Air Cargo Glossary

An acceptance check is the systematic verification process conducted by carriers or ground handling agents to confirm that a shipment meets all requirements and is ready for air transport. The process involves verifying that shipments are security cleared, performing a ready-for-carriage check that confirms all information aligns with the actual shipment, and ensuring all embargoes and operational restrictions are applied. Before a consignment is first accepted for carriage by air, the operator must use a checklist to verify compliance, with operators required to identify the person who performs the check.

An active container is a self-powered ULD with integrated heating and cooling, typically set to +2 to +8°C, +15 to +25°C or, increasingly, sub-zero set points for frozen biologics. Active containers have electrical cooling and heating systems, which can be plugged in at airport facilities. Autonomously running batteries and temperature settings can be maintained for over 100 hours in a typical shipment scenario and for a minimum of 30 hours in extreme conditions. Standard form factors are RKN (single-pallet footprint) and RAP (multi-pallet). Airlines approve specific manufacturers' units and make them available on lease through pharma products and stations worldwide.

Advanced Cargo Information (ACI) is an electronic data submission system that requires carriers, freight forwarders, and other supply chain participants to transmit detailed cargo information to customs authorities before shipment arrival. The advance electronic transmission of air cargo data is primarily aimed at offsetting security risks by providing to Customs administrations sufficient time to undertake an adequate risk assessment of cargo prior to the arrival of the carrying aircraft in their territory. For instance, in air transport, cargo information usually needs to be provided four hours before arrival. ACI programs have expanded globally, with at least 70 countries already requesting ACI submissions with specific references to the WCO SAFE implementation.

An Air Waybill (AWB) is a non-negotiable transport document that is mandatory for all air shipments. It serves as a binding contract between the shipper and the carrier, a receipt confirming the airline has received the cargo, a customs declaration providing essential shipment details for border clearance, and a key reference for real-time tracking throughout the journey. Unlike ocean bills of lading, an AWB does not confer title to the goods. Every air waybill has a unique 11-digit number consisting of a 3-digit airline prefix (IATA-assigned airline identification code), a 7-digit sequential shipment number, and a 1-digit check digit calculated from the preceding 10 digits.

An All-In Rate is a comprehensive air cargo rate that includes all applicable surcharges within a single quoted price. It covers freight charges, handling fees, customs duties, and other applicable fees or surcharges, providing a simplified and transparent pricing structure for shippers and carriers in the supply chain. Unlike standard tariff rates where surcharges are itemized separately, All-In Rates consolidate these costs into one total price, eliminating the need for shippers to calculate multiple additional fees.

AMS Filing is the electronic submission of cargo manifest data to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) through the Automated Manifest System before shipments arrive at U.S. entry points. This advance filing allows CBP to conduct security risk assessments and facilitate faster cargo clearance upon arrival. For air cargo, AMS data must be filed 4 hours before the aircraft's arrival in the United States, while ocean freight requires filing 24 hours before departure from the foreign port. Inaccurate or late filings can result in severe penalties up to $10,000 per violation.

ARR is an IATA tracking status code that indicates a shipment has arrived at its destination airport or cargo facility. This status appears in Freight Status Update (FSU) messages as FSU ARR, providing automated notification that cargo has reached the end of its flight segment. The ARR status confirms physical arrival but precedes other terminal handling events like receipt from flight (RCF) or final delivery to consignees.

An AWB prefix is a three-digit number assigned by IATA to airlines with cargo operations. It forms the first three digits of every air waybill number and uniquely identifies the issuing carrier. AWB numbers consist of three components: the airline prefix (3 digits), a serial number (7 digits), and a check digit (1 digit). Only airlines with cargo operations have AWB prefixes assigned by IATA—of the 6,352 airlines in FreightUtils' database, 390 have AWB prefixes.

AWD (Documents Received by Airline) is a tracking status code indicating that the airline has received all required shipping documentation for an air cargo shipment from the freight forwarder or shipper. This status confirms that paperwork such as the air waybill, commercial invoice, packing list, and any required permits or certificates are in the airline's possession and have been processed. The AWD status typically precedes physical cargo acceptance and marks a critical checkpoint in the export process, as incomplete or missing documentation can delay shipment departure.

Belly cargo is the space in the lower deck of passenger aircraft where cargo is stored during flight. This method involves transporting goods in the lower deck of passenger aircraft, leveraging the existing capacity of planes primarily designed for passenger transport. Airlines combine cargo transportation with passenger traffic to reach a better occupancy rate of the space available on a flight. Height restrictions in passenger aircraft are typically 160cm for a Boeing 747 in passenger service, with a safe universal height limit of 152cm for lower decks.

Breakdown is the process of removing individual pieces of cargo from a ULD (Unit Load Device) after aircraft arrival and unloading at the destination cargo terminal. The build-up and break-down of unit load devices are the most manpower-intensive operations at air cargo terminals. Breakdown operations typically occur in a warehouse area designed for the processing, break-down/buildup, inspection, and storage of cargo. ULD serviceability checks are required after ULD break-down to maintain continued airworthiness.

Build-Up is the process of loading and securing cargo onto aircraft pallets or into aircraft containers (Unit Load Devices) in preparation for air transport. The process includes planning ULD size and contour selection, optimizing weight distribution, and securing cargo according to IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM) and ULD Regulations (ULDR) standards. Build-Up follows specific loading principles including placing heavy cargo at the bottom with lighter items on top, ensuring even weight distribution throughout the ULD, and maintaining proper center of gravity limits for flight safety. All cargo must be secured using appropriate restraint systems including straps, nets, or tie-downs to prevent movement during flight operations.

Bulk cargo in air freight refers to goods loaded loose and individually into aircraft cargo holds without packaging or containerization. This loading method is commonly used on narrow-body short-haul aircraft where baggage and cargo items are counted individually rather than weighed by container. Netting is used to restrain bulk loaded items within holds to prevent movement during flight. Airlines use bulk cargo operations when shipments don't require specialized containers or when maximizing cargo hold capacity is critical for operational efficiency.

Carbon offsetting is an action by a company or individual to compensate for their emissions by financing a reduction in emissions elsewhere. In air cargo operations, the offset can be equivalent in part or in whole to the associated emissions, by financing compensated – or offset – by preventing or reducing a similar amount of emission elsewhere. This compensation can be performed by the airline itself or by its passengers. A clear distinction exists between airline mandatory offsetting requirements under ICAO's Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and voluntary passenger or cargo customer action. Airlines cannot make any claims for offsets that passengers have voluntarily invested in and cannot use such offsets for frameworks like CORSIA.

A Cargo Charges Correction Advice (CCA) is a document used for the notification of changes to charges and/or method of payment inserted on an air waybill. Since the air waybill is a legal contract that binds the Shipper, Consignee, Agent, and carrier to the terms of a transaction, a CCA needs to be created if there is a change to the air waybill. Its main function is to notify relevant parties of corrections to charges or other related information on the Air Waybill (AWB). Relevant parties include the origin station, destination station, involved carriers, the finance department of the airline responsible for the waybill, and air freight settlement units. The CCA must be processed and signed before the cargo ships.

A cargo claim is a formal written demand for financial compensation submitted to an air carrier for loss, damage, delay, or shortage of cargo during air transport under a contract of carriage. The claim initiates the carrier's liability assessment and compensation process governed by international conventions. Under the Warsaw Convention, damage claims must be filed within 7 days of cargo receipt and delay claims within 14 days, while the Montreal Convention extends damage claims to 14 days and delay claims to 21 days. Claims that exceed these time limits cannot be brought against the carrier and are automatically forfeited.

A cargo hub is an airport that primarily is operated by a cargo airline that uses the hub-and-spoke system. Hub airports also serve as central points for cargo transfer, enabling airlines to consolidate and distribute freight efficiently. Cargo Operations are the hub of the air cargo supply chain and are performed by hundreds of handlers at thousands of airports around the world. In the United States, two of the largest cargo hub airports, FedEx's Memphis Superhub and UPS Louisville Worldport, are close to the mean center of the United States population.

Cargo insurance is a financial protection policy that covers goods against loss, damage, theft, or delay during air transportation. It provides financial protection against loss or damage in transit and extends coverage beyond the limited liability that airlines carry under international conventions. Under the Montreal Convention, airline liability is capped at 26 SDRs (approximately $34) per kilogram, making additional insurance essential for valuable shipments where actual value exceeds this minimal coverage.

Cargo iQ is an IATA interest group with the mission of creating and implementing quality standards for the worldwide air cargo industry. Cargo iQ operates as a not-for-profit membership group supported by IATA and composed of some 60-80 major airlines, freight forwarders, ground-handling agents, trucking companies and IT solution providers globally. Members developed a system of shipment planning and performance monitoring for air cargo based on common business processes and milestones, as part of the Master Operating Plan (MOP) that describes the standard end-to-end process of transporting air cargo. The organization was formerly known as Cargo 2000 before IATA changed the program name 25 years ago.

A cargo manifest is a comprehensive document that lists all cargo items loaded onto a specific aircraft flight. It serves as an official record providing detailed information about each shipment including descriptions, quantities, weights, and destinations. In the United States, this document must be filed on Customs Form 7509 and contain all required information regarding all cargo on board the aircraft. The flight manifest data is owned by airlines, who are responsible for ensuring accurate transmission to customs authorities prior to arrival.

A Cargo Security Program is a regulatory security framework that requires screening and securing of air cargo transported on aircraft, ensuring 100% of cargo on passenger aircraft is screened at a security level equivalent to passenger checked baggage screening. These programs establish specific security requirements for different types of aircraft operators, with standards varying based on aircraft weight thresholds and operational categories. The programs encompass seven core security pillars: chain of custody, training, facility security, compliance oversight, personnel security, screening, and protection of screened cargo. All regulated parties must use TSA-approved screening methods and technologies selected from the official Air Cargo Screening Technology List.

