In today’s fast-paced logistics landscape, digital freight platforms like Octoloop are revolutionizing air cargo bookings, making the process seamless, transparent, and efficient. However, understanding industry-specific terms and abbreviations is essential for navigating the digital freight ecosystem with ease. Whether you’re an airline, freight forwarder, or logistics partner, mastering these terms will enhance your experience with online cargo bookings.
Essential Air Cargo Digital Freight Terms
1. AWB (Air Waybill)
AWB is a crucial document in air cargo that serves as a contract between the shipper and the carrier, outlining the details of the shipment, terms, and conditions.
2. MAWB (Master Air Waybill) & HAWB (House Air Waybill)
3. eAWB (Electronic Air Waybill)
A paperless version of the traditional AWB, the eAWB enhances efficiency, reduces errors, and simplifies documentation in digital air cargo booking.
4. FWB & FHL (Freight Messaging Standards)
5. SLA (Service Level Agreement)
An SLA is a commitment between service providers (such as airlines and freight forwarders) that defines service expectations, including transit time, rates, and quality assurance.
6. EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)
EDI is a digital system that allows seamless exchange of business documents (such as AWBs and invoices) between cargo stakeholders, reducing manual processing time.
7. RFS (Road Feeder Service)
When cargo is transported via road as part of an air cargo shipment, RFS ensures smooth intermodal connectivity.
8. TACT (The Air Cargo Tariff & Rules)
A comprehensive guide detailing regulations, tariffs, and operational requirements for air cargo shipments.
9. ULD (Unit Load Device)
A standardized container or pallet used for loading and securing air cargo in aircraft to optimize space and ensure safety.
10. eBooking (Electronic Booking)
The process of digitally booking cargo space with airlines, offering real-time capacity availability, rates, and instant confirmations. Platforms like Octoloop simplify eBooking, enhancing efficiency for freight forwarders and airlines alike.
11. Carting
The process of physically moving cargo from a warehouse or storage facility to the airline terminal for export or vice versa for import. Efficient carting ensures timely cargo handling and reduces delays in the supply chain.
12. Ad Hoc Rates
Special freight rates negotiated between the airline and the freight forwarder or shipper for specific shipments that do not fall under standard contract rates. These are often used for urgent or unique shipments.
13. Spot Rates
Real-time pricing for cargo space based on current market demand, route, and capacity availability. Spot rates fluctuate frequently and provide an opportunity for cost-effective bookings based on supply and demand.
14. LAT (Latest Acceptance Time)
The deadline by which cargo must be delivered to the airline or handling agent for it to be processed and loaded onto the scheduled flight. Meeting the LAT is crucial to ensuring timely departures.
15. Interline Agreements
Agreements between two or more airlines that allow cargo to be transferred between carriers under a single AWB, improving network reach and operational flexibility.
Why Understanding These Terms Matters
As the air cargo industry shifts towards digitalization, platforms like Octoloop empower businesses with real-time connectivity, instant rate visibility, and automated booking processes. Familiarity with these terms ensures that logistics professionals can leverage digital freight platforms effectively, improving efficiency, reducing delays, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Join the Digital Freight Revolution with Octoloop! Octoloop is bridging the gap between airlines and freight forwarders with seamless digital booking solutions. Whether you are an IATA or non-IATA agent, our platform ensures fairness, network growth, and ease of cargo booking.
Ready to simplify your air cargo operations? Sign up with Octoloop today!
