The Importance of Building Strong Infrastructure as a Cargo Handler
Article submitted by: Cargo Service Center India – a TIACA Trustee Member
Written by: Tushar Jani
In the complex world of air cargo operations, the cargo terminal stands as the nucleus, serving as the first or last point of the entire process. It is not an exaggeration to say that a strong and efficient cargo terminal is the backbone of the air cargo industry. Let’s explore why building robust infrastructure for cargo handling is of paramount importance.
One of the primary reasons why cargo terminals hold such significance is their crucial role in facilitating cross-border businesses. As goods traverse international borders, the cargo terminal becomes a vital checkpoint where various regulatory and operational procedures are carried out. Compliance with customs and security protocols is meticulously ensured, making the cargo terminal an indispensable gateway for the seamless flow of goods.
Moreover, the security of cargo is of utmost importance, particularly in an era where global trade faces persistent threats. A well-equipped cargo terminal becomes a fortress against potential risks and vulnerabilities. Through advanced scanning technologies, stringent security checks, and surveillance systems, the cargo terminal ensures the safety and integrity of valuable goods.
Storage is another critical function that a cargo terminal fulfils. To accommodate the vast volume of cargo passing through its gates, an efficient storage system is imperative. The terminal must provide ample space for temporary storage before shipment or after arrival. Proper segregation, categorization, and organization of cargo contribute to streamlined operations, minimizing delays, and ensuring efficient workflows.
Efficient handling of cargo is a pivotal aspect of a cargo terminal’s operations. The smooth reception and delivery of goods rely on robust infrastructure and optimized processes. By employing advanced material handling equipment, such as forklifts, Stackers, and conveyor belts, cargo handlers can expedite the movement of goods, reducing handling time and increasing overall productivity.
A cargo terminal must be equipped to handle diverse types of cargo, including temperature-sensitive goods, dangerous materials, valuable cargo, and oversized shipments. Maintaining proper temperature control for perishable items, ensuring the safe handling of hazardous materials, secure handling of Valuable cargo, and accommodating oversized cargo are all critical parameters that a cargo terminal must cater to. Failure to meet these requirements can result in damage to goods, financial losses, and safety hazards.
In times of disaster, a cargo terminal assumes an even more vital role. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods, can disrupt supply chains and hamper the movement of goods. A well-built cargo terminal, equipped with contingency plans and emergency response systems, can swiftly adapt to such situations, and ensure the continuous flow of essential commodities, aid, and relief supplies.
Additionally, the cargo terminal plays a significant role in the unification of cargo on Unit Load Devices (ULDs). By effectively utilizing aircraft spaces, cargo handlers can optimize the capacity of each flight, reducing costs and maximizing efficiency. This unification process, carried out within the cargo terminal, requires careful planning, coordination, and expertise.
To sum up, the importance of building strong infrastructure as a cargo handler cannot be overstated. The cargo terminal serves as the vital nucleus of air cargo operations, facilitating cross-border businesses, ensuring the security of cargo, providing storage facilities, enabling smooth reception and delivery, handling diverse types of cargo, playing a critical role during disasters, and unifying cargo on ULDs. By investing in robust infrastructure, the air cargo industry can enhance efficiency, reliability, and security, thereby fostering economic growth and global trade.