Air freight is generally seen as the fastest but most expensive way to move goods internationally. And this makes it inaccessible for many small and medium-sized businesses. But it needn’t be. Consolidated, or “CONSOL”, air freight provides a fast, but still affordable option. So, what exactly is it, and how can it benefit your business?
Understanding CONSOL Air Freight for Small Businesses
What is CONSOL air freight?
A CONSOL air freight shipment is essentially the air equivalent of groupage. Smaller consignments from different exporters are consolidated into one larger shipment. So, instead of each business paying for a full pallet or Unit Load Device (ULD), a freight forwarder will group their goods together under a single Master Air Waybill (MAWB). Which means that you only pay for the space you need.
How consolidation works
The process begins when several exporters each have smaller shipments ready to go. When sent individually, the price can be prohibitive for smaller businesses. But when consolidated into a larger load by a freight forwarder, it can be built into a single shipment and assigned one MAWB, immediately reducing fees.
Each individual shipment still has its own documentation (a House Air Waybill), but they all travel together, making them easier to handle and process, while allowing the operator to maximise cargo space.
Once the shipment arrives, the freight forwarder will deconsolidate it, and each consignment is delivered to its intended destination.
Why CONSOL reduces air freight costs
One of the biggest advantages of CONSOL shipments is cost. Airlines charge for freight based on space and weight, and smaller shipments often fall into higher rate brackets when shipped individually. When you consolidate freight, you share those fees with other shippers, which obviously brings the price down.
Additionally, consolidation helps reduce indirect costs. With fewer individual shipments moving through the system, there is less handling, fewer documentation errors, and a lower risk of delays. All of which can impact your bottom line.
Access to a fast air freight service
Speed is the main reason most businesses choose air freight in the UK. And that’s the benefit of CONSOL shipments. They’re still fast, especially when compared to sea freight, but they have a more accessible price point. Although, it must be said, that you still need to factor in coordination time. So, priority air freight will still move more quickly, but you still gain a significant improvement in transit time.
Ideal for growing businesses
CONSOL air freight is particularly beneficial for growing businesses that don’t yet have the volume to justify dedicated shipments. It allows companies to grow their logistics operations without too much expense.
As your export volumes increase, you can continue using consolidation until it becomes viable to move to full-load shipments. In the meantime, you benefit from competitive air freight costs and professional logistics management.
Air freight doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Consolidation offers a practical middle ground. It’s fast and reliable, but it’s not going to break the bank. Making it one of the most efficient and popular freight solutions.
Are you interested in CONSOL air freight shipping? Get in touch to find out how Plexus Freight can help.
