In business, deadlines are more than just dates on a calendar—they’re critical operational objectives. Urgently restocking a best-selling product, getting exhibition materials to a trade show on time, or shipping a crucial replacement part to prevent a costly production shutdown are just a few examples of non-negotiable deadlines. In these moments, standard shipping times often won’t do.
When you’re shipping large or heavy goods and the clock is ticking, you need a solution that prioritises speed above all else. For bulk items, this often means sending them on a pallet. But how do you get a whole pallet of goods from A to B in the fastest time possible? The answer lies in air freight.
With expert insight from Pallet2Ship, pallet delivery and air freight specialists, we will explain how air freight makes the difference when speed matters.
When Speed is Key, Choose Air Freight
If ocean freight is the reliable and steady option in international logistics, then air freight is the supersonic jet. It is the fastest method for covering long distances, turning a journey of weeks into hours.
When your pallet delivery is time-critical, air freight offers several key advantages:
- Unmatched speed: This is its number one benefit. A pallet can cross continents and be at its destination faster than any other method, such as sea or road freight.
- High efficiency: Airline schedules are tight, so airlines aim to get aircraft airborne as quickly as possible without compromising safety or quality. This enables precise tracking and reliable arrival times, providing you and your customers with peace of mind.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Fast Pallet Delivery
If you’re new to international logistics, sending a pallet by air freight might sound complicated, but it’s a smooth process if you follow a few key steps.
Step 1: Prepare Your Pallet Properly
A poorly packed pallet is the first hurdle where things can go wrong. It might be rejected by the carrier or, worse, fall apart during transit. For a speedy journey, preparation is everything.
- Start with a solid base: Use a sturdy, good-quality pallet. Standard (1200 x 1000 mm) or European (1200 x 800 mm) pallets are recommended.
- Stack like a pro: Place the heaviest items at the bottom and build up in layers, as you would a brick wall. Ensure the top surface is as flat as possible to avoid goods falling or being damaged.
- Secure it tightly: Use high-quality shrink wrap, and wrap it around the base of the pallet and the goods multiple times. For extra security, use strong straps to bind the load together.
Step 2: Get Your Paperwork in Order
For international shipments, incorrect or incomplete paperwork can easily cause delays. Your pallet could be held in customs, resulting in a headache you could do without.
While your shipping partner will guide you, you’ll generally need:
- A commercial invoice: This document details the contents of the shipment, their value, and the details of the sender and receiver.
- A packing list: An itemised list of everything loaded onto the pallet.
- Additional forms: Air freight paperwork is straightforward but can initially feel overwhelming. Be aware of documents such as an air waybill, packing list, proforma invoice, certificate of origin, and customs declaration.
Step 3: Choose the Right Logistics Partner
There’s no need to navigate the world of air freight alone. A good logistics partner or freight forwarder is essential. They act as the agent for your shipment, ensuring you’re supported and doing all the right things to ensure a successful experience.
A partner that specialises in air freight will also have established relationships with airlines and the expertise to handle the complexities of international shipping. They can provide a precise, all-in-one quote and even act as your customs broker, ensuring your pallet moves across borders without a hitch.
When speed is critical, air freight and a reliable logistics partner are essential for success.
