There was a notable increase in Air Cargo volumes out of Central and South America throughout April – ahead of Mothers Day Celebrations in North America.
These increases included an increase of 17% on week 17, and that was following the increase of 14% from week 16 with the largest increase was to the US and Canada – a volume increase of 48%.
Why has there been an increase in Air Freight?
“Although around 90 countries or territories around the world celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May, North America is by far the most important destination market for flowers shipped by air from CSA,” WorldACD said.
“The spike in CSA to North America tonnages was also accompanied by a 12% rise in rates (two weeks on two weeks) – the only significant rates rise among any of the main intercontinental lanes measured by WorldACD’s data. And that drove up total air export rates from CSA by 6%.”
These increases essentially wiped out the week on week declines caused by the previous holiday periods like Easter and Eid.
However this upward trend in Air Cargo volume wasn’t limited to only Central and South America. International Air Cargo volume increased in January by 18.2% compared to January 2023, and March saw increased Air Cargo tonnages from Dubai to Europe throughout the whole first quarter.
There are actually several factors which have added to these increases.
The main cause for increased demand in Air Cargo shipping was to avoid the elongated shipping times. There was also some uncertainty with the reliability or safety of container goods, but the resilience and security has since returned to previous levels.
However, as forwarders and shippers have adapted to the longer times, and security being more assured, this has not significantly impacted the demand for Air Cargo.
There has also been a notable uptick in e-commerce, which has had a knock on effect.
One notable factor has been the increase in belly capacity. With the greater availability, this has led to further cargo being shipped.
What is the future of Air Freight?
It appears that these trends will likely continue, but with some changes.
One of the key trends in the future of air cargo is a shift towards sustainability, with a commitment to a more environmentally conscious approach to logistics.
With this upward trend in air freight, and the need for new environmental considerations, there has been no better time to consider your own shipping practices and whether you are using the best methods for you. Contact us to discuss your freight and shipping needs. Whether you are shipping internationally and require air or sea freight, or you are transporting goods within the UK and Europe by road, we have many options.