A cargo terminal is a specialized facility at an airport where air freight is received, processed, stored, and transferred between ground transportation and aircraft. It serves as the primary operational hub for cargo handling activities, including acceptance, security screening, documentation, ULD buildup and breakdown, and storage. Cargo terminals handle the entire shipping process from door-to-door according to IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM) operating procedures standard in every stage of the transport chain. Industry average cargo building utilization ranges from 1 to 2 tons per square foot, though this varies by facility type and operational efficiency.

Cargo-IMP is the IATA Cargo Interchange Message Procedures standard, an EDI protocol based on EDIFACT created to automate and standardize data exchange between airlines and other parties. It designates procedures for automating the exchange of space allocation, air waybill, flight manifest, accounting, status, discrepancy, embargo, customs, CASS billing, dangerous goods, allotments and surface transportation. IATA stopped supporting Cargo-IMP after the 34th edition in 2014, making it the final edition as the industry transitions to Cargo-XML. Nevertheless, Cargo-IMP is still widely used for electronic messaging in the industry regardless of the lack of enhancement from IATA.

Cargo-XML is an XML-based messaging standard developed by IATA to replace Cargo-IMP limitations and facilitate compliance with regulatory and authorities' requirements. The standard enables electronic communication between airlines and other air cargo supply chain stakeholders, including shippers, freight forwarders, ground-handling agents, regulators, customs and security agencies. Cargo-XML messages are published in accordance with Cargo Services Conference (CSC) Resolution 670 and Recommended Practice 1675, and IATA created the standard in 2012 to replace Cargo-IMP, with the final Cargo-IMP update released in 2014.

CASS (Cargo Accounts Settlement System) is an IATA-operated financial settlement system designed to simplify the billing and settling of accounts between airlines and freight forwarders. The system enables freight forwarders to receive a single consolidated invoice covering all their freight charges across participating airlines and make just one simplified payment. CASSLink, IATA's invoicing platform, operates in 97 CASS operations worldwide, serving over 20,000 airlines, general sales & service agents, ground handling companies and freight forwarders in more than 90 countries. The system processes over $50 billion in global sales annually with a 100% collection and settlement rate.

CCD (Customs Cleared at Destination) is a tracking status indicating that customs authorities have completed document inspection, import duty payment steps, and authorized the release of goods at the destination country. This status means cargo has been released by customs, the customs broker coordinates release with the carrier, and a delivery order is issued allowing the cargo to move from the port to the final destination. Air freight and express courier services typically hand cargo to the local delivery network almost immediately after customs clearance. Air cargo often clears customs within hours of arrival, with many cases completing in under 24 hours.

CEIV Fresh is an IATA certification that assesses organizations based on the Perishable Cargo Regulations (PCR) to establish baseline standards and best practices for efficiently managing time and temperature to prevent food loss. The certification ensures that facilities, equipment, operations and staff comply with food manufacturers' and distributors' needs and expectations. Organizations are assessed against standards including the FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission Standards, ISO 22000:2018, and the European Commission's food safety management system guidelines. The certification process requires at least two staff to pass the Perishable Cargo Logistics Management course and undergo a 3-4 day facility assessment.

CEIV Live Animals is an IATA certification program that assesses organizations based on the checklist in Appendix I of the Guidelines for CEIV for Live Animals Logistics of the IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR). The Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) in Live Animals program establishes baseline standards to improve the level of competency, infrastructure and quality management in the handling and transportation of live animals throughout the supply chain. The certification covers critical areas including quality management systems, personnel training, regulatory compliance, documentation processes, infrastructure and equipment such as Unit Load Devices (ULDs), and monitoring systems. Certification is valid for three years and requires refresher training and re-assessment to maintain status.

CEIV Pharma is the Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics, a globally recognized certification program established by IATA to help organizations achieve pharmaceutical handling excellence. The certification ensures airlines, freight forwarders, ground handlers, and other supply chain participants meet the highest standards for safety, security, compliance, and efficiency in handling temperature-controlled pharmaceutical shipments. Organizations are assessed based on a comprehensive checklist in Appendix D of the IATA Temperature Control Regulations (TCR), covering critical areas including quality management, personnel training, infrastructure, equipment, and documentation. CEIV Pharma certification encompasses or supersedes Good Distribution Practice (GDP) requirements, providing globally harmonized standards specifically for air cargo operations.

A Certificate of Origin (COO) is a critical document in international trade that certifies the country in which goods were manufactured or produced. It's required for customs clearance, trade agreements, and sanctions compliance, and is typically issued by a chamber of commerce or authorized body. Some countries' Customs require a CoO along with the packing list and commercial invoice for customs clearance. When shipments move under Free Trade Agreements, a correct COO helps determine eligibility for preferential tariffs and can reduce or eliminate duties.

Chargeable weight is the quantified weight used to calculate the freight rate, appearing on your invoice identifying what the carrier will charge to move your cargo. It is determined by comparing actual weight (gross weight) with volumetric weight and selecting the higher value. IATA's standard formula calculates volumetric weight using a divisor of 6,000 cubic centimeters per kilogram, though some carriers may use different divisors. This system ensures carriers are compensated fairly for both the weight and space occupied by shipments on aircraft.

A check digit is a single-digit numerical verification code that forms the 11th and final digit of an Air Waybill (AWB) number. The check digit is derived by dividing the seven-digit serial number by 7 and taking the remainder as the check digit. This is also referred to as Modulo 7 checking. The check digit can only be 0-6 and will repeat every seventh number.

Cold chain refers to a temperature-controlled supply chain system that maintains specific temperature ranges for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products, vaccines, and biologics during storage and transportation. In air cargo operations, the cold chain ensures these products maintain their potency and effectiveness through continuous temperature control from origin to destination. The standard temperature range for most pharmaceutical cold chain shipments is 2°C to 8°C (35°F to 46°F), as required by FDA guidelines and IATA Temperature Control Regulations. Since July 2013, IATA requires a Time and Temperature Sensitive label and Standard Acceptance Checklist for all cold chain pharmaceutical shipments.

A combi aircraft is a commercial airplane configured to simultaneously transport passengers and cargo on the main deck. Combi aircraft typically feature an oversized cargo door and tracks on the cabin floor to allow seats to be added or removed quickly. Class B cargo compartments are found on combi aircraft between the flight deck and passenger cabin or behind the passenger cabin at the rear of the aircraft, with both cargo and passengers carried on the main deck. The configuration provides operational flexibility for routes with mixed passenger and cargo demand, particularly in remote regions where dedicated freighters or passenger aircraft would be uneconomical.

A commercial invoice is a detailed document that establishes the financial and commercial terms of an air cargo transaction between the seller (shipper) and buyer (consignee). This mandatory document describes the commercial transaction between the seller (shipper) and the buyer (the importer). As such is it a key accounting document, providing the core of what's needed for export compliance and the customs clearance process. The Commercial Invoice provides the financial foundation for customs clearance by documenting the transaction's commercial terms and cargo value. Customs authorities use this document to assess duties and taxes. The commercial invoice is one of the most important documents required as this contains most of the basic information required related to the shipment. This includes a breakdown of all of the items within the cargo, the quantity, weight, value and the origin location.

A connecting carrier is a carrier whose service the cargo is to be transferred for onward connecting transportation. Interline carriage involves the carriage over the routes of two or more air carriers. Each connecting carrier handles a specific segment of the overall journey, with liability and responsibility transferring at designated handover points between carriers. The Transfer Manifest (TRM) serves as the document executed by the transferring carrier upon transfer of interline cargo and endorsed by the receiving carrier as a receipt for the consignment transferred.

A consignee is the party named on an air waybill as the designated recipient of a shipment. The consignee is the person whose name appears on the air waybill or shipment record as the party to whom the goods are to be delivered by the carrier. The consignee receives the cargo at destination from the airline or ground handling agent after cargo handling processes are completed. The consignee does not sign the contract of carriage but has legal rights to receive the cargo and may be responsible for customs clearance and import duties at the destination airport.

A Consignment Security Declaration (CSD) is a standardized document that provides regulators with an audit trail of how, when and by whom cargo has been secured along the supply chain. Its objective is to meet ICAO requirements, ensuring that each consignment received by an aircraft operator or a regulated agent comes with documentation, either on the e-Air Waybill or on a separate declaration. To avoid a plethora of different security declarations, IATA developed a standard CSD in cooperation with the industry and regulators. In November 2015, the IATA e-CSD/CSD Resolution 651 entered into force, offering industry stakeholders and IATA carriers a universal standard that provides consignment information aligned with ICAO Aviation Security Manual (Doc 8973 – Restricted) guidance and the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998.

Consolidated cargo is a shipping method where multiple smaller consignments from different shippers are combined into a single larger shipment for transport by air. Consignments going to the same destination but from various shippers are booked under one master air waybill (MAWB) and each shipper is provided with a house air waybill (HAWB). The primary reason for using consolidated cargo is cost efficiency, as freight forwarders can negotiate lower airline rates and pass on savings to shippers. This approach helps reduce costs, improve space efficiency, and provide access to air freight services for lower volume shipments.

Controlled Room Temperature (CRT) is a temperature range of +15°C to +25°C used for storing and transporting temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products and biologicals during air cargo operations. CRT represents one of the four official IATA temperature ranges for passive healthcare shipments that require controlled environmental conditions but do not need refrigeration. IATA requires Time and Temperature Sensitive labels displaying the 15–25°C range on CRT shipments to alert all handlers to special handling requirements. Most air hubs have limited capabilities for maintaining the 15-25°C temperature bracket compared to refrigerated storage options.

