Air Freight 101

Being one of the leading freights forwarders in Dubai, we regularly meet clients who do not fully understand the concept of air freight forwarding in UAE as they are entirely new to this process. The advantages, prohibited items, when, and for whom is it required; are some of the many questions we usually encounter. Therefore, we have taken it upon ourselves to provide a short yet informative 101 answering the frequently asked question about air freight forwarding in UAE. 

Air Freight

Air Freight, or Air Cargo, in simple terms, is the process of carrying goods by plane. These services are usually opted by owners when they have limited time and require quick delivery.

A. Advantages of Air Freight services

1. Global Reach

One of the primary benefits of using air freight services is its global reach. When compared to sea and land cargo, air freight is not limited by boundaries. As many airlines have over 200 to 300 networks of destinations, no country is impossible for you to reach. 

2. Reliable & Secure

As airlines follow a timely schedule, your goods are guaranteed to depart and arrive on time. In comparison, land and ship cargo have varying delivery dates and times. For instance, while sea route shipping, there are chances of late delivery due to the shortage of space, machinery, workforce, and storage in the port, thereby extending the process. 
Additionally, when goods are transported via air cargo, there are limited stops in the journey. Therefore, the products are protected from damage and mishandling. Moreover, since airports undertake strict policies on safety and security, your products will be safe from theft. 

3. Speed

Speedy delivery is one of the key features of air freight services. If you need the products to be delivered quickly, air cargo is the best solution. Sea and land freight will always be significantly slower when compared to air travel. The same destination that takes one to three by air cargo might take up to thirty days when traveling by sea.

4. Tracking Facility

When using air cargo, you remain continuously updated on the journey. Tracking the shipment is made easy through consistent updates by airlines. Moreover, freight forwarders also provide web applications that help you track the process. 

B. Industries that use air freight services

1. Automotive
2. Electronics
3. Luxury items
4. Pharmaceuticals

C. Restricted items for air freight in the UAE.

1. Narcotic drugs
2. Nylon fishing nets
3. E-cigarettes and electronic hookahs
4. Live swine
5. Gambling tools & machineries
6. Cooked & homemade foods
7. Items that contradict Islamic faith and public morals  
8. Paans and betel leaves
9. Radiation and nuclear fallout contaminated substances
10. Used, reconditioned, and inlaid tires
11. Fake currency

These are some of the key benefits and points to keep in mind while using air freight forwarding in UAE.