When it comes to international air exports, shippers face a number of complexities and disruptions. While many are unpredictable and out of shippers’ control, planning for the unexpected and having the right logistics partner in place who understands the many nuances of transportation can help position shippers for success and add value to their bottom line- all while helping to ensure that their freight arrives on time and without incident.
Understanding and preparing for some of the most common challenges for international air exports can help shippers and freight forwarding companies maximize efficiency while ensuring their cargo arrives safely and timely.
Capacity Constraints
Supply chains can be impacted by a number of headwinds, and among the most notable are fluctuations in capacity. Working with a logistics partner that is experienced in air exports from the US and has a network of available air capacity providers can provide flexibility and help ensure that capacity is available when it matters most.
Security Issues
Fraud, theft, cybersecurity, and physical security of international air exports are major concerns plaguing shippers and can cost companies a great deal of time and money to resolve. In the U.S. and Canada alone, cargo theft was responsible for the loss of more than $200 million in freight during 2022. Working with partners that have rigid security protocols, technology, and processes in place to protect air cargo can help to alleviate concerns around theft or tampering with shipments by eliminating unauthorized access to freight.
Environmental Concerns
As supply chains face the mandate to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt more sustainable practices, international air exports are being pressured to follow suit. Aviation accounts for 2.5% of global carbon emissions, driven heavily by fuel consumption and inefficient route planning. Working with a logistics partner that prioritizes sustainability and – looks to automate processes, plan for maximum efficiency, and reduce waste can help companies achieve their sustainability goals.
International Documentation and Customs
Different countries have different requirements when it comes to international imports s, and shippers need to be mindful of tariffs, necessary documentation, change restrictions, safety requirements, proper handling of hazardous materials, and customs regulations for the various countries involved in the shipping process. Navigating these requirements can easily become overwhelming, but working with a reliable logistics partner who is skilled in navigating them can help to ensure that shippers remain compliant.
Supply Chain Disruptions
While some disruptions — such as peak season or Chinese New Year — are expected and can be planned for, others arise without warning. Geopolitical events, labor shortages, cyberattacks, pandemics, hurricanes and other natural disasters can occur without warning and have major impacts on international air exports. Having contingency plans in place, diversifying suppliers, and working with a logistics partner that has flexible capacity options in place can help to mitigate these disruptions and minimize their impact on international transportation.
Technology and Digitization
While many industries have made the transition from paper documentation to digitization for enhanced efficiency and security, the air cargo industry still relies heavily on paper documentation before international air exports can be sent to their final destination. While digitization would help to improve efficiencies and ensure documentation is easily accessible, it could also open the door to additional cybersecurity concerns. Working with air carriers and logistics partners to create as much transparency as possible when shipping international air exports is paramount to helping ensure freight security.
Your Partner for International Air Exports
While there are many logistics providers that handle international air exports, it is important to seek one that offers flexible capacity solutions to ensure efficient and safe transport of even the most sensitive freight.
To learn more about EFW’s international air export services, click here.