CORSIA is the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, a global market-based measure adopted by ICAO in 2016 to address CO2 emissions from international aviation. All aircraft operators with international flights producing annual CO2 emissions greater than 10,000 tonnes must monitor, report and verify their emissions annually starting from 2019. Operators must purchase carbon offset credits to compensate for emissions above 85% of 2019 levels, with offsetting requirements beginning in 2021. CORSIA covers all aircraft operators conducting international flights, including passenger airlines, cargo airlines, business aviation, and private aviation.

Cryogenic cargo refers to shipments maintained at extremely low temperatures, typically at or below -150°C (-238°F), using liquid nitrogen or other cryogenic substances as cooling agents. These shipments require specialized insulated containers called CryoContainers and dewars to maintain payloads at cryogenic temperatures using liquid nitrogen (LN₂) as the primary cooling medium. Liquid nitrogen dry shippers are classified under IATA DGR as Dangerous Goods — UN 1977 (Nitrogen, refrigerated liquid) or, when properly constructed to meet dry shipper criteria, may qualify as non-restricted biological substances depending on their classification and LN₂ retention method. Free liquid nitrogen is classified as a Class 2.2 non-flammable, non-toxic compressed gas under IATA regulations, assigned UN number UN1977 (Nitrogen, refrigerated liquid).

A customs broker is a private individual, partnership, association, or corporation licensed, regulated, and empowered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to assist importers and exporters in meeting Federal requirements governing imports and exports. Brokers submit necessary information and appropriate payments to CBP on behalf of their clients and charge them a fee for this service, handling activities involving transactions with Customs concerning the entry and admissibility of merchandise, its classification and valuation, and the payment of duties, taxes, or other charges. Brokers must have expertise in the entry procedures, admissibility requirements, classification, valuation, and the rates of duty and applicable taxes and fees for imported merchandise. There are approximately 14,454 active licensed customs brokers in the United States.

Customs clearance is the official government process through which imported air cargo must pass before it can legally enter a destination country. Customs clearance in air freight is the official process that allows imported goods to legally enter a country. This procedure involves submitting required documentation, paying applicable duties and taxes, and obtaining approval from customs authorities. Release authorization issues when customs completes verification and receives duty payment. Electronic release messages trigger cargo availability for delivery. Documentation requirements typically include commercial invoices, packing lists, Air Waybills, and certificates of origin, with specific commodity classifications determining applicable duty rates.

Cutoff time is the latest time by which cargo must be delivered to a cargo terminal or airport facility to be accepted for a specific flight. It ensures ground handlers have adequate time to process, document, security screen, build up onto unit load devices (ULDs), and load cargo onto the aircraft before departure. Airlines and ground handling agents establish cutoff times based on flight schedules, cargo volume, security requirements, and operational constraints at each facility.

Dangerous goods are articles or substances which are capable of posing a hazard to health, safety, property or the environment and which are shown in the list of dangerous goods in the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations or which are classified according to those Regulations. These materials require special handling, packaging, labeling, and documentation procedures for air transport according to IATA DGR standards. IATA regulations define 9 classes of dangerous goods: explosives (1), gases (2), flammable liquids (3), flammable solids (4), oxidizers and peroxides (5), toxic and infectious substances (6), radioactive materials (7), corrosive substances (8), and miscellaneous (9, including lithium batteries). Personnel must hold valid training certificates renewed every 2 years to prepare, process, or accept dangerous goods shipments.

A Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) is a mandatory shipping document that certifies dangerous goods have been classified, packaged, marked, labeled, and declared in compliance with IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. The DGD provides critical information to aircraft operators and carriers in a standardized format throughout the air transportation industry. Section 8 of the IATA DGR requires a Shipper's Declaration to be completed by the shipper for each consignment of dangerous goods. The declaration must be signed by someone who has completed appropriate dangerous goods training in accordance with IATA and U.S. DOT regulations, with training updated every two years.

DAP (Delivered as Promised) is a key performance indicator in the Cargo iQ quality management system that measures whether a shipment's NFD (Notified for Delivery) milestone is achieved in full and on time according to the planned delivery schedule. This KPI tracks end-to-end air cargo performance by comparing actual delivery notification against the original promised delivery commitments made to the consignee. DAP serves as a core metric for carriers and freight forwarders to assess service reliability and identify process improvements in their air cargo operations.

De minimis is a monetary threshold set by each country that determines when customs duties and taxes are waived for imported goods. In air cargo operations, de minimis provides admission of articles free of duty and tax when the aggregate fair retail value of articles imported by one person on one day does not exceed the established threshold. The rule simplifies the customs clearance process by allowing qualifying shipments to bypass formal customs entry procedures and associated administrative costs. As of August 29, 2025, the United States has suspended duty-free de minimis treatment, eliminating its previous $800 threshold.

Dead Load is baggage, cargo, mail, ballast and equipment in compartments not included in dry operating weight of the aircraft. This represents the total weight of all items loaded into aircraft holds for transportation, distinct from structural aircraft components. Ballast loaded in hold is included when aircraft require additional weight for proper weight and balance calculations. Dead load calculations are essential for determining aircraft center of gravity and ensuring compliance with maximum weight limitations before takeoff.

Dead Weight (DWT) is the maximum weight capacity an aircraft can safely carry, including cargo, fuel, crew, baggage, and other operational necessities, excluding the aircraft's empty weight. In air cargo operations, this measurement determines the total payload available for freight and ensures compliance with aircraft weight limits and performance requirements. While the term originates from maritime shipping, in aviation it's more commonly referred to as maximum payload weight or useful load, and represents the critical factor in load planning and aircraft utilization for cargo carriers.

Deep Frozen (−80°C to −60°C) is a temperature-controlled air cargo service level that maintains pharmaceutical and biological products within an ultra-low temperature range between −80°C and −60°C during transport. This service category accommodates specialized medications such as mRNA vaccines, gene therapies, and certain biologics that require extreme cold conditions to preserve their efficacy. The temperature range requires specialized packaging systems using dry ice or liquid nitrogen, active refrigeration containers, or advanced passive thermal protection systems that can sustain these ultra-low conditions throughout the entire air transport journey.

DEP (Departed) is an IATA standard tracking status code indicating that a cargo shipment has physically departed from its origin airport or intermediate station on a specific flight. This status is typically updated through Freight Status Update (FSU) messages sent by carriers or ground handlers, usually within 60 minutes after the Actual Time of Departure (ATD) for the flight. DEP status provides critical visibility to shippers and freight forwarders that their cargo has moved beyond the departure station and is en route to its next destination or final delivery point.

DGR Class 1 is a restricted classification of dangerous goods comprising explosive substances and articles that are divided into six divisions (1.1 through 1.6) based on their explosive characteristics and hazard levels. Only those explosive substances and articles listed in the IATA Dangerous Goods List (Table 4.2) may be accepted for air transport. Division 1.4S explosives are the only Class 1 materials permitted on passenger aircraft, while only Division 1.3 compatibility groups C and G are permitted on cargo-only aircraft. Each explosive must be assigned to one of six divisions and to one of thirteen compatibility groups that identify the kinds of explosive substances and articles deemed compatible.

DGR Class 2 — Gases is the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulation classification for all gaseous materials transported by air, divided into three divisions: Division 2.1 (flammable gases), Division 2.2 (non-flammable, non-toxic gases), and Division 2.3 (toxic gases). These materials require specific packaging, marking, labeling, and shipping procedures in compliance with IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). Flammable gases can ignite when mixed with 13% or less air by volume, non-flammable gases may present asphyxiation or oxidizing hazards, and toxic gases are known or presumed to be toxic or corrosive to people with an LC50 value equal to or less than 5,000 mL/m3 (ppm).

DGR Class 3 — Flammable Liquids are liquids, mixtures of liquids, or liquids containing solids in solutions that give off a flammable vapor at temperatures of not more than 60°C (140°F). These substances present fire and explosion hazards, as well as toxic effects from inhalation or contact with skin during air transport. Flammable liquids are assigned to Packing Groups I through III based on their flash point and boiling point.

DGR Class 4 — Flammable Solids is a dangerous goods classification divided into three sub-classes: Class 4.1 (flammable solids, self-reactive substances and solid desensitized explosives), Class 4.2 (substances liable to spontaneous combustion), and Class 4.3 (substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases). All kinds of combustible solid items sent through air transport are governed by the IATA Class 4 Dangerous Goods Regulations. Classes 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 have been assigned a packing group which indicates the degree of danger: Packing Group I (substances presenting high danger), Packing Group II (substances presenting medium danger), and Packing Group III (substances presenting low danger).

DGR Class 5 comprises oxidizing substances and organic peroxides that cause or enhance fire, explosion, and combustion hazards. This class is divided into Division 5.1 (oxidizing substances) and Division 5.2 (organic peroxides), with air transport governed by IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. Airline carriers may refuse shipments if IATA DGR training has not been completed within the previous 24 months.

DGR Class 6 — Toxic & Infectious Substances is a dangerous goods classification under IATA regulations that encompasses toxic substances liable to cause serious harm and infectious substances that can cause disease in humans or animals. The classification is divided into two primary subcategories: Category A infectious substances (UN2814 for humans, UN2900 for animals) representing high-risk materials capable of causing permanent disability or fatal disease, and Category B infectious substances (UN3373) that pose lower risk but still require specialized handling. Air cargo operations require specific packing instructions such as P650 for Category B substances, which mandates triple packaging with leak-proof primary and secondary receptacles, absorbent material, and proper marking to ensure safe transport.

