Airforwarders Are Essential Partners in the Supply Chain
Air freight forwarders, also known as “airforwarders”, provide comprehensive air freight transportation services throughout the United States. They also operate across global markets.
Airforwarders are federally regulated Indirect Air Carriers. Their authority to operate is granted by the Transportation Security Administration. Owners and employees of these companies must pass background checks to ensure the aviation industry’s safety and security. Additionally, the TSA performs audits and spot-checks throughout their time of licensure. Both companies and individuals must renew at prescribed intervals.
Unlike asset-based carriers, airforwarders maintain flexibility by leveraging various transportation options. They utilize cargo services offered by scheduled passenger airlines and dedicated freighter operators. This helps them move shipments efficiently within the U.S. and internationally. Often, they supplement air transport with truck, ship, and rail connections. This creates seamless logistics solutions.
Airforwarders work with a variety of shippers. The commodities they handle range from general cargo to specialties such as Just-In-Time (JIT) automotive. They also handle life-saving drugs and pharmaceuticals, oversized project cargo, and fresh food, to name just a few.
Airforwarders Are Essential Partners in the Supply Chain
Airforwarders provide comprehensive air freight transportation services throughout the United States and across global markets.
Airforwarders are federally regulated Indirect Air Carriers whose authority to operate is granted by the Transportation Security Administration. Owners and employees of these companies must pass background checks to ensure the safety and security of the aviation industry and the TSA performs audits and spot-checks throughout the duration of their time of licensure and companies and individuals must renew at prescribed intervals.
Unlike asset-based carriers, airforwarders maintain flexibility by leveraging various transportation options. They utilize cargo services offered by scheduled passenger airlines and dedicated freighter operators to move shipments efficiently within the U.S. and internationally, often supplementing air transport with truck, ship, and rail connections to create seamless logistics solutions.
Airforwarders work with a variety of shippers and commodities ranging from general cargo to such specialties as Just-In-Time (JIT) automotive, life-saving drugs and pharmaceuticals, oversized project cargo and fresh food to name just a few.
Industry Scale and Economic Impact
The air forwarding sector in the United States comprises over 3,500 registered freight forwarders employing more than 100,000 professionals across the country and abroad. These businesses serve as valuable partners to U.S. companies of all sizes, improving supply chain efficiency, negotiating competitive rates, and accelerating time-to-market for critical products and components.
Airforwarders play an important role in the e-commerce sector, helping retailers meet consumer expectations for rapid delivery throughout the United States while also facilitating international product sourcing and distribution.
Security and Regulatory Compliance
As the primary interface between shippers and air carriers, airforwarders play a crucial role in transportation security. Indirect Air Carriers operate under stringent Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security programs, ensuring comprehensive screening and secure handling of all cargo before it boards an aircraft anywhere in the U.S.
The Airforwarders Association works closely with federal agencies including TSA, Customs and Border Protection, and the Department of Homeland Security to develop policies that enhance security while maintaining efficient commerce.
The AfA Is Your Resource – Utilize It Today
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) represents the collective voice of the air cargo industry in Washington D.C. and beyond. For freight forwarders and industry service providers, AfA membership provides advocacy, educational resources, networking opportunities, and exclusive benefits. These benefits are designed to help your business thrive in today’s complex logistics environment.
For government officials, regulatory agencies, and policymakers, the Airforwarders Association serves as a valuable resource for industry expertise and perspective. We welcome the opportunity to share insights on air cargo operations, security protocols, and supply chain dynamics. We aim to support informed policy development that balances security requirements with commerce facilitation.
Whether you’re considering membership, seeking industry expertise for policy matters, or wish to interview our Executive Director or members for a story or on background, we invite you to connect with the Airforwarders Association.