What are the different types of air cargo?

Published: Wednesday, 25 October 2023

Types of air cargo

Companies operating on an international scale need an effective way of transporting goods quickly, securely and reliably. That’s where air cargo comes into play, as moving goods by plane is the fastest and most efficient method of getting a consignment to its destination. Let’s take a look at the different types of air cargo and why it’s important to work with a time-critical logistic specialist:

What is air cargo?

Air cargo plays a huge role in modern logistics. Air freight services transport goods and products via aircraft, either in passenger aircraft cargo holds or on a cargo-only aircraft. On board couriers even carry sensitive items such as government documents onto a plane and safeguard the cargo from door-to-door – even if the destination is on the other side of the world. Air charter services offer unparalleled speed and flexibility compared to other modes of transport, making it a preferred option for many businesses, despite typically higher costs.

Types of air cargo

You might be surprised at what takes to the sky. Let’s take a look at the various types of air cargo:

1. General cargo

General cargo refers to items that do not require any specific handling or storage conditions during transportation. It can include things such as electronics, clothing, machinery parts and more. Global freight solutions such as air charters are a great option when two countries are divided by the sea. Of course, shipping by boat is an option, but air freight forwarding tends to be the quicker solution – great for time-sensitive deliveries.

2. Special cargo

As the name suggests, this type of cargo is a little higher maintenance and usually has unique storage and handling requirements. Special cargo can include all sorts of interesting items such as fine art, pharmaceuticals and delicate equipment. When transporting medicines, for example, specific temperature controls might be needed to ensure they remain safe for human use. Additional security measures might be requested too. Museums often rely on special cargo services to transport priceless artefacts safely.

3. Live animals

Did you know that many live animals are transported as air cargo? This can include a variety of creatures, from pets and farm animals to rare species destined for zoos and conservation centres. Of course, special care is always given to animals to ensure they travel safely and with as little distress as possible.

4. Dangerous or hazardous cargo

Hazardous goods need special storage and handling. They can’t just be bundled in with regular cargo. Air freight cargo is often subject to Dangerous Goods Regulations. This is the global standard for transporting hazardous materials by air such as explosives, flammable gases, flammable liquids, flammable solids, toxic and infectious products, radioactive items, corrosives and more.

Logistics specialists offering air freight forwarding services will handle all cargo with care and work out the best way to get products from A to B. Contact our logistics team today!