DGR Class 7 — Radioactive Material is the IATA dangerous goods classification for materials containing radionuclides above specific activity thresholds defined in the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. These materials are governed by IATA DGR Section 10 for air transport operations. Each package must display one of three radioactive labels (White-I, Yellow-II, or Yellow-III) based on surface radiation levels and transport index calculations. Class 7 shipments require specific carrier authorization for radioactive materials, with Yellow-III packages requiring direct airline approval before booking.

DGR Class 8 — Corrosives is a dangerous goods classification for liquids or solids that cause full thickness destruction of human skin at the site of contact within a specified period of time or, in the case of leakage, will materially damage or destroy other goods or the means of transport. This class is governed by IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) guidelines for identifying, documenting, packing, labeling, marking, and handling these materials in air cargo operations. Class 8 dangerous goods are assigned to packing groups I (high danger), II (medium danger), or III (low danger) to indicate the degree of hazard. Common examples include acid battery fluid, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, and wet batteries filled with acid.

DGR Class 9 — Miscellaneous is a dangerous goods classification for any substances and articles which during transport present a danger or hazard not covered by other dangerous goods classes. This class encompasses miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles, including environmentally hazardous substances. Common Class 9 materials include lithium batteries, asbestos, dry ice, and magnetized materials. Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles may be in UN Packing Group II or III, or have no Packing Group.

The dimensional weight formula is a standardized calculation used to determine volumetric weight by multiplying a shipment's length, width, and height in centimeters and dividing by 6,000. The divisor of 6,000 is an industry standard, set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to ensure fairness. Airlines use this formula to calculate chargeable weight by comparing volumetric weight against actual weight and billing for whichever is higher, ensuring aircraft space is monetized effectively. Some carriers use a divisor of 5,000 instead of 6,000 to calculate volumetric weight, which results in bulkier shipments being charged at a higher rate.

Diplomatic cargo refers to official shipments transported by air that are intended for diplomatic missions but do not qualify as diplomatic pouches under Article 27 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. These shipments are not entitled to the protections afforded properly designated diplomatic pouches under Article 27 of the VCDR. Unlike true diplomatic pouches, diplomatic cargo may be subject to standard air cargo security screening, customs inspection, and IATA regulations. The VCDR does not provide any protection against inspection for articles for the official use of the mission not labeled as a diplomatic pouch (i.e., diplomatic mail or diplomatic cargo).

DLV is a three-letter status code that indicates a shipment has been delivered to the consignee or their authorized agent. It appears in FSU (Freight Status Update) messages transmitted via IATA Cargo-IMP or Cargo-XML standards to notify freight forwarders and shippers that delivery has been completed. The status confirms the consignee or agent has received the cargo, marking the final milestone in the air cargo tracking lifecycle. DLV status may not be displayed at certain fiscal warehouses in countries including Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, and others due to customs regulations.

Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide that exists at extremely cold temperatures of -109.3°F (-78.5°C). It is classified as a Class 9 miscellaneous dangerous good under UN1845 and shipped under the proper shipping name Carbon Dioxide, Solid. Its unique property of sublimating directly from solid to gas makes it extremely effective for keeping products cold during transport, particularly food, pharmaceuticals, and biological materials. All dry ice shipments must conform with IATA Packing Instruction 954 and require vented packaging to permit gas release.

The Electronic Air Waybill Resolution 672 (MeA) removes the requirement for a paper AWB. In 2010, IATA introduced an electronic air waybill (e-air waybill or e-AWB) that became the default contract of carriage for all air cargo shipments on January 1, 2019. The electronic contract of carriage is achieved through the interchange of electronic data (EDI) messages (FWB/XFWB, FSU/XFSU). The Multilateral e-AWB Agreement, IATA Resolution 672 (pdf), provides a single standard agreement that airlines and freight forwarders can sign once with IATA and start doing e-AWB with all other parties to the agreement.

An embargo is a governmental or regulatory restriction that prohibits or limits the transportation of certain goods to or from specific countries, entities, or individuals. Airlines must manage multiple types of embargoes including country restrictions, customs restrictions, aircraft limitations, and ground handling agent limitations, which can be temporary or permanent and may affect inbound, outbound, or transit movements. During the cargo acceptance process, ground handling personnel must verify that all embargoes and operational restrictions are applied to ensure shipments comply with current regulations. Embargoes serve various purposes including duty collection, consumer protection, and addressing security or political concerns.

Export Control is a comprehensive system of U.S. federal regulations that govern the export, reexport, and transfer of certain goods, technology, and technical data to protect national security interests. The system consists primarily of two regulatory frameworks: ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) covering defense-related articles and services, and EAR (Export Administration Regulations) regulating commercial and dual-use items that could have both civilian and military applications. Air cargo operators and freight forwarders must determine proper classification and obtain required export licenses before shipping controlled items, as violations can result in severe penalties including substantial fines and criminal charges. Jurisdiction must be determined first, as it dictates the applicable regulations and licensing body, making classification critical for determining licensing requirements and ensuring compliance with export regulations.

Express Cargo is air freight that receives guaranteed priority handling and expedited transport with faster delivery times compared to standard cargo services. Express shipments are guaranteed boarding priority over general freight, even on higher-demand routes. Priority rates for express cargo are typically 30-40% higher than standard air freight rates, making it among the most expensive air freight categories. Express cargo services often include money-back guarantees for on-time delivery and reduced acceptance cutoff times at airports.

FAP (Flown as Planned) is a Cargo iQ key performance indicator that measures the percentage of shipments flown within 12 hours of the booked or rebooked scheduled departure time in a given time period. It serves as a quality benchmark that enables airlines and freight forwarders to measure carrier performance reliability and identify areas for operational improvement. Cargo iQ has de-emphasized FAP in recent years, instead focusing on NFD (Notify for Delivery) as the primary KPI for measuring quality of service.

FDCA (Found Cargo) is a tracking status code indicating that cargo has arrived at a destination without proper accompanying documentation, electronic data transmission, or manifest entry. This status is reported when cargo arrives without any document, electronic data, or mention on flight manifest. The status alerts ground handling agents and cargo systems that physical freight is present but lacks the standard shipping paperwork or digital records needed for proper processing and release to consignees.

FFM (Freight Flight Manifest) is an IATA Cargo-IMP standard message that transmits airline flight manifest data. The FFM serves as the official message for flight manifest specifications in air cargo operations. The manifest description of goods in the FFM is limited to 15 characters and is extracted from the first 15 characters of the first line of the NG field in the associated FWB message. The current version is FFM/8, which was last updated in November 2013.

FHL (Freight House Listing) is an electronic message that contains a summary of a house air waybill, serving as the electronic replacement of a paper house AWB. Freight forwarders send FHL messages to carriers during consolidation shipments, transmitting house manifest data that lists all house waybills associated with a master AWB. The current standard is FHL version 4 in Cargo-IMP format, with an equivalent XFHL message in Cargo-XML format. Airlines generally accept FHLs with information for one house waybill per message, requiring multiple FHLs when consolidating several house bills under one master.

FIATA is a nongovernmental membership-based organization representing freight forwarders and logistics providers in some 150 countries. FIATA is recognized as representing the freight forwarding industry by many governmental organizations and private international organizations including the International Air Transport Association. Founded in Vienna, Austria on May 31, 1926, FIATA has created several documents and forms to establish uniform standards for use by freight forwarders worldwide. FIATA is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

FOH (Freight On Hand) is a status message indicating that the warehouse has received the shipment but it has not been fully processed yet. The Carrier or Ground Handler sends this FSU-FOH status message to the Freight Forwarder to acknowledge receipt of cargo at the origin warehouse. FOH serves as an intermediate tracking stage between cargo arrival and full acceptance for carriage. When receiving this message, it is advisable to check if everything is OK with the shipment processing.

Fragile cargo refers to shipments containing items that are susceptible to damage from normal handling, compression, vibration, or impact during air transportation. These shipments require enhanced security measures, special packaging, handling, and insurance to protect them from loss or damage. Fragile cargo must be marked with appropriate handling labels such as "Fragile" to ensure proper handling throughout the air cargo supply chain. Common examples include electronics, glassware, artwork, precision instruments, and other breakable items that need careful handling to prevent damage during air transport.

A freight forwarder is a logistics intermediary that organizes and coordinates the transportation of goods on behalf of shippers, acting as an agent between the shipper and various transportation carriers. Freight forwarders are an integral part of a sector that successfully transports goods worth $5.3 trillion every year by air. An IATA Cargo Agent is a freight forwarder accredited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), granting them the ability to work directly with airlines, issue air waybills (AWBs), and negotiate freight rates, while non-IATA forwarders operate without IATA accreditation and rely on IATA Cargo Agents or consolidators to book cargo space and issue AWBs.

A freight rate is the fee charged by airlines for the transportation of goods on their aircraft from one airport to another. Freight rates serve as the foundation for Air Waybill rating, calculation of special commodities charges, and airline interlining activities under the MITA convention. These standardized rates are openly accessible as General Cargo Rates (GCR) or TACT Rates, providing uniform pricing structures for air cargo operations. Freight rates cover airport-to-airport transportation only and exclude ancillary services such as customs clearance, pickup, delivery, terminal handling, or storage unless specifically indicated.

A freighter aircraft is a fixed-wing aircraft that is designed or converted for the carriage of cargo rather than passengers. These aircraft feature one or more large doors for loading cargo, reinforced floors, and attachment systems to secure cargo. Freighters can transport outsized or hazardous loads that passenger flights cannot and operate on dedicated schedules optimized for freight demand. Nearly all commercial cargo aircraft are either purpose-built dedicated freighters or converted from passenger aircraft (P2F conversions).

