How To Build Air Freight Management Software – A Step-by-Step Guide

Earlier, when traditional air freight management procedures were in trend, businesses faced numerous issues. Major ones were manual paperwork, limited scalability, low-profit margins, inefficient cargo handling, and more. Stakeholders like shippers, exporters, freight forwarders, airlines, and carriers were waiting for the best rescuer to address these challenges. 

With technical shifts emerged air freight management software (FMS). What is air freight management software? It’s a robust tool that addresses the pain points of air cargo transportation businesses and results in streamlined operations, enhanced efficiency, and improved customer satisfaction. Commonly, cargo logistics, shipping, and supply chain management companies use FMS. Such software meets their needs for easy management of complex international shipping, last-mile delivery, and customs compliance. Therefore, companies are switching their traditional systems to air freight management software.

Per the latest statistics, the global air freight software market is anticipated to hit an estimated figure of $7.2 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of around 2.5% from 2024 to 2030. This is a testament to the fact that the future of this market is promising and will flourish with time in the cargo airline, ecommerce brand, commercial airline, and third-party freight service provider markets.

Businesses and enthusiasts who are interested in investing in the growing air freight industry should build air freight management software. How to develop air freight management software? A software development company can help you here. 

In this blog post, we will guide you on the air freight software market, how to build air freight management software, core features to consider, technical architecture, and more. 

Let’s get started!

What Is Air Freight Management Software Development?

Air Freight Management Software development is the process of designing, developing, and implementing a unique software solution that eases and optimizes the complex processes of air cargo transportation. It’s best at automating tasks, improving efficiency, and enhancing visibility. Thus, it helps businesses with well-managed air freight operations. 

How Does Air Freight Management Software Work? 

Now, let’s learn the working of air freight management system software. 

1. Shipment Creation and Booking

It starts with inputting shipping details. 

Next, the software automatically evaluates the air freight shipping costs depending on the real-time air freight rates of various carriers. 

Ahead, users pick the cost-effective software (per their choice) and perform shipment booking directly using the software. 

2. Document Generation

The software generates the required shipping documents, like packing lists, commercial invoices, and air waybills. 

These documents are sent automatically to relevant parties, including carriers and customs brokers. 

3. Real-Time Tracking

When integrated with carrier systems, the software provides shipments with real-time air freight tracking. Users can easily monitor the progress of their shipments from start to end. 

In case there’s any exception or delay, air freight solutions automatically flag them for prompt attention. 

4. Customs Clearance

This is the most crucial step, and here, the software helps create custom documentation and file customs declarations. 

Also, it holds the caliber to track the status of clearance and offer alerts if it predicts any potential delay. 

5. Reporting and Analytics

In the end, the software generated detailed key performance indicators (KPIs) and reports on transit times, shipping costs, and carrier performance. 

Businesses can recognize the areas demanding improvement and make sound decisions using these data reports.

So, by working this way, air freight management software leads to diminished manual effort, improves complete operational efficiency, and reduces errors. 

Why To Invest In Air Freight Management Software Development?

The modernization and growth of the air freight logistics sector are facilitating seamless trade and quick response to emergencies. These are the significant factors driving investments in the freight industry. 

Besides, more parameters, facts, and figures show that investing in air freight management software development is beneficial. Let’s check them out. 

• The global air freight software market is expected to expand at a CAGR of about 2.3% from 2023 to 2030 and touch $7.41 billion, up from $6.34 billion as recorded in 2023. 
• Over the forecast period of 2023 to 2033, the cargo airlines segment is projected to hold the largest market share. 
• The air freight software market size is predicted to hit a CAGR of approximately 8.2% from 2020 to 2027. 
• The Asia Pacific air freight service market will likely grow at a faster pace from 2023 to 2033. 
• The freight tracking segment will accomplish the largest market share in the forecast period of 2023 to 2033. 

Witnessing the surging air freight services market statistics, you can also expect growth with no fail. So, it’s the best time to get in by investing in freight management software development for your business. The promising future awaits you!

Types Of Air Freight Management Software Development

Air freight management software manages numerous jobs, such as large freight shipment management, transportation management, freight management, logistics management, air cargo logistics, etc. 

