Express freight is not a ‘one size fits all’ market. Product urgency dictates the choice of service. Specialist operators outline their options and competitive advantages.
SAA develops new express routes
Money-back guarantee
SAA CARGO has put its money where its mouth is on its first-rate express service, with a full refund guarantee for small cargo not flown. A 15% refund is offered on bulk cargo on the next flight if not flown as booked.
The airline operates express routes to Atlanta, New York, Perth, Frankfurt, London, Paris, Sao Paulo, Accra and Harare, and is developing Zurich, Lagos, Hong Kong and Dar Es Salaam.
“The cargo industry is intense and competitive,” says manager product development and global accounts, Brita Blignaut.
“What sets SAA Cargo apart is its efficient and extensive international and comprehensive domestic route network,” says Blignaut.
The airline has categorised its express products to include international express bulk (booked) and small (un-booked), and domestic express - daylight and starlight.
“All these products exclude livestock, human remains, dangerous goods and valuable cargo,” says Blignaut.
“For small express, the parcel must be 30kgs or less with a maximum consignment weight of 100kgs or 5 parcels. For bulk express, shipments in excess of 100kgs or five pieces (no weight restrictions) there is a pre-booking time of eight hours prior to departure with priority retrieval at destination.”
The express option allows customers to bring cargo closer to flying time and guarantees that from time of landing, cargo will benefit from priority retrieval at destination.