Frozen (−15°C and below) is a temperature classification for cargo that requires storage and transport at temperatures of −15°C or colder to maintain product integrity. This temperature range is commonly used for frozen materials including certain pharmaceuticals, biologics, vaccines, and frozen foods that would be compromised at higher temperatures. Shipments requiring frozen temperatures must be booked as time and temperature sensitive cargo and display the mandatory IATA Time and Temperature Sensitive Label indicating the specific transportation temperature range. Airlines and freight forwarders handle frozen cargo at temperatures typically ≤−18°C with validated packaging systems and specialized cold chain procedures.

FSU (Freight Status Update) is an IATA Cargo-IMP electronic message that communicates the current status of a shipment at various points during transport. Airlines send FSU messages as freight moves through the supply chain, with different subtypes describing specific events. The most critical FSU codes include RCS (Ready for Carriage) when freight is accepted and ready to ship, FOH (Freight On Hand) when cargo reaches a warehouse but is not fully processed, and DLV (Freight Delivered) when cargo reaches its final destination. FSU messages can be transmitted via CargoWing, SITA, or internet.

A fuel surcharge is an extra fee airlines add to tickets to cover the cost of jet fuel, commonly coded as YQ or YR in fare displays. It is a commercial charge, not a government tax or airport fee, allowing carriers to adjust pricing based on volatile fuel costs without constantly repricing base fares. If you look at the breakdown of the cost of many airline tickets, you'll find that a majority of the fare is often these surcharges, while the base fare may only be $1, or sometimes even less. In air cargo, it may also be labeled as BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor).

A fumigation certificate is a document that confirms that the cargo in question has undergone fumigation treatment. It indicates that the packaging materials or wood products have been properly fumigated to eliminate pests and other contaminants before they are shipped internationally. The certificate is crucial for complying with import regulations in many countries. The certificate provides details about the fumigation process, including the chemicals used, treatment duration, and date of fumigation.

The FWB (Freight Waybill Message) is the electronic equivalent to the master air waybill, containing the same information as the master AWB and transmitted using the IATA Cargo-IMP data interchange standard. Freight forwarders send FWB messages to carriers according to information provided by shippers, creating the shipment record for cargo operations. Current IATA requirements specify FWB version 16 or higher (or Cargo-XML equivalent). The FWB enables paperless air cargo operations and serves as the digital foundation for electronic AWB (e-AWB) processes.

General cargo are items that do not fall into the Special Cargo categories and that do not require any extra precautions or special handling during air transport. This category forms the foundation of air cargo operations, representing the broad majority of standard shipments that can be processed through normal freight handling procedures. General Cargo covers the broad majority of standard shipments. Special Cargo is the umbrella term for any shipment that requires conditions, handling, or documentation beyond standard freight procedures. General cargo must still meet all standard aviation safety requirements and proper packaging standards for air transport.

A General Rate Increase (GRI) is a pricing adjustment announced by a freight carrier that affects their base rates and applies to all shipments. In air freight, GRIs are adjustments applied to the base rate charged for shipping goods by air. These rate increases are typically a response to various factors, such as changes in operational costs, fuel prices, demand for shipping capacity, and market dynamics. These rate increases are usually announced in advance to shippers and their freight forwarders so that they can plan accordingly.

Good Distribution Practice (GDP) describes the minimum standards that wholesale distributors must meet to ensure medicines maintain their quality and integrity throughout the supply chain, from manufacturing facility to dispensing point. GDP encompasses the systematic controls, documentation, and quality management practices required to prevent product degradation, contamination, counterfeiting, or diversion during warehousing, transportation, and handling. It ensures that medicines are consistently stored, transported, and handled under suitable conditions, as required by regulators such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). IATA CEIV and ISO 21973 provide aligned frameworks that encompass or exceed pharmaceutical standards for air cargo operations.

A goods declaration is a formal document certifying that cargo has been packed, labeled and declared according to applicable regulations. It serves as essential documentation for legal compliance, cargo tracking, and acceptance at airports. The most common form in air cargo is the Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) for hazardous materials, though the term also encompasses general cargo declarations required by customs authorities. For dangerous goods shipments, the shipper's declaration must be completed for each consignment to certify compliance with IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.

Gross weight is the total weight of the goods as they are tendered for carriage. This includes not just the product itself, but all secondary materials such as shrink wrap, cardboard boxes, wooden pallets, and internal padding. In air freight, carriers price shipments using the greater of these two values: gross weight or volumetric weight. Gross weight focuses on the physical burden placed on the aircraft's engines and structure.

A ground handling agent is a service provider that performs ground handling operations for aircraft while parked at an airport terminal gate. Airlines often subcontract ground handling to airports, handling agents or even to other airlines. Ground handling agents perform cargo acceptance and handling functions, including verifying security clearance, conducting ready-for-carriage checks, and ensuring compliance with shipping requirements. The relationship between airlines and ground handling agents is typically governed by the IATA Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA), which outlines terms and conditions of contracted ground handling services.

A health certificate is a document that provides information about the health status of an animal being transported by air and is delivered by your veterinarian, stipulating that the animal is healthy and fit to fly. Most airlines require a health certificate for any animal they are transporting, whether in the cabin or as an unaccompanied shipment. The health certificate must include the issuing facility name or state/country, the veterinarian's address and contact information, as well as the licensed veterinarian's name and signature, and must be dated within 10 days of the animal's arrival at its destination. For international animal shipping of live animals, the minimum documents required by shippers are the Import Permit, Health Certification, and the Shipper's Certificate.

A House Air Waybill (HAWB) is a transport document issued by a freight forwarder to a shipper, serving as a contract of carriage and receipt of goods for individual shipments within consolidated air cargo. MAWBs have additional papers called house air waybills (HAWB), where each HAWB contains information of each individual shipment (consignee, contents, etc.) within the consolidation. House air waybill is signed by the forwarder and states the terms and conditions of carriage for the forwarder company's perspective, and does not contain actual carrier's carriage contract, as a result shipper stated on the house air waybill is not the direct participant of the carriage contract indicated on the master air waybill. The HAWB is issued by the freight forwarder to the shipper and may or may not follow IATA rules.

An HS Code is a standardized numerical method of classifying traded products developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO). It uses a six-digit code system to identify more than 5,000 commodity groups and is used by countries worldwide to uniformly identify products for assessing duties and gathering statistics. Air cargo shipments require HS codes on shipping documents to ensure uniform customs clearance and prevent delays. Individual countries expand the basic six-digit HS code to 8-10 digits for their national tariff systems, such as the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) which uses 10-digit codes.

Human remains are deceased bodies or cremated ashes transported as special air cargo under the booking code HUM. The CTM contains shipping guidelines for funeral operators, airlines and freight forwarders who are involved in the repatriation of human remains by air. Proper documentation relevant to each party in the supply chain, is needed when transporting human remains. This includes accurately filling out an Air Waybill and ensuring the necessary supporting documentation is provided. The IATA Guidelines on Handling of Human Remains can be found in the IATA Airport Handling Manual at page 149: AHM 333 Handling of Human Remains, or in the introduction of the IATA TACT (The Air Cargo Tariff).

IATA is the trade association for the world's airlines, representing approximately 85% of total air traffic. In air cargo operations, IATA standardizes processes and documentation, develops technical regulations for goods transport (including dangerous goods), and operates financial cooperation systems between airlines. Key cargo systems include the Cargo Accounts Settlement System (CASS), which simplifies billing and financial settlement between airlines and accredited cargo agents. IATA publishes the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) that set strict guidelines for transporting hazardous materials safely by air.

IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) is the comprehensive regulatory manual published annually by the International Air Transport Association for the safe transport of hazardous materials by air. The DGR helps airlines, shippers, and freight forwarders classify, mark, pack, label and document dangerous shipments in compliance with air transport regulations. Used by more than 200 airlines worldwide, the DGR is the only user manual for shipping dangerous goods by air recognized by the World's Airlines. The 66th edition incorporates all amendments from the ICAO Dangerous Goods Panel and changes adopted by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board.

The IATA Perishable Cargo Regulations (PCR) is a manual that serves as an essential reference guide for all parties involved in the packaging and handling of temperature-sensitive products. The PCR includes a comprehensive classification of hundreds of perishable commodities and the most up-to-date contact information and airline-specific rules regarding the transport of perishable cargo. The manual is endorsed by the IATA Live Animals and Perishables Board (LAPB) and underpinned by the expertise of major airlines and scientific data supplied by research institutions. Since the 16th edition, all pharmaceutical-related content was extracted from the PCR into the standalone Temperature Control Regulations (TCR) manual.

The IATA Temperature Control Regulations (TCR) is a comprehensive manual that provides standards and requirements for the transportation and handling of time and temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical and healthcare products by air cargo. The TCR enables compliant shipment of temperature-controlled cargo by providing up-to-date carrier and government regulations, packaging requirements, and documentation procedures that reduce losses and ensure product integrity. Currently in its 13th edition (2025), the TCR serves as the definitive resource for maintaining the integrity of temperature-sensitive shipments in the pharmaceutical industry. The 2025 edition includes specific business expectations in Chapter 17 for applying IATA Special Handling Codes and enhanced requirements for 24-hour emergency contact information on Air Waybills.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized United Nations agency responsible for establishing standards and recommended practices (SARPs) for international civil aviation and fostering the safe and orderly development of international air transport. ICAO manages over 12,000 SARPs across 19 Annexes and 5 PANS to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, many of which are constantly evolving. For air cargo operations, ICAO's Annex 18 establishes standards for the safe transport of dangerous goods by air, with detailed implementation through Technical Instructions that amplify the basic provisions. ICAO is distinct from other aviation organizations because it alone is vested with international authority among signatory states, unlike trade associations such as IATA.

