Fast, Secure & Strategic Air Freight
Solutions for Modern Supply Chains
Global logistics continues to evolve, with air freight demand rising more than 11% since early 2025. As businesses navigate geopolitical shifts and increased consumer expectations, air freight remains the fastest and most secure method for international transport.
At Lex Logistics, we help companies evaluate, plan, and execute air shipping strategies that enhance reliability, improve lead times, and support long-term supply chain resilience.
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The Role of Air Freight in Global Trade
Air freight is the fastest and most time-sensitive mode of international transport. It supports industries where precision, reliability, and speed are essential—such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, perishables, aerospace, and urgent manufacturing components.
Common Air Freight Applications
- High-value electronics
- Critical medical & pharmaceutical goods
- Perishable and temperature-sensitive items
- Urgent automotive and industrial components
- Time-sensitive retail shipments
When executed properly, air freight offers unmatched global reliability and speed.
Key Components of Air Freight Shipping
Air freight logistics is built on strict handling standards, verified documentation, secure loading processes, and coordinated routing across global hubs.
1. Handling & Security
Airports maintain advanced screening, secure storage, and restricted-access cargo zones to protect valuable shipments and maintain compliance.
2. Documentation Essentials
Accurate documents ensure smooth customs clearance and prevent delays.
Required documents:
- Air Waybill (AWB)
- Commercial invoice
- Export & import declarations
- Certificate of origin
Lex Logistics prepares and reviews these documents to ensure error-free movement.
Types of Air Freight Services
Air freight services vary by speed, cost, and cargo priority. Choosing the right model depends on your shipment’s urgency and value.
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1. Express Air Freight
The fastest option—typically delivered within 24–48 hours. Ideal for medical supplies, perishables, and critical manufacturing parts. -
2. Consolidated Air Freight
Cargo is grouped with other shipments to reduce cost. Best for SMEs, non-urgent items, and budget-conscious shippers. -
3. Charter Air Freight
A dedicated aircraft reserved exclusively for one shipment. Used for oversized machinery, high-value equipment, or critical project cargo.
Air freight services can be customized based on urgency, cargo sensitivity, and routing requirements.
How Air Freight Costs Are Calculated
Air freight pricing varies depending on distance, weight, cargo type, and surcharges. Understanding these components helps you plan accurately.
Key Cost Factors
Air freight charges are based on both the physical and volumetric size of your shipment.
- Origin & destination
- Chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric)
- Cargo handling requirements
- Fuel surcharges
- Security surcharges
- Service level (Express, Consolidated, Charter)
Understanding Chargeable Weight
Airlines calculate shipping charges using the greater of the two:
- Actual weight
- Volumetric weight (L × W × H ÷ 6000)
This ensures large, lightweight cargo pays fairly for the aircraft space it occupies.
Lex Logistics provides transparent pricing and route optimization to reduce total air freight costs.
Benefits of Air Freight
Air freight supports businesses that require precision, speed, and exceptional product protection.
With frequent departures, tight security, and advanced tracking systems, air freight provides predictable and reliable movement across all major trade routes.
Key Business Advantages
- Fastest global transit speeds
- Highly predictable scheduling
- Superior cargo security
- Reliable support for just-in-time supply chains
Strategic Optimization Tips
- Match service type to cargo urgency
- Use consolidation to lower costs
- Plan ahead to secure capacity
- Leverage tracking tools for visibility
Air freight is the ideal choice when speed, security, and reliability directly impact business continuity.
Get a Free Air Freight Quote
Need express, consolidated, or charter air service? Send us your shipment details and our team will prepare a tailored, cost-optimized air freight solution.
Request QuoteFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When should I choose air freight over ocean freight?
Choose air freight when speed, security, or product sensitivity outweigh cost concerns—especially for perishables, high-value items, or urgent shipments.
2. How is air freight pricing calculated?
Rates are based on chargeable weight, distance, cargo type, fuel surcharges, security fees, and service level (express, consolidated, or charter).
3. Can small businesses use air freight cost-effectively?
Yes—consolidated air freight allows SMEs to ship small volumes affordably without paying for full aircraft allocation.
4. What documents are required for air shipments?
Common documents include an Air Waybill, commercial invoice, packing list, and any required export/import declarations.
5. Does air freight provide real-time tracking?
Yes. Air freight is known for some of the most advanced and transparent tracking capabilities in global logistics.