The USA has been the UK’s biggest trading partner for years, with billions of pounds worth of goods crossing the Atlantic every year. And many of them are moving via air freight. It’s by far the fastest way to move cargo between the two countries. But it’s not always the easiest to get to grips with because there are so many moving parts involved. So, how can you make the most of air freight’s potential while still avoiding the pitfalls?
Simplifying Air Freight Between the UK and USA
Why businesses choose air freight to the USA
Most exporters choose air freight for speed, security, and reliability. Whether you’re moving urgent stock, perishables, or high-value goods, a fast air freight service removes delays and improves supply chain efficiency. Direct flights from London airports into the USA reduce transit times and minimise handling points, while improving visibility. Both exporters and their customers can monitor progress throughout the journey, which can be a real customer service bonus.
Understanding door-to-door air freight shipping
Where the trouble lies is that shipping goods internationally involves far more than simply booking cargo space on an aircraft. True door-to-door shipping includes collection, export handling, customs clearance, airline coordination, import processing, and final delivery once the freight lands in the USA.
At Plexus Freight, shipments are typically collected directly from the customer’s premises before being transported to Heathrow or Gatwick for export. Once the cargo arrives in the United States, our trusted local partners take over the final stages of the journey, ensuring goods are cleared through customs and delivered safely to their final destination.
It’s a comprehensive end-to-end service that ensures that all considerations are met.
DDP vs EXW: Choosing the right Incoterms
If you are going to ship goods internationally, you need to understand Incoterms, the internationally recognised trade terms that define who is responsible for costs, risks, and customs obligations. The two commonly used Incoterms for UK-USA air freight are Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) and Ex Works (EXW).
With DDP, the seller takes responsibility for almost the entire shipment process, including customs duties, taxes, and final delivery costs in the USA. It’s more expensive, but you have more control.
Under Ex Works terms, the buyer assumes responsibility from the point the goods are collected from the seller’s premises. This is a cheaper option for exporters and lessens your responsibility. But it does mean that you relinquish all control of your shipment once it leaves the UK. The right Incoterm for you usually comes down to the relationship between you and your buyer. An experienced freight forwarder can guide you through the process.
Managing air freight costs
Air freight will always be more expensive than sea freight. But when it enhances customer retention and reduces warehousing expenses, it can bring its own value. Costs can also be mitigated by the air services you choose; priority air freight will always be more expensive than deferred. So, if you can plan ahead and avoid urgent shipments, it becomes more cost-effective. Avoiding peak demand periods can also be useful. As can consolidating shipments.
The value of an experienced freight partner
Shipping goods between the UK and the USA doesn’t have to be complicated. At Plexus Freight, we combine industry expertise with strong international partnerships to help businesses move cargo quickly and efficiently.
So, whether you need a fast air freight service for urgent shipments or ongoing support with regular exports, it’s worth remembering that having the right logistics partner can make the entire process considerably easier.
If you need support with your company’s air freight requirements, get in touch with Plexus Freight.