An igloo is a curved or dome-shaped aircraft container that forms part of a Unit Load Device (ULD) system for air cargo transport. Igloos have a dome-shaped structure that allows them to fit efficiently into smaller spaces in aircraft holds. These containers are used primarily on freighter aircraft main decks, such as the AMJ igloo which measures 318cm × 224cm × 244cm and is compatible with B747F, B777F, and B767F aircraft. Igloos are commonly used for lightweight cargo requiring weather protection.

Import duty is a tax levied by customs authorities on goods imported into a country. It is paid immediately upon release to the importing country by the importer of record, who is responsible for filing the proper documentation required for the import. The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) provides duty rates for virtually every item that exists, setting out the tariff rates and statistical categories for all merchandise imported into the United States. Duty rates are product-specific, ranging from 0% to as high as 37.5%, with most everyday consumer goods falling between 2.5% and 6%.

An import license is a government-issued authorization document that permits the importation of specific goods into a country. Some countries may require an import license or permit for specific goods, obtained by the importer and necessary for customs clearance upon arrival at the destination. You may need an export/import license to move products by air out of/into a country, with determining requirements involving careful research and applications made through the appropriate government agency. Import licenses are typically required for controlled, restricted, or regulated commodities such as pharmaceuticals, firearms, agricultural products, or items subject to trade quotas.

Incoterms are a set of standards used in international and domestic contracts for the delivery of goods, recognized by UNCITRAL as the global standard for the interpretation of the most common terms in foreign trade. The 11 individual rules issued by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) define the responsibilities of sellers and buyers for the sale of goods in international transactions, clarifying the tasks, costs, and risks to be borne by buyers and sellers. In air cargo operations, commonly used terms include FCA (Free Carrier), highly recommended for air cargo shipments, and CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To) where the seller pays freight to the agreed destination. The current version is Incoterms 2020, published by the ICC and expected to be in effect for at least 10 years.

A known shipper is a TSA-approved status given to companies shipping air freight using the TSA's Known Shipper Management System. Known shippers can ship cargo on passenger aircraft departing from the United States, while unknown shippers are limited to cargo-only aircraft. Indirect air carriers must establish known shipper programs to determine shipper validity and integrity, and must separate known shipper cargo from unknown shipper cargo as required by 49 CFR 1548. Aircraft operators, foreign air carriers, and indirect air carriers must comply with specific security requirements to qualify their clients as known shippers.

An LD11 Container is a closed Unit Load Device (ULD) made of aluminum or a combination of aluminum frame and Lexan walls, designed for air cargo transport. It is a full width below deck container with canvas door, also available as a refrigerated version with solid door. An LD11 occupies the space of two LD3 containers and fits 787s, 777s, 747s, MD-11s, Il-86s, Il-96s, L-1011s and all Airbus wide-bodies. The LD11 has a maximum gross weight limit of 6,804 kg (AMP code), though some configurations are limited to 3,176 kg (7,002 lb) maximum gross weight.

The LD3 (AKE) container is a standardized, enclosed aircraft container designed to protect cargo during handling and flight. A lower deck container with half width and angled side with canvas or solid door. The LD3 measures 79 inches (2,007 mm) long, 60.4 inches (1,534 mm) wide, and 64 inches (1,626 mm) high with an operational maximum gross weight of 1,588 kg (3,500 lb). LD3 containers are the most versatile ULD type, fitting in the lower hold of most wide-body aircraft (B767, B777, A330, A350) and can also fit 787s, 777s, 747s, MD-11s, and all Airbus wide-bodies.

An LD7 Container is a Unit Load Device (ULD) identified by IATA code AAK (for containers) with dimensions of 88 inches by 125 inches (2,235 mm × 3,175 mm) base and various heights depending on application. LD7 containers fit Boeing 787s, 777s, 747s, late model 767s (with larger doors), Airbus wide-bodies, and are used on B747 and A380 main deck positions. The LD7 is a double-width container compared to the LD3 that can be used on the Boeing 777 and Boeing 787. LD7 containers have a maximum gross weight of 3,175 kg.

A Letter of Credit (LC), also known as documentary credit, is a banking instrument that provides a guarantee from a creditworthy bank that an exporter will receive payment from an importer, provided that the exporter presents specific, compliant shipping and trade documentation. It mitigates non-payment risks by substituting the bank's creditworthiness for that of the buyer and ensures strict adherence to contractual shipping terms through document verification. Letters of credit deal with documents rather than goods, meaning the bank need only be concerned with whether the document fulfills the requirements stipulated in the LC. Most letters of credit are governed by the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits (UCP600), created by the International Chamber of Commerce, with the current version UCP 600 becoming effective July 1, 2007.

Lithium batteries are Class 9 miscellaneous dangerous goods that include both lithium metal batteries (generally primary non-rechargeable) with lithium metal or compounds as an anode and lithium-ion batteries where lithium is present only in ionic form in the electrolyte, including lithium polymer batteries. They can be carried by air depending on configuration and Watt-hour rating for rechargeable or lithium content for non-rechargeable types. They are classified under UN 3090 (lithium metal), UN 3480 (lithium-ion), UN 3091 (lithium metal with/in equipment), or UN 3481 (lithium-ion with/in equipment), with strict transport regulations due to safety risks if not properly handled.

Live Animals Regulations (LAR) are the worldwide standard for transporting live animals by commercial airlines, maintained by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The LAR serves as the essential standard to ship animals in a safe, humane and cost-effective manner, whether it is a pet, an animal transported for zoological or agricultural purposes or for any other reason. The LAR covers animal transport of all kinds and contains comprehensive information about the requirements for protected and endangered species as lab animals, livestock and domestic animals, comprising a comprehensive classification of thousands of animal species along with the container specifications required for their transport. Live animals cannot be entered on the same Air Waybill as other items being shipped and require their own specific Air Waybill that includes a 24-hour emergency contact in the "Handling Information".

MAN (Manifested) is a tracking status code indicating that a shipment has been officially listed on the flight manifest for a specific flight. This status confirms the shipment's inclusion on the aircraft's cargo manifest document and represents a critical step in the air cargo process between booking confirmation and actual aircraft departure. The manifest serves as the official cargo record that must be presented to customs and regulatory authorities at both origin and destination airports.

A Master Air Waybill (MAWB) is a transport document issued and signed by an air cargo carrier or its authorized agent that evidences the terms and conditions of carriage between the shipper and the carrier for air freight transportation. The MAWB is issued directly by the airline to the freight forwarder that books cargo space and represents the overarching contract between the airline and the forwarder, covering the entire consolidated shipment that will be loaded onto the aircraft. The MAWB is subject to IATA Rules and international air conventions including the Warsaw Convention, Montreal Convention, and Hague Amendment. Unlike ocean bills of lading, the MAWB is a non-negotiable document that serves as a contract of carriage and cannot be transferred to another party.

Net Zero is an environmental commitment whereby an organization balances all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions produced with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere or offset through verified carbon reduction projects, resulting in a net carbon footprint of zero. At the 77th IATA Annual General Meeting in Boston, USA, on 4 October 2021, a resolution was passed by IATA member airlines committing them to achieving net-zero carbon emissions from their operations by 2050. As critical stakeholders in the industry's effort to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, shippers, freight forwarders, and solution providers across the air cargo industry need accurate CO2 emissions data to ensure better decision making and reporting compliance. Achieving net zero CO2 emissions by 2050 will require a combination of maximum elimination of emissions at the source, offsetting and carbon capture technologies.

NFD (Notified for Delivery) is a tracking status code indicating that the consignee or their agent has been officially notified that a shipment has arrived at its destination and is available for pickup. It represents the notification of readiness for delivery of cargo and serves as a key milestone in Cargo iQ quality measurement systems. The status is communicated through Cargo-IMP FSU (Freight Status Update) messages that notify interested parties of shipment status changes. NFD has become the primary benchmark for measuring carrier reliability and quality-of-service performance in air cargo operations.

Offload is the removal of cargo from an aircraft or from a confirmed booking when space, weight, or aircraft limitations prevent carriage on the originally scheduled flight. The process typically occurs when load planners determine that Unit Load Devices (ULDs) must be removed to comply with aircraft weight restrictions or capacity constraints. Cargo priority systems similar to passenger cabin classes determine which shipments are offloaded, with higher-priority cargo remaining on the aircraft. Offloaded cargo under a single Air Waybill is then transported on subsequent flights, creating split shipments.

OHD is a tracking status code indicating that an air cargo shipment has physically arrived at the destination airport or cargo terminal and is being held there awaiting further processing or pickup. This status signals that the shipment has completed its flight leg and is now in the custody of the destination ground handler or carrier facility. For shippers and freight forwarders, OHD represents a critical milestone as it confirms safe arrival but requires action to arrange customs clearance, ground handling, or final delivery to complete the transportation process.

ONE Record is a standard for data sharing that creates a single record view of the shipment. This IATA standard defines a common data model for data that is shared via standardized and secured web APIs. The IATA Cargo Services Conference endorsed ONE Record as the preferred standard for data sharing among air cargo stakeholders as of January 1, 2026. The standard includes three specifications: a data model using JSON-LD format, an API specification for system connectivity, and a security specification using a federated trust network.

Oversized cargo is air freight that exceeds standard ULD dimensions or requires special handling procedures. It typically includes machinery exceeding 163 cm height limits, requiring freighter main decks or partial disassembly. Standard cargo dimensions are classified as Grade A (length + width + height ≤ 420cm, single side ≤ 300cm), while Grade B oversized cargo has single side dimensions of 300-500cm. Most wide-body passenger aircraft have maximum cargo hold heights of 160 cm, so cargo exceeding this must be booked on dedicated freighters at higher costs.

