Air Freight: Key Advantages and When It’s the Right Choice

When time is critical, you’re often willing to pay extra to get your goods from A to B as fast as possible. That’s where air transportation shines.

Speed, speed, speed. That’s the essence of air freight.

Key insights into air freight

At Berkman Forwarding, when we talk about air transportation, we’re specifically referring to freight. And that covers a wide variety of goods: anything from excess baggage, to fashion show clothing on a deadline, to high-tech electronics. Even products distributed globally from the Netherlands often rely on planes.

Air freight essentially means unaccompanied cargo transported between two airports. Pricing is different from sea or rail transport. Rates are calculated per kilogram, and airlines use a volume-to-weight ratio. So, yes, shipping a few crates of ping pong balls could end up more expensive than you’d expect!

On the plus side, air freight also comes with built-in safety measures. All cargo must pass through customs clearance, with strict rules on what can and can’t be transported. Security protocols at airports have become extremely rigorous over the last two decades, covering not only passengers but also freight.

And because many air shipments involve high-value or time-sensitive goods, packaging standards are very high, A-grade materials, special pallets, and meticulous handling.

What are the benefits of transportation by plane?

The key advantages of air freight revolve around three things:

1. Speed
Air transport is by far the fastest option. A shipment that might take 30–45 days by sea can be delivered in just 2–3 days by plane.

2. Reliability
Freight flights generally stick to tight schedules. Delays are rare, and departure and arrival times are precise, making planning much easier.

3. Safety
From strict customs controls to robust packaging requirements, air freight is one of the most secure ways to move goods.

Drawbacks of air freight?

Of course, it’s not all blue skies. Some challenges include:

Cost
You’re paying for speed, safety, and precision. Pricing per kilogram—plus volume conversions—makes air freight the most expensive transport option.

Airline Dependency
Schedules and space availability depend on the airlines. While reliable, external factors (like demand surges or capacity limits) can introduce unpredictability.

When Should You Choose Air Freight?

Air freight makes the most sense when:

• Speed is non-negotiable. If your goods need to be at their destination in days, not weeks.

• Safety is critical. If your shipment is high-value, fragile, or simply too important to risk.

Need Help With Air Freight?

Choosing air freight involves many moving parts, and decisions often need to be made quickly. That’s why having an experienced partner by your side is invaluable. At Berkman Forwarding, our experts are ready to guide you through the process and help you choose the smartest solution for your shipment.

Contact us