How to respond the peak season of international air freight shipping: A guide for importers
As professional freight forwarders, we understand that the peak season of international air freight can be both an opportunity and a challenge for importers. The surge in demand during this period can lead to increased shipping costs, limited cargo space, and potential delays. However, with careful planning and strategic decision-making, importers can effectively navigate these challenges and ensure a smooth supply chain operation. Here are some key strategies to consider:
1. Advance planning and forecasting
The first step in preparing for the peak season is to analyze historical data and forecast demand accurately. Understanding your sales patterns and seasonal trends will help you anticipate the volume of goods you need to import. Collaborate with your suppliers to ensure they can meet your increased demand and plan your orders well in advance. This proactive approach will allow you to secure space on flights before capacity becomes constrained.
2. Establish strong relationships with freight forwarders
Building a solid relationship with a reliable freight forwarder is crucial during peak season. A good forwarder will have established connections with airlines and can help you secure space even when demand is high. They can also provide valuable insights into market trends, pricing fluctuations, and alternative shipping options. Regular communication with your forwarder will ensure that you are informed about any changes in the logistics landscape.
♥ Senghor Logistics has signed contracts with major airlines, fixed routes have fixed space (US, Europe), and can also be prioritized during peak season to meet customers' timeliness needs. We regularly receive price updates from airlines, match direct flights and transfer plans, and provide customers with first-hand freight rate information.
3. Consider alternative shipping methods
While air freight is often the fastest option, it can also be the most expensive, especially during peak season. Consider diversifying your shipping methods by exploring ocean freight or rail freight options for less time-sensitive shipments. This can help alleviate some of the pressure on air freight and potentially reduce costs.
♥ Senghor Logistics not only provides air transport services, but also sea freight, rail freight, and land transportation services, providing customers with quotes for multiple logistics methods.
4. Optimize your shipping schedule
Timing is everything during peak season. Work closely with your freight forwarder to develop a shipping schedule that maximizes efficiency. This may involve shipping smaller, more frequent shipments rather than waiting for a large order to be ready. By spreading out your shipments, you can avoid congestion and ensure that your goods arrive on time.
♥ Experienced freight forwarders will help customers optimize shipping plans and improve the supply chain. Senghor Logistics once encountered an American customer who specialized in custom furniture. He wanted us to help him ship the more urgent orders first because his customers could not wait for all orders to be sent at the same time. Therefore, we first use LCL shipping for the more urgent orders and transport them directly to his customer's address. For the less urgent orders later, we will wait for the factory to complete the production before loading and shipping them together.
5. Be prepared for increased costs
During the peak season, air freight prices may soar due to high demand and limited capacity. You can factor these increased costs into your budget and incorporate them into your pricing strategy. Communicate potential price adjustments with your suppliers and customers to maintain transparency.
6. Stay informed about regulatory changes
International shipping is subject to various regulations that can change frequently. Stay informed about any updates related to customs, tariffs, and import/export regulations that may affect your shipments. Your freight forwarder can be an invaluable resource in navigating these complexities and ensuring compliance.
♥ The biggest impact on freight recently is tariffs. We are experiencing a trade war between China and the United States. Which products are currently subject to which tariffs? 301 tariffs? 232 tariffs? Fentanyl tariffs? Reciprocal tariffs? You can consult us! We are proficient in import tariffs in Europe, America, Canada and Australia. We can check and calculate them clearly. Or you can choose our DDP service with customs clearance and taxes, which can be shipped by sea or air.
Further reading:
The peak season of international air cargo freight presents both challenges and opportunities for importers. By implementing these strategies and working closely with a professional freight forwarder, you can navigate the complexities of this busy period with confidence.
Partnering with Senghor Logistics, we will provide you with more efficient cargo service, ultimately improving your customer satisfaction and business success.
Post time: Jul-18-2025
