FAQ's
Domestic Air Freight
At Express Cargo, we make shipping simple and transparent. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from our customers.
What does it mean that Express Cargo is a “Known Shipper” with the airlines?
Express Cargo is recognised by domestic airlines as a Known Shipper, meaning we operate under approved aviation security and freight handling procedures.
This status allows freight we manage to:
• Be accepted by airlines more efficiently
• Move through the domestic air freight network with fewer delays
• Be handled in accordance with airline and aviation security requirements
For customers, this means more reliable uplift, particularly on time-critical domestic shipments.
How is freight carried on domestic flights within New Zealand?
On New Zealand domestic flights, freight is carried in the lower cargo hold (underbelly) of passenger aircraft, alongside checked luggage.
What cargo containers are used on domestic jet flights and are containers used on regional aircraft?
Domestic jet aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and A321 use AKH containers. AKH containers are:
• Purpose-built for narrow-body aircraft
• Smaller and lower than international containers
• Commonly used on flights between major NZ centres
Regional turboprop aircraft do not use cargo containers or pallets. Freight on regional services is bulk loaded by hand due to stricter size and weight limits. Typically suited to smaller cartons and parcels.
Is domestic air freight secure?
Yes. All domestic freight is handled under strict airline and aviation safety procedures, including weight limits, securing methods, and screening requirements.
How is freight loaded on these aircraft?
Freight is:
• Carried through a small cargo door
• Loaded piece-by-piece into the cargo hold
• Positioned carefully to meet aircraft balance and weight limits
• Secured using straps and restraints approved for the aircraft type
Because of this, loading and unloading takes longer than on jet aircraft and size limits are stricter.
What types of freight are suitable for ATR72 and Q300 aircraft and what are the size and weight limits?
These aircrafts are best suited for:
• Cartons and boxed freight
• Small parcels
• Lightweight general cargo
• Courier and express consignments
• Urgent domestic shipments
Because freight is bulk loaded, restrictions are tighter than on jet aircraft:
• Individual items must be small enough to fit through the cargo door
• Heavy or oversized items may not be accepted
• Multiple small pieces are preferred over single large items
Oversized, long, or awkwardly shaped freight is usually restricted or rerouted onto jet aircrafts or moved by road transport instead. our team reviews each shipment to ensure it can safely travel on the assigned aircraft type.
Is freight secure on ATR72 and Q300 aircraft?
Yes. Even though freight is bulk loaded, it is:
• Carefully positioned
• Properly restrained
• Loaded in accordance with airline and aviation safety standards
• Safety and aircraft balance requirements are always prioritised.
Why are ATR72 and Q300 aircraft widely used in New Zealand?
These aircraft are ideal for New Zealand conditions because they:
• Operate efficiently on short regional routes
• Access smaller airports with shorter runways
• Provide reliable freight access to regional centres
• They play a key role in keeping regional New Zealand connected.