perishable goods to customers worldwide.

Best Practices for Packaging Perishable Goods

Proper packaging is essential for protecting perishable goods during air cargo transportation. Consider the following:

Opt for insulated containers and temperature-controlled packaging materials.

Use gel packs or dry ice to maintain the required temperature if necessary.

Consider the specific needs of different perishable goods, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and live plants.

Temperature Monitoring and Control

Real-time Tracking: Utilize data loggers or GPS trackers to monitor temperature fluctuations during transit.

Active Temperature Control: Consider actively controlled containers that maintain a consistent temperature through refrigeration or heating units for longer journeys.

Regulatory Requirements and Documentation

Air Cargo Compliance: Ensure all documentation follows Air Cargo Compliance (ACC) regulations, including commodity descriptions, temperature specifications, and special handling instructions.

Phytosanitary Certificates: Phytosanitary certificates issued by the National Plant Protection Organization are often required for plant and animal products.

Handling and Logistics Considerations

Coordination is Key: Seamless communication between shippers, airlines, customs authorities, and logistics providers ensures efficient handling and minimal delays.

Specialized Airport Handling: Airports with dedicated cool storage facilities and trained personnel for perishable cargo are ideal.

Choose Your Reliable Global Air Freight Forwarder

Shipping perishable goods via air freight forwarder requires careful planning, execution, and adherence to best practices. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safe and efficient transport of your perishable goods.

At Nissin Belgium, we are committed to providing expert temperature-controlled air freight logistics services for perishable goods. Our team of experts can help you streamline the entire process and ensure seamless coordination for your needs.

Contact us at + 32 2 751 44 99 or write HowCanIHelpYou@be.nissin-eu.com to learn more about our logistics solutions.

11 Jan 2024
Luggage being loaded onto a large airplane with Determining Air Freight Rates

8 Factors Determining Air Freight Rates and Charges

Air shipping offers a fast and reliable way to transport goods globally. However, the costs associated with air cargo can differ significantly depending on several key factors. As a shipper looking to move products by air, it’s important to understand what determines Costs for air freight rates and charges. Nissin Belgium allows you to estimate better and control your shipping budget.

This post will explore the top 8 factors influencing air freight logistics pricing. Reaching out to a knowledgeable provider like Nissin Belgium can also help provide valuable insight into current market rates.

Weight and Dimensions

A key determinant is the actual weight and dimensions of your shipment. Bulky or heavy cargo will cost more to transport by air. Air logistics carriers need to optimize limited cargo capacity. Density ratios are used to take into account both weight and dimensions.

Transportation Route

Longer transport distances mean higher fuel costs for the airline. Popular routes with high competition may be cheaper. Less common lanes can be more expensive. The origin and destination airports also impact costs. Busy international hubs charge higher fees.

Perishability

Temperature-sensitive goods like fresh produce or pharmaceuticals require special handling, which comes at a premium. Refrigeration and monitoring equipment is needed for cold chain shipments. Time-critical deliveries also cost more to expedite.

Seasonality

Air freight rates fluctuate based on supply and demand. Peak holiday shipping seasons drive up pricing as more companies compete for space. Low-volume months offer better deals. Weather disruptions can also constrain capacity at certain times of the year.

Commodity Type

Some products incur higher security and handling fees. Dangerous goods require certified packaging and loading procedures. Oversized cargo may need special equipment and handling that increases cost. High-value electronics and other attractive targets face higher risk rates, too.

Shipment Mode

Exclusive use of an entire aircraft is the fastest option but comes at a premium. Consolidating with other freight on commercial passenger planes offers a more economical alternative. Chartering part of an aircraft can be a middle-ground based on volume needs.

Fuel Prices

Since fuel accounts for up to 40% of airline operating costs, the fluctuating price of jet fuel heavily impacts air shipping rates. Airlines adjust their rates frequently based on global oil and gas markets. Fuel surcharges may be added if prices spike.

Customs Processing

Shipments that cross international borders can incur fees for customs inspections, duties, taxes, and more. Brokerage costs are also incurred when clearing customs at destination airports. Simplified customs protocols can reduce these costs.

Let Nissin Belgium Be Your Air Freight Navigator

Understanding these key factors gives you greater insight into the components that determine pricing for air freight. A logistics partner like Nissin Belgium has the expertise to help optimize your shipments by consolidating loads, using efficient routing, meeting deadlines, navigating customs, and more. Our seamless air shipping services ensure your cargo arrives safely and cost-effectively.

Contact us today at + 32 2 751 44 99 or HowCanIHelpYou@be.nissin-eu.com to get a competitive quote tailored to your air freight needs.

21 Dec 2023
A large airplane on the tarmac, used for air shipping or air freight

Exploring the Role of Air Shipping in Global Trade

As global trade volumes continue to climb yearly, meeting the world’s demand for goods requires moving cargo faster and more efficiently than ever before. Air shipping has become essential for businesses participating in global supply chains. With journeys measured in hours and days instead of weeks, air freight provides unmatched speed and accessibility even to remote corners of the world.

Air cargo offers the speed and accessibility that enables the modern, interconnected world. As an experienced freight forwarder, Nissin Belgium understands the immense value air transportation offers in today’s competitive landscape. But what exactly makes air freight the best of speed and reach?

Advantages of Air Shipping

Speed: The Time Factor

Air freight achieves by far the fastest transit times of any cargo mode, reducing delivery schedules by over 90% compared to ocean shipping. For time-sensitive shipments, only air transport can meet the tight deadlines that today’s data-driven, just-in-time supply chains require.

