The difference between international express and international air transport

International express and international air transport are two different international logistics methods, each with unique characteristics and applicable scenarios. The following are the main differences between them:

1. Applicable objects and weight limits

International express: mainly suitable for small batches of goods, usually with a weight limit of less than 45 kg (but some express companies may allow heavier goods to be sent, but the cost may not be cost-effective). It is very suitable for the rapid transportation of documents, samples and small goods.

International air transport: more suitable for large quantities and heavy goods, usually weighing more than 45 kg. It is an indispensable way to transport valuables, fresh goods and precision instruments in international trade, especially for the rapid delivery of urgently needed goods.

2. Transport subject

International express: transported by major international express companies such as China Post EMS, DHL, TNT, UPS United Parcel, FEDEX Federal Express, etc.

International air transport: mainly carried by major airlines and freight companies, such as Air China, Singapore Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Northwest Airlines, etc.

3. Delivery and service content

International express: Provide door-to-door service, including door-to-door pickup, customs declaration, customs clearance and delivery. It provides great convenience to customers, saving customers the time and energy to handle these cumbersome procedures by themselves.

International air transport: Usually an airport-to-airport service, the shipper needs to deliver the goods to the airport by himself, and the consignee or his agent picks up the goods at the destination airport warehouse, clears customs and picks up the goods. However, some freight companies also provide air-plus-delivery services, that is, the goods are delivered to the airport and then delivered with the designated logistics vehicle.

4. Transportation time

International express: Usually has a faster transportation time, and it can arrive in 3-5 days under normal circumstances. This is due to the express company's perfect global network and efficient transportation process.

International air transport: The transportation time depends on the flight arrangement, space and customs clearance speed of the destination. Direct flights may arrive within one day, while transit flights may take 2-4 days. However, in general, international air transport has won a considerable market with its fast, safe and punctual efficiency.

5. Cargo tracking and inquiry

International express: Customers can easily track and inquire about the actual route and status of goods on the express company website through the waybill number provided by the international express company.

International air transport: Customers usually need to use the bill of lading number to inquire on the airline website, or through the freight company's own website. In contrast, international express cargo tracking is more convenient and intuitive.

6. Documents and customs declaration methods

International air transport: Usually, it is necessary to provide customs clearance documents such as the agent customs declaration letter, export customs declaration documents, invoices, packing lists and certificates of origin, and each shipment basically requires formal customs declaration.

International express: It usually uses the express customs declaration channel, and the customs declaration procedures are simpler. It allows many goods to be declared together, and only one invoice is required. Special goods may also require other supporting documents.

7. Claim method

International air transport: If cargo damage or loss occurs, it is necessary to trace whether it is the carrier's responsibility or the agent's responsibility. Regardless of which party is responsible, compensation is generally made in accordance with the terms of the Warsaw Convention, that is, compensation is made in accordance with the terms on the back of the master airway bill and the house airway bill. The amount of compensation is usually calculated based on the chargeable weight of the goods.

International express delivery: If the recipient finds problems such as damaged packaging and missing goods, he or she may refuse to sign. Customers can provide feedback or file a claim in writing to the shipper and the express company in the destination country within one month from the date of pickup from the shipper.

International express delivery and international air transport have significant differences in applicable objects, transport entities, delivery and service content, transport time, cargo tracking and inquiry, documents and customs declaration methods, and claims methods. Therefore, when choosing an international logistics method, customers need to make comprehensive considerations and choices based on their actual needs and the characteristics of the goods.