The PMC (also known as P6P) pallet ranks among the most widely used ULD bases in global air cargo. Its versatile footprint and strong aluminum build make it ideal for cartons, e-commerce freight, machinery, crated goods, and consolidated pallet loads. Airlines rely on the PMC pallet across both lower-deck and main-deck aircraft positions, giving it universal compatibility across major wide-body fleets. The pallet measures 317.5 cm (125 inches) length by 242.8 cm (96 inches) width with a tare weight of 120 kg and maximum gross weights ranging from 4,626 kg on lower decks to 6,800 kg on main decks depending on aircraft type.

Packing Instructions (PI) are IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) specifications that provide detailed requirements for packaging, marking, labeling, and quantity limits for each dangerous good acceptable for air transport. Each substance in the IATA dangerous goods table is assigned a specific PI number found in Table 4.2, such as PI965 for lithium-ion batteries or PI353 for paint in Packing Group II. The most commonly referenced PIs are PI965-970, which govern lithium battery shipments with specific sections (IA, IB, or II) that determine packaging requirements, weight limits, and aircraft restrictions based on battery type and energy content. Most packing instructions require UN performance-tested specification packaging, except when shipping in Limited Quantities under Y-designated PIs.

A packing list is a detailed document that itemizes the contents, quantities, weights, and dimensions of each package within an air cargo shipment. It provides a detailed breakdown of the contents of each package within the shipment and helps customs identify goods and ensure they are stored correctly. The document assists customs officials in conducting inspections and assessments, helping to streamline the customs clearance process by providing transparency regarding the contents of the shipment. Packing lists include value, HS codes, weights and contents, and are required alongside commercial invoices for air freight customs processing.

Passive packaging is an insulated container or enclosure that maintains temperature-controlled environments using pre-conditioned coolants such as gel packs, phase change materials, or dry ice, without any active temperature control systems. These systems rely on insulated containers to maintain temperature through finite amounts of coolants rather than electrical or mechanical refrigeration. Passive containers are typically designed to maintain specific temperatures for payload capacity over specified time periods up to 96 hours. When dry ice is used as coolant, IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations require that ice or dry ice be placed outside secondary packagings and that packaging permit gas release to prevent pressure buildup.

A Peak Season Surcharge is a temporary fee added by air carriers during high-demand shipping periods to offset increased operational pressures. It's applied on top of standard freight rates and is meant to offset the increased operational costs carriers face when vessels, equipment, and space are in short supply. When demand exceeds available aircraft space, surcharges help prioritize urgent shipments while offsetting increased fuel and labor costs from extra staffing and overtime required to meet peak demand. Peak season typically runs from late summer through early winter (August to December), when air freight drives tight capacity and elevated rates through year end.

Perishables are goods such as fruits, flowers, and vegetables that deteriorate over time and under extreme temperatures and humidity conditions. These goods must be handled with particular care and require fast and safe delivery to maintain quality and effectiveness. Fast, reliable perishable shipping is the backbone of the food and flower businesses, with sensitive products like seafood or exotic houseplants requiring appropriate handling and transportation to maintain shipment integrity. The transportation of perishables is governed by the IATA Perishable Cargo Regulations (PCR) manual, which is endorsed by the IATA Live Animals and Perishables Board (LAPB).

A phytosanitary certificate is an official document required when shipping regulated articles such as plants, plant products or other regulated articles that certifies they are free from pests and diseases. It can only be issued by an authorized officer from a government department that is authorized by a National Plant Protection Agency (NPPO). The phytosanitary certificate is an original document that accompanies the consignment and is presented to the relevant officials upon arrival in the importing country. The aircraft's flight number may be included if known.

Piece count is the total number of individual packages, cartons, pallets, or other shipping units that comprise an air cargo consignment. It appears on the Air Waybill (AWB) as critical shipment information that carriers use for loading, handling, and space allocation. The piece count helps carriers plan loading, unloading, and space allocation, and is distinct from the internal contents within each piece. For shipments with multiple items inside packages, any internal piece counts (also known as Shipper Load and Count or SLAC) must be separately expressed on shipping documents.

A PMC pallet is a standardized aluminum aircraft cargo pallet measuring 96 inches by 125 inches (244 cm x 318 cm). PMC pallets are widely used in air cargo operations for their strength, standardized dimensions, and compatibility with wide-body aircraft including Boeing 747, 777, 787, Airbus A300, A330, A340, and MD-11 aircraft. The pallet has a maximum gross weight capacity of 6,800 kg (15,000 lb) on main deck positions and lower weight limits on lower deck positions depending on the aircraft type. PMC pallets use IATA ULD codes including P1P and P6P, where the "P" prefix indicates a certified pallet.

PRE is a tracking status indicating that cargo has been prepared and made ready for loading onto an aircraft. It confirms that all pre-loading activities, including documentation verification, security screening, and physical preparation, have been completed. This status appears in the shipment lifecycle after acceptance but before the cargo is actually loaded onto the aircraft, allowing carriers to efficiently manage loading schedules and provide shippers with visibility into their cargo's readiness state.

RCF is an IATA status code that indicates a consignment has been physically received from a given flight or surface transport of the carrier. The status is used in cargo tracking systems to mark the milestone when cargo has been received from flight operations. The FSU RCF message is sent when cargo is received into warehouses with a Dispatch Zone usage type. RCF target times may vary by commodity and location.

RCS stands for 'Received from Shipper' and means the airline has taken possession of the goods and the shipping contract is active. This tracking status indicates that freight was accepted by the airline and is ready to be shipped, representing the equivalent to a Cargo Receipt when using eAWB. The FSU RCS message in accordance to IATA shows that consignment physically received from a shipper or an agent.

Refrigerated (2–8°C) is a temperature-controlled pharmaceutical shipping classification that requires products to be maintained between 2 degrees Celsius and 8 degrees Celsius throughout air transport. This temperature range is critical for maintaining the effectiveness of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, particularly vaccines and biologics, during air cargo operations. Shipments classified as Refrigerated (2–8°C) must display IATA Time and Temperature Sensitive labels showing the required temperature range and follow IATA Temperature Control Regulations (TCR) standards. Since July 2013, these shipments require completion of the IATA Standard Acceptance Checklist at carrier acceptance points.

A regulated agent is a freight forwarder, ground handling agent, or other air cargo entity that has been validated by aviation security authorities to apply appropriate security controls to cargo shipments. These entities are authorized to screen cargo, accept shipments from known consignors, and issue consignment security declarations that ensure cargo remains secure throughout the supply chain. Regulated agents maintain audit trails documenting how, when, and by whom cargo has been secured, providing aircraft operators with the necessary security documentation required by ICAO regulations. In the European Union, regulated agents in third countries require independent validation as of July 2014 to maintain their authorization status.

SAF is a liquid fuel produced from non-petroleum feedstocks such as waste oil, non-food crops, and municipal waste that reduces CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional aviation fuel. SAF must have the same qualities and characteristics as conventional jet fuel and is entirely fungible with conventional kerosene requiring no adaptation of engines or associated delivery infrastructure. SAF can be blended at different levels with limits between 10% and 50%, depending on the feedstock and production pathway, with most approved pathways allowing up to 50% maximum blend ratios. SAF must meet ASTM D7566 specification requirements prior to blending with conventional Jet A fuel, after which the blended fuel is redesignated as meeting ASTM D1655 standard.

A security surcharge is a mandatory fee imposed by International Air Transport Association (IATA) member airlines in response to escalating global security threats, covering the costs of cargo screening, X-ray inspections, and regulatory compliance. The surcharge uses IATA charge codes SCC or SEC and covers regulated cargo screening, X-ray, and explosive detection device (EDD) checks. It is typically calculated based on cargo weight or volume, charged per kilogram (such as $0.15/kg), or as a fixed fee per shipment (such as $25/shipment). Security surcharges combined with fuel surcharges can add $0.80 to $2.50 per kg on top of base rates, sometimes more on long-haul intercontinental segments.

A shipper is the person whose name appears on the air waybill or shipment record, as the party contracting with carrier for the carriage of cargo. The shipper is in initial possession of the consignment and readies the packages for pickup by the freight forwarder. The shipper is responsible for booking and planning the cargo shipments and for preparing forms certifying that cargo has been packed, labeled and declared according with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) when shipping dangerous goods.

A Shipper's Letter of Instruction is a document provided by the exporter to their freight forwarder that provides transportation and documentation instructions for a shipment. It acts as the primary authorization for the forwarder to act on the shipper's behalf, particularly concerning the filing of Electronic Export Information (EEI) to the Automated Export System (AES). Modern digital air cargo processes, including the e-AWB (Electronic Air Waybill), rely heavily on the data provided in the SLI. An SLI for air shipments typically includes specific IATA-related data, such as airport codes, cargo type, and necessary declarations for dangerous goods.

Special Cargo is the umbrella term for any shipment that requires conditions, handling, or documentation beyond standard freight procedures. The transport of these goods are addressed through specific regulations that must be followed when preparing, offering, accepting and handling this cargo. Special Cargo items include live animals, perishables, wet cargo, time and temperature sensitive products and human remains, among others, which due to their nature, weight, dimensions and/or value, may have specific requirements including packaging, labeling, documentation and handling through the transport chain. IATA's Special Cargo manuals provide expert guidance on shipping live animals, perishables, temperature-sensitive goods, and human remains.

