Other Transportation FAQs: General Transportation FedEx® Program OnTrac Program

 

Air Cargo FAQ

What airlines offer CalFlowers qualifying members reduced rates?

How do I get started shipping on an airline?

I understand American Airlines requires shippers to have a PAL number. What is a PAL number and how do I go about getting one?

If I am simply receiving cargo on American Airlines, do I need a PAL number?

Do I need to become a "Known Shipper" to ship directly on an airline?

What do I do if I didn't receive the shipping rates I expected on a particular airline?

Do all airlines have a Fuel Surcharge when shipping cargo?

What is a Security / Screening surcharge?

 


What airlines offer CalFlower qualifying members reduced rates? (subject to change)

Air Canada
Alaska Airlines Cargo
American Airlines Cargo
Delta Airlines Cargo
Hawaiian Air Cargo
Southwest Airlines Cargo
United Airlines Cargo
WestJet Cargo

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How do I get started shipping on an airline?

Shipping on an airline is easy, but it takes a few steps to get ready to ship. Each airline is different in terms of what they require. It's best to contact Chris Johnson, Director of Transportation, by phone at 760-533-5580 or via e-mail at [email protected] to help with the process.

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I understand American Airlines requires shippers to have a PAL number. What is a PAL number and how do I go about getting one?

Yes, American Airlines Cargo does require a shipper to have a valid PAL number. A PAL number is a Personal Account Locator, which identifies the shipper to AA and holds all the necessary information needed to successfully ship. Members can easily create a PAL number by visiting the AA website (www.aacargo.com) to get started. Once you have a PAL account, shippers would just need to reference our American Airlines rates pages for the proper commodity item number / tariff code to use on the air waybill. Shippers then just need to contact AA to book the shipment.

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If I am simply receiving cargo on American Airlines, do I need a PAL number?

It's best if you do but not necessary if you are paying cast at the airport. The shipper's PAL account will suffice to get the special CalFlowers rates. If you want AA to invoice you, a PAL and credit account would be necessary.

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Do I need to become a "Known Shipper" to ship directly on an airline?

Yes. To ship directly on a airline, you will need to obtain "Known Shipper" status. To become a Known Shipper, the airline will send someone out to your location. It's pretty simple, but keep in mind that once you become a Known Shipper on a particular airline, it is only applicable to THAT airline. If you plan to ship on a number of airlines, contact each airline and request Known Shipper status separately.

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What do I do if I didn't receive the shipping rates I expected on a particular airline?

Simply inquire with the airline. If you are unable to get a response that answers your question, please contact Chris Johnson, Director of Transportation, by phone at 760-533-5580 or via e-mail at [email protected] for assistance.

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Do all airlines have a Fuel Surcharge when shipping cargo?

Most of them do, however as of late, most airlines build this surcharge into their rates.  This change has made it easier to calculate landed costs.

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What is a Security / Screening surcharge?

Airlines are required by the TSA to screen cargo. Airlines had to put procedures, personnel, and equipment in place to comply with these new regulations. The airlines charge a fee (surcharge) for this requirement. The surcharge is usually between 6 and 10 cents per pound.

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