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Why latest acceptance times are critical for air cargo succes
In air cargo logistics, precision and timing are everything. A crucial piece of this puzzle is the latest acceptance time (LAT), the deadline by which shipments must be received by the handling agent to ensure they make their scheduled flight. LAT isn’t just a guideline; it’s a cornerstone of efficient operations, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction and it plays a pivotal role in ensuring shipments “fly as booked” departing on schedule without delays.
During the ACHL event in Istanbul I had the pleasure to listen to inspiring industry leaders amongst Kai Domscheit during panel discussions. Although the industry is moving in the right direction with data protocols, to support seamless air cargo transportation amongst stakeholders supporting the execution on the contract of carriage, it was made clear that still vital aspects in handling are not standardized and therefore could potentially negatively affect the deliver as promised ratio for airlines and the service level performance of ground handlers.
I learned from the discussions that the LAT is not always clearly defined. Is the LAT the moment the driver enters the front yard of the handling agent, the moment the driver reports himself at the office desk, when paperwork is validated and verified, when trailer is docked or when the cargo physically has been handed over to the handling company.
To ensure that cargo can fly as booked, not only the given LAT must be taken into account but also the time needed to pass the gatepost, potential waiting times due to congestion issues, the time needed to validate paperwork and time needed to unload and transfer the cargo.
These aspects might different per handling company per station and even might fluctuate over certain days during the week.
This further opened my eyes on how to build in intelligence in the RFS Trucking CDM control tower to cope with these scenarios providing maximized visibility, transparency and plannability for both trucking and handling companies to ensure that cargo will fly as booked.
Understanding Latest Acceptance Time (LAT)
The LAT is the final point when a shipment must be delivered to the cargo handler to be processed, screened, and prepared for loading onto the aircraft. Depending on the shipment type, flight schedule, and regulatory requirements, LAT can vary, but meeting it is non-negotiable.
Why Adhering to Latest Acceptance Times (LAT) is Non-Negotiable in Air Cargo
In the world of air cargo, precision isn’t just a luxury it’s a necessity. The Latest Acceptance Time (LAT) is a critical deadline that ensures shipments are processed, screened, and ready for loading before takeoff. Missing this deadline can set off a domino effect of delays and inefficiencies, making strict adherence to LAT an absolute must. Here’s why LAT compliance is non-negotiable for successful air cargo operations.
1. Keeping Flight Schedules on Track
Air cargo moves at the speed of aviation, with tightly synchronized schedules that leave no room for error. When shipments arrive after the LAT, they risk missing their scheduled flight. This delay doesn’t just affect that one shipment; it can disrupt downstream connections, delay deliveries, and throw off the entire logistics chain.
2. Allowing Time for Proper Handling and Screening
Cargo handling involves multiple time-sensitive steps, and meeting LAT is crucial to ensure handlers have enough time for:
When shipments arrive late, these workflows are compressed or disrupted, leading to operational bottlenecks that may jeopardize the flight’s departure.
3. Avoiding Rebooking Costs and Delays
Missed LATs often mean one thing: the shipment won’t fly as planned. This can lead to costly rebooking fees, delayed schedules, and lost productivity. For shippers, it’s an added expense. For airlines, it’s a hit to efficiency and reliability. In an industry where reputation is everything, such setbacks can have long-term consequences.
4. Meeting Expectations for Time-Sensitive Goods
Air cargo is often the preferred choice for goods that need to move fast—like perishable foods, critical medical supplies, and urgent e-commerce shipments. Missing the LAT can compromise product quality, result in financial losses, and erode customer trust. In a world of high expectations, timely delivery is non-negotiable.
5. Maintaining Regulatory Compliance
International air cargo is governed by strict regulations, from customs declarations to security protocols. Arriving after the LAT can mean skipping essential compliance steps, which could lead to fines, shipment hold-ups, or outright rejections. Adhering to LAT ensures every shipment meets the necessary legal and regulatory standards.
The Bottom Line: LAT as a Benchmark for Success
In air cargo, the clock is always ticking, and the LAT is a critical milestone in ensuring shipments stay on track. By adhering to this deadline, stakeholders in the logistics chain can maintain smooth operations, keep flights on schedule, and meet customer demands without compromise.
Whether you’re a shipper, freight forwarder, or airline, respecting the LAT is more than just a best practice, it’s the foundation of reliable and efficient air cargo service. Latest acceptance times are Critical for Air Cargo Success!
Raoul Paul | CEO CargoHub