In international air freight, M/N rates are two important concepts in the air cargo price list, representing different methods and standards for freight calculation.
M Rate
Definition: M stands for Minimum Charge, which means the minimum rate, or the minimum charge. This is the lowest freight that an airline will accept for a shipment.
Background: There are various fixed costs associated with operating flights, and space is limited. Therefore, if the carrier charges less than this minimum rate, it would not cover the transportation costs.
Application: The M rate ensures that the carrier's transportation costs are covered, regardless of the actual weight or volume of the goods, the freight will not be lower than this minimum standard.
N Rate
Definition: N stands for Normal, which is short for Normal Rate, meaning the basic freight rate for goods, often referred to as the small cargo rate, i.e., the freight rate for goods weighing less than 45 kg.
Conditions: To qualify for the N rate, both conditions must be met: the goods weigh less than 45 kg, and they must be ordinary goods. If the goods are special commodities or classified goods, this rate may not apply.
Calculation: In practice, if the weight of the goods is less than 45 kg, the freight per kilogram is typically calculated at the N rate. However, this freight level cannot be lower than the M rate, i.e., the minimum freight.
General Explanation
In the air freight price list, M and N represent two basic methods of freight calculation, corresponding to the carrier's minimum freight guarantee and the small cargo rate standard.
When consulting about air freight quotes, customers need to provide information such as the weight, volume, and description of the goods, so that Unitex International Air Freight can determine the applicable freight standard based on this information.
In addition to M and N rates, the air freight price list may also include other freight codes, such as Q (representing the normal freight rate for goods over 45 kg), C (specified commodity rate), S (additional freight rate for classified goods), etc. These freight codes all represent different methods and standards for freight calculation.
In summary, M/N rates play a significant role in international air freight, providing a benchmark for freight calculation for airlines and clear freight expectations for customers. For inquiries about freight rates for Southeast Asia, Europe, the Mediterranean, South America, and other routes, please contact Unitex International Air Freight!