How to choose the right air freight carrier for your shipment
Choosing the right air freight carrier for your shipment is a critical part of budgeting and managing your costs. The most important factor in selecting your air freight carrier is cost. You need to know the freight class of your shipment to accurately calculate the cost. Freight class is a standardized rating system used by the transportation industry to determine the amount of liability for loss, damage, or delays based on the density, stability, handling, and liability of the shipment.
Once you have determined your freight class, you can begin to research air freight carriers. It is important to compare the rates and services of different carriers. Also, make sure to read reviews to get an understanding of the carrier’s service levels. Consider factors such as delivery time, tracking capabilities, insurance coverage, invoicing, and payment terms.
When selecting your air freight carrier, it is also important to consider the relationship you will have with the carrier. Make sure you have a direct contact person who can answer questions and address any concerns you may have. Additionally, find out if the carrier has any special promotions you may be able to take advantage of.
Finally, it is important to keep your budget in mind
How to negotiate air freight rates with carriers
Negotiating air freight rates with carriers can be a great way to reduce costs for your business. Here are a few tips to help you get the lowest possible rate:
- Shop around – compare quotes from multiple carriers and don’t be afraid to leverage your buying power by asking for a better rate.
- Determine the right freight class – the freight class of your goods can have a significant impact on the cost of your shipment. The correct freight class can help you reduce costs by ensuring you’re paying the right price for the right type of goods.
- Understand the cost factors – air freight rates are based on a variety of factors like the size, weight, and value of your goods, the distance the goods are traveling, the type of cargo, and any special handling requirements. Knowing all of these factors can help you negotiate a better rate.
- Consider package consolidation – combining multiple shipments into a single package can help you reduce costs by reducing your total weight and size.
- Take advantage of incentive programs – some carriers may offer discounted rates for frequent shippers, or for shippers who meet certain criteria
How to calculate air freight cost for oversized shipments
When it comes to oversized air freight shipments, calculating the cost is more involved than with standard-sized shipments. First, you’ll need to determine the freight class. This is a number ranging from 50 to 500 that is determined by the weight, size, density, value, and liability of your shipment. The higher the freight class, the more the shipment costs.
After the freight class is determined, you can estimate the cost of your oversized shipment by multiplying the freight class by the weight of the cargo. This will give you an estimate of the air freight cost for the shipment. You should also factor in additional fees such as fuel surcharges and accessorial charges, which can vary from shipment to shipment.
It’s important to note that the final cost of your shipment may be different from the initial estimate. This is due to the dynamic nature of the air freight industry, as prices can change quickly due to a variety of factors.
To ensure that you get the most accurate estimate for your oversized shipment, it’s best to contact an air freight expert to help you calculate the cost. They will be able to provide more information on the freight class, as well as any additional fees that may apply
