Air Courier Services Key Terms

The sky's the limit when you're familiar with air courier services key terms

In our rapidly-expanding global economy, it's no wonder that air courier services key terms are important to know for all types of business courier needs. Taking responsibility for ensuring that important deliveries arrive at the right destination at the right time and in the right condition is no small task. When shopping around for an air courier service to handle your precious cargo, learn the following key terms that you'll likely come across.

Dimensional weight

Dimensional weight, sometimes referred to as dim weight or measurement weight, is the volume of the package being shipped. Couriers usually charge for their services based on either the dimensional weight or the actual gross weight, depending on which weight is higher.

World clock

A world clock is an Internet-based map or listing that shows the current local times for places all over the world. A world clock is handy when shipping across time zones to help you connect with your customers across the country or around the world at a time that's right for both of you.

Air waybill (AWB)

The air waybill (AWB) is a bill of lading used for flights transporting goods, either domestically or internationally, to a specific destination. It serves as a shipping receipt, proof that the carrier has assumed delivery of the goods to an airport the shipper has designated.

Known Shipper

Because of heightened security since 2001, any individual or business that wants to ship items weighing more than one pound via a commercial air carrier must become a "Known Shipper." Becoming a Known Shipper involves completing and submitting an application for approval.

First flight out

First flight out is a term air courier services use to communicate that they offer on-demand, same-day delivery.

On-board courier

An on-board courier stays with your package from pick-up through delivery, offering truly door-to-door hand-delivery service. Expect to pay a premium for this highly personalized service.

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