Understanding air consolidation and its benefits for small volumes
Air consolidation groups several shippers' cargo into one aircraft loading unit (ULD — Unit Load Device). Unlike full air freight, where one company uses an entire loading unit, LCL allows:
At ALC Transit, each shipment is prepared and consolidated in our secure warehouses before being placed in a suitable ULD. This process guarantees reliable, on-time and controlled delivery to the final recipient.
- Significant cost savings, as each shipper pays only for the space actually used
- Shorter lead times thanks to regular departures and route optimisation
- Enhanced security, with cargo remaining sealed and under permanent control
A fast solution for urgent and sensitive shipments
Air transport offers a significantly shorter transit time than ocean or road freight. It is especially relevant for:
Air consolidation lets you ship without waiting to fill an entire aircraft, while sharing space with other shippers. This reduces costs and ensures fast, secure handling — even during peak periods.
- Perishable products such as foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals
- Sensitive or electronic equipment
- Commercial samples and prototypes where fast delivery is essential
How ALC Transit organises and secures your cargo
Our expertise covers every logistics step:
1. Receipt and preparation of goods
Each package is inspected, palletised if needed and prepared to IATA standards to ensure security and compliance.
2. ULD consolidation and optimisation
Your cargo is grouped with compatible lots in suitable ULDs, maximising available space and reducing costs.
3. Air transport and operational tracking
Each loading unit is tracked in real time from the warehouse to the destination airport, with detailed reports at every stage.
4. Deconsolidation and final delivery
On arrival, cargo is deconsolidated and distributed according to client needs, with full secure tracking to the final recipient.
Our international air network for reliable carriage
ALC Transit organises air shipments to major destinations, with a particular focus on:
Through our airline partner network, we secure dedicated space, obtain reliable lead times and handle urgent requests quickly. Each shipment benefits from controlled, traceable carriage, ensuring reliable service to all destinations.
- West and Central Africa: hubs in Douala, Abidjan, Dakar, Cotonou, Lomé
- Indian Ocean and Europe: hubs in Mauritius, Paris and Marseille
Compliant and secure air operations
ALC Transit applies strict procedures to guarantee security and compliance:
These certifications help reduce delays and inspections while ensuring the security and reliability of your shipments.
- IATA certification for transport under international standards
- AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) status for simplified customs clearance
- Regulatory checks, labelling and packaging adapted to sensitive or dangerous goods
Expertise adapted to all cargo types
Our air consolidation service handles:
Each shipment receives meticulous preparation and coordination with our airline partners, ensuring reliable, secure transport compliant with all regulatory requirements.
- Fresh and perishable products: fruit, vegetables, pharmaceuticals
- Dangerous goods: in compliance with IATA-DGR rules
- Oversized or out-of-gauge products: tailored solutions for bulky cargo
- High-value goods and prototypes: rigorous documentation checks and enhanced tracking
Full charter, partial lot or consolidation: which option to choose?
The right solution depends on total cargo volume, product type and required lead time.
This approach also reduces environmental impact by optimising space use and limiting underloaded flights.
- Full air charter: for large volumes, with a fully dedicated unit
- Partial lot transport: for intermediate volumes, using only part of the aircraft
- Air consolidation (LCL): for small volumes, sharing space with other shippers to reduce costs while guaranteeing speed and security