International transport and distribution

Advantages and disadvantages of air transport for international trade

Guide

Air transport offers numerous advantages for international trade, depending on your requirements.

Advantages of air transport for international trade

Some of the advantages of transporting your goods by air include:

  • deliver items quickly over long distances
  • give you high levels of security for sensitive items
  • be used for a range of goods

Disadvantages of air transport for international trade

There are some disadvantages of transporting your goods by air, including:

  • air transport can involve higher costs than other options, and is not suitable for all goods
  • flights are subject to delay or cancellation
  • you will need to pay taxes at each airport you use
  • fuel and currency surcharges will usually be added to freight costs
  • further transportation may be needed from the destination airport to the final destination

Make sure that the routes and timetables available for air transport suit your requirements.

You can find more detailed information in our guide on how to move goods by air.