Special Handling Codes (SHC) are standardized three-letter IATA codes that identify specific handling requirements for air cargo shipments. Each code is assigned to a specific UN classification and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulation class to clearly communicate the handling requirements for regulated cargo types. There are over 50 codes listed that cover live animals, perishable goods, valuables, weapons, batteries, explosives, radioactive and dangerous materials. These codes ensure cargo personnel understand specific temperature, safety, or documentation requirements before handling shipments.

A spot rate is a pricing structure offered for a specific air cargo shipment on a specific flight, negotiated based on available capacity. Spot rates allow airlines to provide dynamic pricing based on different criteria such as capacity, relationship, and priorities. The actual rate paid by a freight forwarder to an airline may differ from published tariffs, and spot rates are bilaterally agreed and remain confidential. Spot rates are often used when carriers offer shorter-term promotional rates or specific rates for individual shipments, with capacity at the time of booking driving the tariff offered.

TACT (The Air Cargo Tariff) is an air freight rate manual published by the International Air Transport Association that consists of three parts: TACT Rules, North American rates, and global rates. It is used by more than 70,000 air cargo professionals on a daily basis to access standardized tariffs, rates, regulations, and compliance information. With over 5 million tariffs and rates updated in real time, 85+ airlines, 200+ countries and a network of 800+ individual sources, TACT eliminates inconsistencies in airline rate manuals and provides uniform pricing references for the global air cargo industry. TACT maintains its relevance through regular updates—TACT Rates receive bimonthly revisions, while TACT Rules undergo updates every April and December.

A temperature excursion is an event in which a time and temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical product is exposed to temperatures outside the range(s) prescribed for storage and/or transport. Temperature excursions can occur at any point in the air cargo cold chain, from origin handling through final delivery, and require immediate investigation and risk assessment. Tarmac exposure during loading and unloading accounts for majority of excursions, with extended time in uncontrolled outdoor conditions during hot or cold weather causing most documented deviations. The IATA Temperature Control Regulations (TCR) addresses temperature management issues identified by the industry, requiring carriers and handlers to implement corrective and preventive actions when excursions occur.

Terminal Handling Charge (THC) is a fee levied by airport terminal operators or ground handling agents for cargo handling services at air cargo terminals. It covers the costs of loading, unloading, and moving goods within the airport premises at both origin and destination airports. THC is not included in standard air cargo tariffs and is charged separately from the airline's freight rate, covering services such as cargo sorting, security screening, temporary storage, and documentation processing.

Third-Party Logistics (3PL) is an organization's outsourcing of its distribution services to third-party logistics businesses that specialize in integrated operations of warehousing and transportation services. A 3PL manages supply chain operations on behalf of businesses across different sectors, handling functions that include freight brokerage, warehousing, inventory management, order fulfillment, and customs clearance. In air cargo operations, transportation-based 3PLs specialize in managing air freight functions and oversee the booking and coordination of air cargo, while they handle customs paperwork and clearances, reducing delays. 3PL providers typically have a large network of carriers (air, ground, and ocean) which are located all throughout the state, country, or region of the globe.

Through Cargo is air cargo that transits through an intermediate airport or country without clearing customs at that location before continuing to its final destination. This type of cargo enables airlines to consolidate shipments at hub airports and optimize route networks by connecting origin and destination markets through strategic intermediate transfer points. Shippers benefit from expanded routing options and potentially lower costs compared to direct flights, while carriers can maximize aircraft utilization and serve markets that would not support direct service.

TIACA is a not-for-profit international trade association representing and uniting all segments of the global air cargo community. TIACA lobbies governments and regulators, provides valuable networking opportunities, organizes and hosts leading industry events, and gives guidance, advice, and specialist career development training for members. Its membership includes aircraft manufacturers, airports, all-cargo airlines, combination carriers, consultants, customs brokers, educational institutions, equipment manufacturers, general sales agents, ground handlers, freight forwarders, integrators, IT systems providers, logistics companies, road carriers, shippers, and screening technology developers. TIACA hosts two major events, the biennial Air Cargo Forum and the biennial Executive Summit, as well as organizing training and career development programs.

Transfer Cargo is cargo arriving at a point by one carrier and continuing its journey from there by another carrier. This interline arrangement enables airlines to extend their service networks beyond their own routes through commercial agreements that spell out the basic rules for collecting money and issuing documents for carriage on each other's services. The transfer process requires execution of a Transfer Manifest (TRM) by the transferring carrier and endorsement by the receiving carrier as receipt for the consignment transferred.

A Transfer Manifest (TRM) is the document executed by the transferring carrier upon transfer of interline cargo and endorsed by the receiving carrier as a receipt for the consignment transferred. It serves as the formal documentation when shipments move between different airlines during interline operations. The TRM ensures accurate tracking and custody transfer while establishing legal receipt between carriers at connecting cargo terminals.

A transferring carrier is the participating carrier transferring the consignment to another carrier at a transit point in an interline arrangement. The transferring carrier physically hands off cargo to the receiving carrier, typically at an intermediate airport or hub, while maintaining responsibility for proper documentation and transfer procedures. The document executed by the transferring carrier upon transfer of interline cargo and endorsed by the receiving carrier as a receipt for the consignment transferred creates an official record of the handoff between carriers.

Transhipment is the process where cargo is discharged at an intermediate airport with the intention of being loaded onto another aircraft for onward carriage to its final destination. The cargo is moved from one aircraft to another at a hub airport, while the container or unit load device stays sealed during the transfer. Transhipment enables airlines to connect routes that lack direct service and allows cargo to reach destinations via major hub airports rather than requiring point-to-point flights. Compliance with government restrictions is critical for an air cargo shipment to be exported, imported or transshipped.

TRM — Transferred is a tracking status code indicating that a shipment has been officially transferred from one carrier or handling party to another during the air cargo transportation chain. This status appears in cargo tracking systems when custody of the shipment changes hands, such as from an originating airline to a partner carrier for onward transport, or from a carrier to a ground handling agent. The transfer typically involves physical handover of the cargo along with accompanying documentation and responsibility for the shipment's continued movement to its final destination.

ULD Control is the management system and messaging protocol used by airlines and ground service providers to track and control the location, status, and movement of Unit Load Devices (ULDs) throughout the global air cargo network. It operates primarily through standardized IATA messaging formats including the ULD Control Message (UCM) and ULD Control Receipt (UCR) to provide real-time inventory visibility and transfer documentation. Airlines maintain ULD control departments responsible for managing these valuable assets worth over USD 1 billion globally, ensuring proper accountability when ULDs move between carriers, ground handlers, freight forwarders, and other third parties.

A Unit Load Device (ULD) is either an aircraft pallet and pallet net combination, or an aircraft container. It allows preloading of cargo, provided the containerised load fits in the aircraft, enabling efficient planning of aircraft weight and balance and reduced labour and time in loading aircraft holds compared with 'bulk-loading' single items of cargo or luggage by hand. ULDs are removable aircraft parts subject to strict civil aviation authorities' requirements from design, testing, production, and operations, to repair and maintenance. An airworthy ULD must be structurally capable of restraining the loads and providing adequate protection to the aircraft systems and structure during flight. All ULDs are identified by their ULD number: a three-letter prefix identifies its type and key characteristics, followed by a 4 or 5 digit serial number to uniquely identify it from others of the same type, and ending with a two character suffix identifying the ULD's owner (if an airline, often the same as IATA designator codes).

Valuable Cargo (VAL) is cargo defined by IATA as goods valued at over $1,000 USD per kilogram (or equivalent, such as GBP 450 per kilogram in the United Kingdom). It requires secured transportation chain from acceptance to delivery under specific security measures in accordance with local regulations at origin and destination. All valuable cargo shipments must use the special handling code 'VAL' in documentation and handling instructions. Due to special handling requirements, VAL shipments are limited to a maximum of 50 kg per piece to ensure smooth handling and storage.

Volumetric weight is a calculated weight based on the dimensions of air cargo shipments, used to determine chargeable weight when cargo occupies significant space relative to its actual weight. Airlines use the higher of actual weight (gross weight) or volumetric weight for billing, with IATA's standard formula being (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 6,000. The divisor of 6,000 is the industry standard set by IATA to ensure fairness across airlines. This system prevents airlines from losing revenue on lightweight but bulky shipments that consume valuable cargo hold space.

The WCO is an intergovernmental organization headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, established in 1952 as the Customs Co-operation Council (CCC) that facilitates global trade, security, and customs compliance among its 185 member countries. The WCO works on customs-related matters including commodity classification, valuation, rules of origin, supply chain security, international trade facilitation, customs enforcement activities, and maintains the international Harmonized System (HS) goods nomenclature. The organization collaborates with ICAO on air cargo security initiatives, including the development of Pre-loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) standards that require airlines and freight forwarders to submit a specific 7+1 data set before cargo loading to identify potential security threats.

Wet Cargo (WET) is cargo containing liquids or from which liquids may ooze out because of their nature, excluding dangerous goods. This special cargo category requires specific handling requirements including packaging, labeling, documentation and handling through the transport chain. Packaging must be secure and capable of maintaining the shipment in a totally leak-proof condition, allowing for variations in atmospheric pressure and rapid changes in temperature. Standard IATA labeling requires "wet cargo" labels on packaging along with orientation markers like "this way up."

X-ray screening is a cargo security procedure that uses high-energy X-ray technology to create visual images of air freight shipments, enabling trained operators to identify prohibited items, explosives, weapons, or other security threats without opening packages. This procedure is required by aviation and customs officials worldwide to prevent the shipment of weapons, explosives, or contraband. TSA requires 100% of cargo transported on passenger aircraft to be screened at a level of security commensurate with the level of security for the screening of passenger checked baggage, using approved screening methods. For air cargo, the x-ray machines are much bigger and more powerful than the typical ones at passenger security.