Here, we will talk about what types of air freight management software development you can choose per your specific business needs. 

1. Freight Tracking Software

Freight tracking software helps users to get real-time visibility of their shipment movements. By maximizing the use of GPS technology and integrating it with the carrier system, such software facilitates users in checking their cargo status and monitoring its location from the dispatch location to its destination. 

2. Cargo Management Systems

Cargo management software arrives with a complete solution for managing every aspect relevant to air freight operations. Such systems manage tasks like booking shipments, tracking shipments, shipping document generation, and handling customs clearance. 

3. Route Optimization Tools

Route optimization tools allow businesses to pick the most efficient route for air freight shipments based on transit time, distance, and cost. Ahed, companies can optimize routes, lower transportation charges, and enhance delivery times. 

4. Inventory Management Solutions

With Inventory management solutions, users can track and manage their inventory levels, especially for time-sensitive air freight solutions. Such solutions are best at providing accurate stock level optimization, inventory forecasting, and efficient warehouse management. 

5. Customs Clearance Software

Customs clearance software helps businesses with the automated process of clearing goods through customs. Also, it smoothens customs documentation, calculates duties and taxes, and manages compliance needs. Thus, the software accelerates the complex clearance procedure. 

6. Freight Billing and Invoicing Systems

Freight billing and invoicing systems automatically generate accurate invoices and billing statements, reducing manual work and errors. These systems are also best at tracking payments, managing accounts receivable, and generating detailed reports on expenses and revenue. 

7. Supply Chain Visibility Platforms

Supply chain visibility platforms offer a comprehensive view of the complete supply chain with air freight operations. Such platforms seamlessly integrate data from varied sources, like warehouses, transportation providers, and customs authorities, to offer real-time insights into the goods flow. 

Benefits Of Developing Air Freight Management Software 

Building air freight management software can help owners and operators, including shippers, exporters, air freight forwarding, airlines, and carriers.

How? Let’s scan the benefits of developing air freight management system software below:

For Owners

Benefit	Description
Enhanced Operational Efficiency	Automates manual tasks, streamlines processes, and reduces paperwork.
Real-Time Tracking and Visibility	Helps in real-time monitoring of shipments, proactive problem-solving, and enhanced decision-making.
Cost Reduction	Optimized routing, diminished transportation costs, and reduced operational expenses.
Data-Driven Decision Making	Access to valuable analytics and insights to inform strategic decisions.
Improved Customer Experience	Improved customer satisfaction via accurate tracking, timely updates, and efficient issue resolution.
Regulatory Compliance	Automated compliance checks, simplified customs clearance, and lowered risk of penalties.

For Operators

Benefit	Description
Simplified Workflow	Automating jobs lessens manual effort and streamlines processes.
Increased Productivity	Quicker task completion, enhanced efficiency, and diminished turnaround time.
Error Reduction	Reduced errors in documentation, data entry, and calculations.
Better Communication	Enhanced communication and partnership among team members and external stakeholders.
Resource Optimization	Optimized use of resources, such as vehicles and personnel.
Safety and Security	Enhanced security measures and risk ease strategies.

Use Cases Of Air Freight Management Software Across Industries

Air freight management software offers numerous benefits to varied industry verticals. 

Below are some critical use cases: 

Industry	Use Cases
E-commerce	Efficient real-time tracking, order fulfillment, optimized shipping routes, international shipping compliance, and inventory management.
Pharmaceutical	Temperature-controlled shipping, product traceability, regulatory compliance, emergency response, and real-time monitoring.
Manufacturing	Supply chain visibility, optimized logistics, just-in-time inventory management, quality control tracking, and international trade compliance.
Retail	Omnichannel logistics, last-mile delivery, inventory management, returns management, and cross-border shipping.
Automotive	Supply chain optimization, reverse logistics, parts logistics, vehicle transportation, and customs clearance.
Food and Beverage	Perishable goods tracking, food safety compliance, temperature control, supply chain traceability, and product recalls.

