What is an Air Freight Software?
Air freight software is a comprehensive digital platform used by manufacturers, logistics providers, warehouse personnel, and transportation coordinators to efficiently manage air cargo shipments. It encompasses a range of functionalities designed to streamline the movement of goods via commercial or passenger airlines, ensuring seamless coordination and optimized operations.
Importance
The air freight industry plays a critical role in the modern supply chain, as it considerably cuts the transit time of goods. Since this relies on intricate networks, advanced transport and logistics solutions and thorough aircraft maintenance are required to ensure safety and efficiency. DB Schenker, a global logistics and supply chain management leader, utilizes one of the best platforms to ensure safety and quality in all their air freight workflows. With the help of a centralized communication channel, everyone gets precise information for Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSE) consistency. Here are some specific benefits of utilizing air cargo software:
Improved Visibility
Transport and logistics face numerous uncertainties, from severe weather conditions to sudden changes in security protocols. Software solutions offer real-time tracking and monitoring tools that provide stakeholders with accurate and timely information on the status and location of cargo. In particular, an air freight software with built-in communication tools allow all personnel to collaborate better, like discussing viable steps in case any issues emerge.
Optimized Routing and Scheduling
Commercial air cargo services carry products from various companies. Consolidating shipments, classifying goods, and planning transport hubs are smoother and more efficient with the help of digital tools. Ultimately, the platform helps minimize delays, eliminate bottlenecks, and optimize costs
Efficient Document Management
Dispatch inspections, warehouse inventory, and logistics transport checks require proper documentation. If done manually, these tasks will take forever to accomplish. Through digitization and automation, employees can reduce errors and ensure compliance with cross-border and international regulations.
Key Features of an Air Freight Software
A freight software solution is available as a stand-alone program or part of a more comprehensive logistics or supply chain management platform. Whichever you decide to go for, make sure it has the following essentials:
Comprehensive template repository (e.g. for freight audits, transport checks, and delivery inspections)
Capacity planning with scheduling
Shipment tracking
Airway Bill (AWB) management
Document management
Route optimization
Inventory management
Sensors (e.g., temperature and humidity monitors)
Customs compliance
Reporting (e.g. for incidents, emergencies, product damages, etc.)
Analytics
Regulatory compliance management
Collaboration tools
Automated aerts and notifications
User permissions and data security
Aircraft and flight information integration
Mobile accessibility
Selecting the Right Air Freight Software
Any of the software solutions named above offer a range of benefits that contribute to increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved overall performance. Before making your final choice, take another look at the summary of these air cargo software below.
Air Freight Software | Free Version | Paid Plan | Mobile App |
SafetyCulture | Yes | $24/user/month* | Yes |
FreightExchange | Yes | AUD 250 (≈$170)/month | No |
CargoWise | No | Contact for pricing | Yes |
Logitude World | No | $39/user/month* | Yes |
Scope | No | Contact for pricing | No |
WinSped | No | Contact for pricing | Yes |
GoComet | No | Contact for pricing | Yes |
* billed annually