The air component is only part of this equation. Shippers are looking at service providers that can handle and coordinate transportation to and from airports as well. Given current capacity and fuel concerns, the multimodal aspect is equally important in driving down costs.
"We offer more options for ocean and trucking due to cost savings from air cargo, especially with current security and fuel surcharges," says Gerry Post, chief operating officer, Concert Group Logistics (CGL), a Downers Grove, Ill.-based transportation logistics provider.