Air Cargo Tariffs and Rules (TACT)
Air cargo tariffs and rules are essential in the aviation industry to regulate the pricing and transportation of goods via air. These tariffs and rules outline the charges, fees, and regulations imposed by airlines and air cargo companies for shipping goods by air.
What is TACT?
Air Cargo Tariffs and Rules (TACT) is a comprehensive guide that provides essential information and guidelines for the air freight industry. It serves as a reference for airlines, freight forwarders, and other stakeholders involved in air cargo transportation.
Tariffs, rates, taxes, and regulations pertaining to the air transportation of commodities are just a few of the many areas covered by TACT. It describes the policies, guidelines, and requirements that need to be adhered to in order to guarantee effective and seamless cargo operations.
The primary purpose of TACT is to establish a standardized framework for the air cargo industry. It helps streamline processes and ensure consistency in pricing and services across different airlines and countries. By adhering to TACT guidelines, stakeholders can minimize confusion, disputes, and delays in cargo handling.
TACT encourages openness and competition in the aviation freight sector. It creates precise guidelines and norms to stop unethical behavior and guarantee an even playing field for all parties involved. In the end, this helps companies and customers by fostering confidence and trust among industry players.
Air Cargo Tariff:
The tariffs specify the rates for different types of cargo, such as general cargo, perishable goods, hazardous materials, and oversized shipments. They also define the pricing structure based on factors like weight, volume, distance, and any additional services required.
Air freight charges are determined by each airline or by the industry as a whole. The terms "TACT Tariffs," and "TACT Rates" are also used to refer to them.
The tariffs and rates listed in TACT are regularly updated to reflect market changes, ensuring that industry participants have access to accurate and up-to-date pricing information. This enables them to calculate costs, negotiate contracts, and provide competitive pricing to their customers.
Elements affecting Air Cargo Tariff:
1- Freight rates
Rates are one of the main elements in the air cargo tariff. They are determined based on factors such as the weight and dimensions of the cargo, the distance traveled, and the type of goods being shipped. The rates may vary depending on the origin and destination of the shipment, as well as any specific requirements or restrictions imposed by the airlines or countries involved.
2- Fuel surcharges
Fuel is another important component of the tariff. As fuel prices fluctuate, airlines may impose surcharges to offset the increased costs. These surcharges are typically calculated as a percentage of the freight rate and are subject to change based on market conditions.
3- Handling charges
It covers the cost of various services provided by the airlines or ground handling agents. These may include cargo handling, warehousing, documentation, and other administrative tasks. The charges are based on the volume or weight of the cargo and are designed to compensate for the resources and manpower required to handle the shipments.
4- Security fees
Security fees are levied to ensure the safety and security of air cargo transportation. These fees contribute to the implementation of security measures and compliance with regulatory requirements. They are often imposed per kilogram or pound of cargo and are subject to government regulations and oversight.
5- Customs duties and taxes
They are additional charges that may be applicable when shipping goods internationally. These charges are imposed by the customs authorities of the respective countries and are based on the value and nature of the goods being imported or exported. The tariff provides guidelines on these charges to facilitate compliance and accurate cost estimation
Air Cargo Rules:
An air freight rule is a set of requirements that must be followed while moving and managing cargo by air. It could be an airline, a nation, a carrier, the IATA's "ready for carriage" standards, a city or an airport code, or something else entirely.
Rules associated with air cargo focus on safety, security, and compliance with international standards. These rules ensure that all cargo is properly classified, packaged, and labeled to prevent any potential risks during transportation. They also outline the necessary documentation, including air waybills, commercial invoices, and customs declarations.
Air cargo tariffs and rules play a vital role in regulating the pricing, safety, and compliance aspects of shipping goods by air. They provide a standardized framework for the aviation industry, ensuring transparency, fairness, and efficiency in air cargo operations.