Air freight consolidation

Definition

A forwarder groups compatible house shipments for a trade lane and departure. The total load is normally carried by the airline under a Master Air Waybill, while individual customer shipments retain their House Air Waybill references.

Why does it matter?

Consolidation can use capacity and cost efficiently. Cut-off times, document allocation, cargo compatibility and breakdown at destination also affect transit time.

Key points

• Shipments must be compatible in route, schedule and handling.
• Dangerous or sensitive goods may require special separation.
• Transit time includes build-up and breakdown of the consolidation.

Practical example

Several export shipments for Chicago are collected in Frankfurt, booked together and separated by the destination agent for their individual consignees after arrival.

Common mistakes

• Confusing consolidation cut-off with flight departure time
• Failing to identify incompatible or sensitive goods
• Communicating only the master reference to the consignee