In the dynamic world of air freight forwarding, mastering industry-specific jargon is the key to seamless communication across booking, transportation, and customs clearance. At Winsail Logistics, we're committed to empowering our clients with knowledge. Here's a detailed breakdown of essential terms to enhance your air cargo operations:

1. Core Documentation & Identification

• AWB (Air Waybill): The binding contract between the carrier and shipper, serving as both a receipt and delivery order. It comes in two forms: MAWB (Master AWB issued by airlines) and HAWB (House AWB issued by freight forwarders like Winsail Logistics), both featuring a globally standardized 11-digit numbering system and are non-negotiable.
• HWB (House Waybill): Specifically issued by freight forwarders to differentiate shipments under a single MAWB, facilitating internal management and client tracking.
• Booking Number: A unique identifier assigned post-booking with airlines or forwarders, crucial for confirming space and tracking shipments.

2. Transportation Units & Equipment

• ULD (Unit Load Device): Standardized containers (e.g., AKE for small containers) and pallets (e.g., PMC for standard pallets) designed for efficient cargo consolidation and handling, ideal for bulk shipments.
• MTOW (Maximum Take-Off Weight): The maximum allowable weight of an aircraft at takeoff, encompassing airframe, fuel, cargo, and passengers, directly influencing cargo capacity.
• LDM (Lower Deck Maximum): The weight or volume limit for cargo in the lower deck of an aircraft, varying by aircraft type (e.g., wide-body vs. narrow-body).

3. Pricing & Tariffs

• TACT (The Air Cargo Tariff): The definitive guide for global air freight pricing, updated regularly by IATA, comprising TACT Rules (regulatory guidelines) and TACT Rates (pricing schedules).
• GCR (General Cargo Rate): Standard rates for non-specialized cargo, categorized into N (Normal Rate for shipments under 45kg) and Q (Quantity Rate for bulk shipments over 45kg).
• SCR (Specific Commodity Rate): Discounted rates for designated commodities (e.g., electronics, perishables), subject to specific naming and minimum weight requirements, typically lower than GCR.
• CCR (Class Rate): Premium or discounted rates based on GCR for goods requiring special handling (e.g., valuables, hazardous materials), e.g., valuables may incur a 150% surcharge on GCR.

4. Operational Procedures

• Manifest: A detailed cargo inventory submitted by airlines to customs, listing flight numbers, cargo descriptions, weights, and consignee details, available in Master and House variants.
• ULD Control: The systematic tracking, allocation, and maintenance of ULDs to ensure their integrity and efficient circulation, minimizing losses from damage or misplacement.
• Acceptance Check: A thorough inspection by airlines or forwarders to verify cargo compliance with air transport standards (e.g., hazardous materials requiring a Dangerous Goods Declaration).

5. Additional Key Terms

• Chargable Weight: The higher of actual weight or volumetric weight (calculated as Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 6000, though some carriers use 5000) for billing purposes.
• Transshipment: The process of transferring cargo via an intermediate airport to reach its final destination (e.g., Chinese goods transiting through Dubai to Africa), potentially incurring additional costs and delays.
• Dead Freight: A penalty charged to shippers who fail to deliver booked cargo, compensating airlines for lost capacity.

At Winsail Logistics, we're more than just a freight forwarder; we're your partner in navigating the complexities of air freight. Stay informed, stay efficient, and let's soar together!