Most companies will face it at some point:

An urgent shipping deadline that’s not-negotiable.

Money lost – in the form of downtime – is on the line. Productivity is at risk and you’re responsible for getting things back on track – like, NOW.

In situations like these, air freight is your best friend.

Here’s what you need to know about this option.

What is air freight?

The simplest way to define it is: Transporting goods by aircraft.

There are two main reasons to use this method of shipping your important materials or parts.

  • Speed. Air freight is often the fastest way to get something from Point A to Point B.
  • Dependability. Other than delays related to the weather, air freight has the lowest possibility of delays.

The cost factor

The biggest reason you may avoid using air freight is the expense.

There’s no denying it’s the most costly option for shipping.

But that’s only one part of the equation.

Using the right strategy can actually save you money, over time.

  • Remember, downtime is also costing you – possibly a LOT.
  • While air freight may seem cost-prohibitive, it’s actually a cost-effective solution if you’re able to get production up and running more quickly.

It’s important to keep in mind that air freight isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

Your shipping strategy will be tailored to your specific needs.

Your air-freight options

Because this is a specialized solution, there are a variety of ways air freight can work for you.

Each one is designed with your unique emergency-shipping needs in mind.

Here are the four main choices.

1. Next flight out

Just like the name implies, your nuclear reactor replacement part or pipeline component will go out as soon as a flight is available.

This is the fastest of the expedited shipping options, but it’s also the most costly

2. Next day air

There are no weight or size limits for this expedited service.

Your shipment is customized – including pick-up –  so that you can receive it any time of the day or night.

Paying workers who can’t work without a replacement part is a drain on your bottom line. Next day air ensures you won’t have days of downtime on a construction site.

3. Second day air

Sometimes you may need a shipment more quickly than ground expediting can get it to you, but it’s not an immediate emergency, either.

Second day air is the cost-effective happy medium.

4. Air charter

While a charter is the most costly air freight option, it’s also the quickest way to get time-sensitive shipment where it needs to go.

Advantages include:

  • A high level of customization.
  • You have maximum control.
  • Your freight is the only thing on board.

Your precious cargo may be shipped via turboprop, wide-body or Lear jet, depending on your needs and what your freight is.

You need the right domestic air freight forwarder

Not all expediters are created equal.

Be choosy about who you allow to handle your most time-sensitive shipments.

Look for a company that is:

  • Reliable.
  • Available 24/7.
  • Transparent and stays in communication.
  • Able to offer you a customized solution based on their expertise and longevity in the industry.

Whether you need next flight out, next day air, second day air or air charter services, the right partner can make all the difference.

You’ll never have to worry that your shipment will be late or that your equipment will arrive in anything less than pristine condition.

Are you prepared for your next emergency? call in now or request a free quote