There is considerable variability in the utilization rates in facilities depending on a number of factors that include, amount and type of cargo facilities needed at an airport, size of the airport, whether the airport serves as a hub, the type of cargo to be moved, the characteristics of the cargo operators, the average length of dwell time, and various other factors. Utilization rates are measured by tonnage per square footage. It is not surprising that utilization rates at smaller airports are often less than at larger airports. The average utilization rate for small airports is approximately 0.5 tons per square foot while the utilization rate at large airports is frequently in excess of 1.0 tons per square foot. This implies there is some level of critical mass regardless of volume. Facility planning for any airport needs to consider both the utilization rates at comparable airports and input from the carriers before determining the rate for long-term facility requirements. For general planning purposes, it is recommended that a utilization rate of one ton per square foot be used as a macro benchmark, subject to the specific requirements or circumstances of an airport. However, when dealing with an individual carrier, and particularly an integrator, develop a careful estimate of their actual physical requirements.