Features To Consider For Air Freight Management Software Development

A robust air freight management software solution needs to incorporate diverse features to optimize operations, improve visibility, and boost efficiency. To make your air freight management software perform per your expectations, you need to consider essential features. 

We have curated a table of must-have features. Let’s check them out. 

Feature	Description
Real-time Shipment Tracking	Monitor the real-time progress of shipments from source to destination.
Automated Booking System	Facilitate easy booking process by automating tasks such as carrier selection, rate negotiation, and booking confirmation.
Route Optimization	Determine the most efficient routes to decrease transit time and diminish costs.
Cargo Capacity Management	Optimize cargo loading and usage to maximize space and revenue.
Integrated Communication Tools	Allow seamless communication between stakeholders, including shippers, customs brokers, and carriers.
Customizable Reporting and Analytics	Create customized reports to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and identify areas for improvement.
Automated Billing and Invoicing	Automate the generation and processing of billing statements and invoices.
Regulatory Compliance Management	Ensure perfect compliance with international regulations and standards, like security requirements and customs regulations.
Multi-language and Multi-currency Support	Easily manage global operations by supporting multiple languages and currencies.
Document Management System	Handle and store shipping documents, like invoices, air waybills, and customs declarations.
Security and Access Control	Safeguard sensitive data with robust security measures, including access controls and user authentication.
AI and Machine Learning Integration	Maximize the use of AI and machine learning to predict trends, optimize decision-making, and enhance overall efficiency.
Dynamic Pricing Models	Adapt to unstable market conditions and negotiate optimal rates with carriers.
API and Third-party Integrations	Seamlessly integrate with other systems, such as WMS, ERP, and TMS, to simplify workflows.
User-friendly Interface and Mobile Accessibility	Offer an intuitive user interface and mobile app for seamless access and efficient operations.

How To Develop Air Freight Management Software

Developing air freight management software demands an attentive approach, from planning to deployment and support services. 

1. Requirement Analysis and Planning

Identify the features you want to incorporate, define your target audience, and create a project plan accordingly outlining your timeline, milestones, and resource allocation. 

2. Designing User Interface and Experience

Ahead, create a visually appealing and intuitive user interface for your software. Ensure you optimize it to make it easily accessible on varied devices. Keep the navigation clear and straightforward. 

3. Developing Core Functionality and Features

Develop the essential features and functionalities you decided to include in your freight management system software. Some core features are document management, customs clearance automation, etc. 

4. Integration with Third-party Systems (e.g., GPS, ERP)

Integrate your developed software with third-party systems, GPS tracking devices, and carrier APIs to streamline operations, monitor shipment, and access real-time shipping details and rates. 

5. Testing and Quality Assurance

Test every software component and ensure they perform as expected. Also, test the way they interact and collaborate. Validate software’s functionality and usability. 

6. Deployment and Ongoing Maintenance

Pick the apt deployment method, on-premises or cloud-based, based on your business needs. Provide post-deployment support and maintenance services to your clients. Constantly improve your air freight solutions by appending new features and responding to user feedback.

Cost To Develop Air Freight Management Software

The cost of air freight management software development fluctuates depending on various factors. The major ones are software complexity, features and functionalities you want to add, your development team’s region, design, and more. 

An estimated cost to build air freight management software ranges between $30,000 to $300,000. 

Connect with a software development company and put forth your project needs to get an accurate cost. They will consider such factors while deciding a range that suits your needs, budget, and timeframe to avoid any issues. 

Tools And Technologies We Used For Air Freight Management Software Development

The choice of tools and technologies for air freight management software development depends on your project requirements, the development team’s expertise, and your objectives.

We have created a table showcasing the relevant tools and technologies. Have a look! 

Parameter	Tool/Technology
Programming Languages	Python, JavaScript
Frameworks and Libraries	Django, Flask, React, Vue.js
Databases	PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB
Cloud Platforms	AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform
Version Control	Git
Project Management	Jira, Trello
CI/CD Tools	Jenkins, CircleCI
Testing Tools	Selenium, JUnit, PyTest
Communication and Collaboration	Slack, Microsoft Teams
Security Tools	OWASP ZAP

How To Monetize Air Freight Management Software Development

You need to consider various pricing models with value-added services to monetize air freight management software. 

