Operational Workflow for International Air Freight Import/Export Cargo in Airport Warehouses

I. Export Cargo Workflow

1. Cargo Receiving and Warehousing

   • Self-Delivery or Pickup: Shippers deliver goods to designated warehouses based on forwarder instructions or arrange pickup via freight trucks.
   • Verification: Warehouse staff check cargo quantity, weight, packaging consistency with shipping documents, inspect for damage/leakage, and record discrepancies.

2. Weight and Volume Calculation

   • Data Confirmation: Goods are weighed, and volume is calculated (airfreight chargeable weight = volume/0.006 or volume × 167 KG). Data is shared with shippers for approval.

3. Labeling and Sorting

   • MAWB/HAWB Tags: Attach Master Air Waybill (MAWB) and House Air Waybill (HAWB) labels, indicating destination, quantity, batch number. Hazardous goods require additional markings.

4. Customs Declaration and Documentation

   • Submission: Shippers provide commercial invoices, packing lists, and customs authorization. Forwarders submit declarations via electronic customs systems.
   • Inspection: Random or targeted customs inspections occur; cleared goods receive customs release stamps.

5. Security Screening and Loading Preparation

   • X-Ray Check: All cargo undergoes security screening. Special approvals (e.g., for liquids, batteries) are verified.
   • Palletization/Containerization: Goods are packed into ULDs (Unit Load Devices) according to aircraft specifications (e.g., height limits for pallets).

6. Handover and Flight Monitoring

   • Cargo Transfer: Finalize documentation and physical handover to airlines. Track flight status and address delays or cancellations.

II. Import Cargo Workflow

1. Unloading and Tallying

   • Cargo Discharge: Goods are transferred to bonded warehouses post-arrival. Verify MAWB details and inspect for damage.

2. Customs Clearance and Documentation

   • Pre-Arrival Filing: Airlines submit advance cargo manifests to customs. Customs reviews and approves entries.
   • HAWB Breakdown: Split consolidated shipments into individual consignee lots and update tracking systems.

3. Warehouse Management

   • Categorized Storage: Segregate goods by type (e.g., temperature-sensitive, hazardous). Track locations and conduct regular audits.

4. Customs Release and Pickup

   • Import Declaration: Submit import declarations, tax forms, and certificates. Pay duties/taxes to secure customs clearance.
   • Payment Settlement: Settle freight charges, storage fees, and taxes. Retrieve goods with release documents.

5. Last-Mile Delivery

• Door-to-Door Service: Arrange final delivery to consignees and confirm receipt.

6. Core Value Proposition

   • Efficiency & Safety: Minimize delays and damage through standardized processes (e.g., pallet dimension controls, temperature monitoring).
   • Compliance: Ensure adherence to customs rules (e.g., HS codes, certificates of origin) and hazardous material protocols.
   • Digital Tracking: Real-time inventory updates and shipment visibility via warehouse management systems.