e-freight

Moving towards a paperless era

e-freight aims to take the paper out of air cargo and to replace it with the exchange of electronic data and messages.

For detailed information, download the e-freight fundamentals (pdf).

Roadmap to 100% e-freight

Launched by IATA in 2006 as part of the StB program, e-freight became an industry-wide initiative involving carriers, freight forwarders, ground handlers, shippers and customs authorities. In 2012 the Global Air Cargo Advisory Group (GACAG) developed a roadmap to 100% e-freight (pdf).

The detailed roadmap to 100% e-freight (pdf) defines the approach, structure and targets for the e-freight program moving forward. The roadmap outlines a shared end-to-end industry approach with clear leadership roles, around three core components, or "pillars":

1. Pillar I: Engaging regulators and governments worldwide to create an ‘e-freight route network’ with fully electronic customs procedures and where regulations support paperless shipments
2. Pillar II: Working collaboratively within the cargo supply chain to digitize the core industry transport documents, starting with the air waybill
3. Pillar III: Developing a plan to digitize the commercial and special cargo documents typically accompanying airfreight today, in or outside of the ‘Cargo pouch’

2013 targets

• Increase the e-freight route network coverage from 33% to 45% of the global trade lanes
• Pilot e-freight in at least two of the BRIC countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China
• Grow global e-AWB penetration to 20%

Scorecards

• Global project scorecard (pdf)
• Monthly e-freight volumes report - International (pdf)