Below are some practical strategies you can watch out for: 

1. Subscription-Based Pricing Model

You can offer tiered subscription plans to users with distinct features and pricing. Include core functionalities in basic plans and advanced ones in premium plans. 

2. Transaction Fees per Shipment

Prefer charging an amount for every shipment process via your software. This model is best for businesses that manage large freight shipments. 

3. Premium Features and Add-Ons

Provide extra features and services at an additional cost, such as premium add-ons, like specialized support and custom integrations. 

4. Data Analytics and Reporting Services

Offer deep data analysis and reporting services to users, helping them gain valuable insights into their routine operations. 

5. Partner Integrations and API Access Fees

Charge a fee for integrating air freight management software with third-party systems and offer API access to developers. 

6. Customization and Implementation Charges

You can offer customization services to modify the software based on client requirements and charge an amount for seamless implementation and training. 

Challenges And Solutions In Developing Air Freight Management Software

While you build air freight management software, you can encounter various challenges. 

Here, we have discussed some major ones with possible solutions. You can consider:

1. Regulatory Compliance

For seamless international shipping, you need to stick to continuously upgrading international regulations and customs needs. 

Solutions: Ensure you stay updated with ever-evolving regulations. Also, build a system that can quickly adapt to changes. 

2. Real-time Data Integration

You may need help integrating real-time data from distinct sources, like air freight logistics providers, airlines, and customs. 

Solution: Make the best use of reliable APIs and data integration tools to ensure streamlined data flow. 

3. Scalability and Performance

With your growing business, your software needs to be capable of handling increasing data volumes and workloads. 

Solution: While designing your software, consider the scalability factor. You can use efficient algorithms and cloud-based infrastructure. 

4. Security and Data Privacy

Customer information, financial data, and sensitive data security should be your priority. 

Solution: Implement robust security measures and comply with data privacy regulations. 

By confronting such challenges and implementing efficient solutions, your development team can create robust freight management system software that drives customer satisfaction and business growth. 

Future Trends In Air Freight Management Software

With the latest technologies empowering the air freight industry, it’s constantly evolving. 

Let’s check out what key trends are fueling the advancement of air freight management software.

1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Leveraging the power of AI and ML, the software can provide predictive analytics, automate tasks, and make data-driven decisions. 

2. Internet of Things (IoT)

Using IoT devices, the software can offer real-time tracking data of shipments. Moreover, the software can monitor equipment conditions and predict maintenance. 

3. Blockchain Technology

With blockchain technology, freight management system software can ensure improved security, boost transparency, and automate contract execution and payment processing. 

4. Cloud-Based Solutions

Using cloud-based solutions, businesses can scale the software quickly and access it from anywhere, thus diminishing IT costs. 

5. Integration with Other Technologies

By integrating your software with other technologies, like robotic systems, you can automate cargo handling and warehouse operations. Besides, drones can also help in remote inspections and last-mile delivery. 

By including such trends, air freight management solutions can help businesses stand out, deliver unique customer service, and boost efficiency. 

How Can EmizenTech Help To Develop Air Freight Management Software

EmizenTech is a leading software development company with years of experience and domain expertise. It offers a complete suite of air freight solutions for air freight management software requirements. 

Key Highlights of Partnering with EmizenTech for Air Freight Management Software Development

• Clutch Awarded
• Engaging Portfolio
• Proven Track Record
• Competitive Pricing
• Faster Time-to-Market
• On-Time Delivery
• Agile Development Approach
• Ongoing Support and Maintenance, etc. 

Partnering with EmizenTech, you can stay ahead of the curve in the air freight industry and deliver unique customer service.

Conclusion

The global air freight software market size will likely boost to $7.41 billion by 2030, with an estimated CAGR of 2.3% from 2022 to 2030. 

If you are devising to grab a noticeable market share, step into building air freight management software for your business and enjoy real-time visibility, improved operational efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and more. 

Contact a software development agency and get services for custom air freight management software development today!

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