Accessibility: Reaching New Markets

The sheer reach of intercontinental flights empowers businesses to access previously untapped markets and opportunities abroad. Air shipping links factories directly to customers globally, enabling on-demand delivery unachievable via sea or ground routes.

Cargo Integrity: Ensuring Quality & Compliance

Maintaining exact temperatures or environmental conditions is non-negotiable for goods like pharmaceuticals, electronics, and perishable foods. The speed of air freight minimizes risks, while state-of-the-art cargo monitoring and protective handling capabilities add further assurance of integrity from ramp to ramp.

Inventory & Logistics: Streamlining Operations

With air shipping’s combination of velocity and reliability, companies can adopt leaner supply chain strategies rather than stockpiling months of inventory. The precise delivery windows also increase production flexibility and heighten responsiveness to surges in customer demand.

Considerations for Choosing Air Shipping

Although air freight comes with a higher price tag than its ocean and land counterparts, for the right products going to the right markets, those higher transportation costs pay for themselves many times over. Businesses must weigh key considerations when determining if air shipping makes sense for a given product or sales channel:

Cost: Priority Products Justify Priority Shipping

While air freight costs more than ocean or ground movements, it generates far more sales per year from high-priority, high-margin, or perishable items. Strategic use of air shipping multiplies inventory turns.

Size & Weight: Optimizing Air Cargo Efficiency

Dimensional and weight restrictions vary across aircraft types, so optimization is key. Nissin Belgium’s freight experts are finely attuned to the capacities of all major air carriers and routes to configure shipments for efficiency.

Infrastructure: Accessing Global Gateways

An interconnected network of cargo airports and flights provides businesses with a broad reach, but some destinations lack robust air logistics facilities. Nissin Belgium helps shippers navigate these complexities.

Regulations: Navigating Security & Customs

Given the international nature of most air cargo, businesses must comply with layered customs, security, and handling regulations. As compliance experts, Nissin Belgium helps customers clear these hurdles quickly and accurately.

Choose the Best

At present, air shipping isn’t just an option; it’s a strategic imperative. Whether you’re an established multinational or a budding entrepreneur, Nissin Belgium can help you unlock the potential of air freight and propel your business to new heights.

Contact us on + 32 2 751 44 99 or write to us at HowCanIHelpYou@be.nissin-eu.com for a personalized air freight consultation or quote, and experience the unparalleled service and expertise that sets us apart. Let us be your trusted partner in navigating the skies and exceeding your expectations every step of the way.

28 Aug 2023
Future-Trends-in-Air-Shipping

Future Trends in Air Shipping: Technology and Sustainability

Air shipping is evolving at a quick pace, driven by technological advancements and a growing emphasis on sustainability. As global trade continues to expand, the air freight industry plays a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient movement of goods across borders. Taking the lead in this transformative landscape is Nissin Belgium, a firm believer in driving innovation and progress in the industry.

In this blog, we will explore the future trends in air shipping, focusing on the linking concepts of technology and sustainability.

How Does Air Shipping Work?

Air shipping, also known as air freight, is the process of transporting cargo using aircraft. This method is favored for its speed, reliability, and ability to connect distant locations worldwide. Here’s a brief overview of the process:

Packaging

Freight Forwarding

Airline Booking

Customs Clearance

Air Transport

Destination Handling

Technological Advancements in Air Shipping

Digitalization and Automation: The seamless integration of digital technologies like IoT sensors and Radio-frequency Identification (RFID) tags has revolutionized cargo monitoring. Real-time data collection ensures optimal temperature control and heightened security. Additionally, automation has streamlined numerous processes, substantially reducing errors and boosting overall efficiency.

Drone Deliveries: The skies are abuzz with the promise of drone deliveries, particularly for last-mile distribution. Drones offer a swift, environmentally friendly solution for transporting smaller packages, especially to remote or challenging-to-access areas.

Blockchain’s Transparent Trail: The adoption of blockchain technology in the air freight industry introduces a new era of transparency and traceability. By creating an immutable ledger of transactions, blockchain curbs fraud and guarantees the authenticity of crucial documents.

Predictive Analytics: Advanced data analytics are driving the industry forward with predictive maintenance strategies. This data-driven approach optimizes aircraft performance, mitigates downtime, and ensures timely deliveries.

Navigating Towards Sustainable Skies

Alternative Fuels: A significant stride towards sustainability involves the exploration of alternative fuels such as biofuels and hydrogen. These eco-friendly options hold the potential to substantially reduce the carbon footprint associated with air shipping.

Innovative Aircraft Design: Aircraft manufacturers are embracing sustainability through the design of fuel-efficient planes. These marvels of engineering boast improved aerodynamics and employ lightweight materials to enhance fuel efficiency and minimize emissions per unit of cargo.

Carbon Offsetting Initiatives: Airlines and shippers are taking responsibility for their emissions by investing in carbon offset projects. These projects actively counterbalance carbon emissions by supporting endeavors that capture or reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Efficient Route Planning: The adoption of advanced route optimization algorithms is playing a pivotal role in curbing fuel consumption. These algorithms meticulously calculate and select optimal flight paths, resulting in reduced energy consumption.

Explore the Future with Nissin Belgium

As we look into the future of air shipping, it’s evident that technology and sustainability will lead the way. The industry’s dynamic nature, coupled with these transformative trends, promises a future where air shipping is not only efficient but also environmentally conscious. The journey towards a sustainable and more innovative air freight industry is well underway, and each step taken brings us closer to a world where global trade thrives harmoniously with the planet.

With a commitment to cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, Nissin Belgium is your partner in navigating the evolving landscape of air freight. Explore our innovative solutions and be part of the revolution in air shipping!