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International air transport and international express delivery represent two distinct modes of transportation, each with its own unique characteristics. Below, Shenzhen NEW SPEED International Logistics will provide a brief analysis to assist everyone in understanding the differences.
Transportation Entities:
Firstly, in international air transport, major airlines such as Air China, Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Northwest Airlines, etc., serve as the primary carriers. These airlines are utilized by freight companies to transport consigned goods to designated destinations, typically the airport in the recipient city.
On the other hand, major express companies like China Post EMS, DHL Sinotrans, TNT Logistics, 無停電電源装置, and フェデックス are the main carriers for international express delivery. Packages are primarily transported to their destinations through these express companies. However, it’s common for individuals to engage international freight forwarders due to significantly lower prices compared to published express rates. Directly utilizing express companies for shipping can result in significantly higher transportation costs, making freight forwarders the preferred option for small and medium-sized sellers.
Service Scope:
International air transport generally delivers goods only to airports, whereas international express delivery typically offers door-to-door services.
Service Content:
Express delivery services include domestic and destination country customs clearance agency services, as well as delivery to the recipient’s address. However, destination country tariffs are not included.
In contrast, customs clearance in the destination country is not included in air transportation. Customers are required to pick up the goods at the airport and handle customs clearance themselves.
Timeliness:
The transportation timeframes for both international air freight and international express delivery are similar, typically taking a few days. However, the choice between the two may vary depending on factors such as destination and the efficiency of transportation companies, flight schedules, and destination country customs clearance speeds.
Billing Method:
International air transport calculates charges based on the larger of the volumetric weight and the actual weight. Conversely, major express companies like DHL, UPS, TNT, and FedEx use a similar billing method to international air transport, considering whichever is greater between volumetric weight and actual weight. EMS international express, however, charges based solely on weight.
Tracking Methods:
Tracking and checking goods with express companies can be done using the waybill number provided by the international express company on their website. For air freight, checking can be done using the bill of lading number on the airline website.
Respective Advantages:
International air transport benefits from lower costs due to direct cooperation with major airlines, making it advantageous for larger and heavier goods. In contrast, international express delivery offers faster timeliness and lower starting prices for documents and small parcels. Additionally, express companies provide their networks for convenient tracking and detailed transfer records, along with door-to-door services for customs declaration, clearance, and inspection procedures on behalf of customers.