As global companies look for alternative logistics options due to disruptions in the Red Sea, air freight capacity is becoming increasingly scarce, observes the Air Cargo Club Germany. The reason is the rapid growth, especially of the Chinese online retailers Shein and Temu, which took up space on the cargo planes for their shipments. So far, the majority of products have been flown in individually addressed packages directly from the factories in China to customers in Europe and the USA.
“A crucial success factor for online trading is the resilience and speed of the supply chain, because the requirements for the transport of e-commerce shipments are very complex. In order to keep pace with this growth rate, we must closely monitor aircraft capacity and available services and adjust if necessary. This also applies to all additional processes and IT capabilities within the context of e-commerce transport. These can help ensure that goods are transported faster and more reliably,” explained Boris Hueske, Heyworld managing director at an event organized by the Aircargo Club Germany.
With a share of over 30 percent, online trading could become the most important commodity in air freight. So far, it is primarily European countries that have benefited from this.
Air freight locations outside of Germany such as Amsterdam Airport or Liège. The reason: The conditions for freight traffic in Liège, for example, appear to be significantly better than at many German locations. The Belgian airport has a 24-hour permit, sufficient handling capacity, sufficient air traffic rights and free slots as well as flexible charter permits. In addition, Belgian customs are considered less complicated in the industry – even though the customs regulations are actually the same everywhere in Europe.
Prof. Dr. Christopher W. Stoller, President of the Aircargo Club Germany, points out the danger to Germany as an air freight location:
“It is not fair competition if European customs rules are interpreted and handled differently. Politicians must take action to implement this and thus help Germany become more attractive as an air freight location.”
Source: www.transport-online.de