The recent technological and logistical advances in the Air Cargo industry have not significantly altered transit loss exposures. Shipments are still subject to hazardous conditions in-flight and on the ground. These conditions combined with shippers' tendency toward reduced packaging (thus unit weight) and similar cost savings do not create the ideal loss control environment.
Active cooperation between shipper and carrier is a requisite for effective air cargo loss control. The direct control they exert on shipments implies their considerable influence.
This paper introduces positive steps, both shipper and carrier can take to prevent or minimize cargo loss. These steps, or opportunities, are arranged in a framework the respective management teams can recognize and adopt. We are not presuming supererogatory efforts but instead, a heightened awareness of their responsibilities: shipper to consignee, carrier to shipper and shipper and carrier to world trade.