What is the process for the consignee to pick up the goods after they arrive at the airport?
When your air freight shipment arrives at the airport, the consignee's pickup process typically involves preparing documents in advance, paying relevant fees, waiting for customs clearance notification, and then picking up the shipment. Below, Senghor Logistics will help you understand the specific consignee airport pickup process for your reference.
First: Key documents you need to have
Before you head to the airport, please ensure you have the following documents ready.
1. Identity
(1) Proof of identity: Individual consignees must provide ID and a copy. The name on the ID should match the consignee's name on the shipment. Corporate consignees must provide a copy of their business license and the legal representative's ID (some airports require an official seal).
(2) Consignee authorization: If you are not the company owner listed on the air waybill, you may need a letter of authorization on your company letterhead authorizing you to collect the shipment.
2. Air waybill
This is the main document that serves as a receipt for the cargo and the contract of carriage between the shipper and the airline. Verify that the bill number, cargo name, number of pieces, gross weight, and other information match the actual shipment. (or house waybill, if handled by a freight forwarder.)
3. Documents required for customs clearance
Commercial invoice: This document outlines the details of the transaction, including the value and use of the goods.
Packing list: Specify the detailed specifications and quantity of each shipment.
Import license: Depending on the nature of the goods (such as cosmetics, machinery, etc.), an import license may be required.
Ensure all documents are accurate and complete. Once your shipment arrives and is officially ready for picking up, you will:
Step 1: Wait for the "Arrival Notice" from your freight forwarder
Your freight forwarder (that's us!) will send you an “Arrival Notice”. This document confirms that:
- The flight has landed at the arrival airport.
- The shipment has been unloaded.
- The customs clearance process is either complete or pending your action.
This notice will contain essential information like the House Air Waybill (HAWB) number, the weight/volume of the shipment, cargo route (whether to a supervised warehouse or for direct pickup), estimated pickup time, warehouse address, and contact information and any charges due.
If no such notice is received, the consignee can contact the airline's cargo department or freight forwarder directly with the air waybill number to avoid incurring storage fees due to prolonged cargo detention. But don't worry, our operations support team will monitor flight arrivals and departures and provide timely notifications.
(If the goods are not picked up in time, storage fees may be incurred due to the long-term detention of the goods.)
Step 2: Customs clearance
Next, you need to complete customs declaration and inspection. Regarding customs clearance, there are two main options.
Self-clearance: This means that you, as the importer of record, are fully responsible for preparing and submitting all required documents directly to customs.
Please prepare all documents and go directly to the customs declaration hall at the airport to submit your declaration materials and submit the customs declaration form.
Declare truthfully, accurately classifying your goods using the correct HS code, tariff number, value, and other information.
If customs officials have questions or request an inspection, please communicate directly with them.
Ensure all documents (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, etc.) are 100% accurate.
Using a freight forwarder or customs broker: If you are unfamiliar with the process, you can hire a licensed professional to manage the entire customs clearance process on your behalf.
You will need to provide a power of attorney (specifying the authority to delegate) to act as your professional agent, submitting documents on your behalf and interacting directly with customs authorities for greater efficiency.
Step 3: Cooperate with customs inspections
Customs will conduct random inspections of goods based on the declared information. The general process involves document review, physical inspection, sampling and testing, and risk assessment. If an inspection is requested, the consignee must cooperate with customs at the supervised warehouse to verify that the goods are consistent with the declared information (e.g., quantity, specifications, and brand).
If the inspection is clear, customs will issue a "Release Notice." If there are any issues (e.g., discrepancies in the declaration or missing documents), you will need to provide additional materials or make corrections as required by customs until the requirements are met.
Step 4: Settle all outstanding charges
Air freight involves various charges beyond just the air shipping cost. These can include:
- Handling charges (the cost of actual handling of the goods.)
- Customs clearance fees
- Duties & taxes
- Storage fees (if the cargo is not picked up within the airport's free storage period)
- Security surcharges, etc.
It is critical to pay these fees before proceeding to the airport warehouse to avoid delays.
Step 5: Customs release and ready to pick up goods
Once customs clearance is complete and fees are paid, you can pick up your goods at the designated warehouse. Go to the "Collection Warehouse Address" on the arrival notice or customs release (usually a controlled warehouse at the airport cargo terminal or the airline's own warehouse). Bring your "Release Notice," "Payment Receipt," and "Proof of Identity" to pick up your cargo.
If you entrust a freight forwarder with customs clearance, your freight forwarder will issue a Delivery Order (D/O) upon payment confirmation. This is your proof of delivery. A D/O is a formal instruction from the freight forwarder to the airline warehouse authorizing them to deliver specific cargo to you (the designated consignee).
Step 6: Cargo pickup
With the release order in hand, the consignee can proceed to the designated area to collect their cargo. It’s advisable to have appropriate transportation arranged in advance, especially for larger shipments. The consignee should also ensure that they have enough manpower to handle the cargo, as some terminals may not provide assistance. Before leaving the warehouse, please always count the goods and inspect the packaging for any signs of damage.
Professional tips for a hassle-free experience
Communicate early: Provide your freight forwarder with your accurate contact information to ensure you receive timely arrival notifications.
Avoiding demurrage charges: Airports offer a short period of free storage (usually 24-48 hours). After that, daily storage charges will apply. Arrange for collection as soon as possible after receiving notification.
Warehouse inspection: If you find any obvious damage to the goods or packaging, please report it to the warehouse staff immediately before leaving and provide an abnormal certificate indicating the damage to the goods.
The process of picking up cargo at the airport can be straightforward if the consignee is well-prepared and understands the necessary steps. Senghor Logistics as your dedicated freight forwarder, our goal is to provide you with a smooth air shipping service and guide you through the pickup process.
Have cargo ready to ship? Contact our team today.
If you prefer not to handle airport pickup, you can also inquire about our door-to-door service. We'll ensure you have all the necessary information and support for a smooth shipping experience from start to finish.
Post time: Sep-26-2025
