Many shippers spent the past year making up for lost time. Facing U.S. port congestion and production delays at overseas manufacturing sites, more companies opted to move goods by air to keep their supply chains on schedule.
But beyond the guarantee of faster transit times than ocean shipping, the airfreight environment was not friendly to shippers in 2021. Rates remained above pre-pandemic levels while capacity remained tight. Near the end of the year, delays at airport cargo handling operations prevented freight from moving efficiently through carriers’ networks.
Air cargo demand is still high, however. Carriers responded this year by bolstering their transportation services and capacity. If travel demand rebounds in 2022 like airline executives hope, additional cargo space will return to the market.
Shippers could use the relief, as the six stories below demonstrate airfreight’s importance in the face of supply chain turmoil.
Peloton will incur 10 times its usual transportation costs as it ships by air, expedited ocean
By Shefali Kapadia • Feb. 8, 2021
The fitness equipment company is spending $100 million to speed deliveries to frustrated consumers. Read the full article ➔
Ceva Logistics adds guaranteed airfreight capacity in volatile market
By Matt Leonard • April 22, 2021
Shipper demand for sea-to-air conversions reduced airfreight capacity and increased rates in the aftermath of the Suez Canal blockage. Read the full article ➔
Sea-to-air conversions drive up airfreight rates on Transpacific
By Matt Leonard • May 10, 2021
Tight capacity and volatility in the air cargo market leads many shippers to seek longer-term contracts with their carriers. Read the full article ➔
Brands turn to air cargo as inventory delays continue
By Edwin Lopez • June 8, 2021
The companies behind brands such as Levi Strauss and Tommy Hilfiger said they are expediting more shipments to keep up with sales. Read the full article ➔
DHL orders 9 converted freighters from Boeing as airfreight demand jumps
By Max Garland • Nov. 22, 2021
Orders for Boeing freighters have already surpassed the company’s highest-ever annual order tally, according to its CEO. Read the full article ➔
Toymaker Ty air ships products for the holidays to avoid port congestion
By Max Garland • Dec. 1, 2021
More companies are taking their freight to the skies as the holidays begin, sacrificing the cost-effectiveness of ocean shipping to ensure products arrive in time. Read the full article ➔
Post time: Dec-24-2021