KLM tracking

What is KLM Cargo?

KLM Cargo is the air freight division of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, the national airline of the Netherlands and one of the oldest airlines in the world still in operation. Founded in 1919, KLM developed air freight services early on, making KLM Cargo a historic player in international air cargo. Today, this division operates under the commercial brand Air France KLM Martinair Cargo, the result of the progressive integration of air cargo activities within the Air France-KLM group.

The history of air freight at KLM dates back to the company's early years. From the 1920s onwards, KLM transported mail and merchandise on its routes, notably between the Netherlands and former Dutch colonies. In 1924, the company inaugurated one of the first intercontinental air links connecting Amsterdam to Jakarta in Indonesia, carrying passengers, postal mail and freight over a distance considered exceptional for the era. This aviation pioneer continued to develop its cargo network over the decades, transitioning to jet aircraft in the late 1950s to accelerate international commercial trade.

A major turning point in KLM Cargo's history came in 2004 with the merger between KLM and Air France, creating the Air France-KLM group. The cargo operations of the two airlines were then progressively unified to create a common entity. In 2005, cargo commercial and operational teams were integrated, forming a unified cargo network that became the world's largest non-integrated air freight operator. The group was further strengthened by Martinair, a Dutch company specializing in freight in which KLM had held stakes since the 1960s and became the majority shareholder in 2008.

• Founded: 1919, making KLM one of the oldest airlines in the world with over a century of history in air transport
• Parent Company: Air France-KLM group, one of the world's leading airline groups listed on stock exchanges in Paris and Amsterdam
• Headquarters: Amstelveen, Netherlands, immediately adjacent to Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport
• Annual Volume: Nearly one million tonnes of freight transported annually by the Air France-KLM-Martinair Cargo group
• Global Network: Over 300 destinations served in more than 110 countries across six continents

KLM Cargo's market positioning is based on a strategic alliance with Air France Cargo and Martinair Cargo, enabling the company to offer a network with dual hubs at Amsterdam-Schiphol and Paris-Charles de Gaulle. This unique European configuration provides customers with optimal flexibility and unmatched global connectivity. In 2023, the group also concluded a strategic partnership with CMA CGM Air Cargo to further expand its air freight capacity and network, illustrating KLM Cargo's constant drive for innovation and development.

Which countries does KLM Cargo deliver to?

KLM Cargo benefits from one of the world's most extensive air freight networks thanks to its integration within Air France KLM Martinair Cargo. Operating from its two main hubs at Amsterdam-Schiphol in the Netherlands and Paris-Charles de Gaulle in France, the carrier serves over 300 destinations spread across more than 110 countries on six continents. This exceptional geographic coverage allows freight to be sent to virtually any point on the globe.

In Europe, KLM Cargo ensures complete coverage of all countries on the continent, from major economic metropolises to regional destinations. Daily connections between Amsterdam and Europe's major capitals guarantee short transit times for intra-European freight. The strategic position of Schiphol Airport, at the heart of Western Europe, makes it an ideal platform for distributing goods throughout the continent.

Internationally, KLM Cargo relies on a combination of all-cargo flights and long-haul passenger flights to offer global connectivity. KLM's historical presence in distant markets such as Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean, Latin America and East Africa, combined with Air France's connections to North America and Francophone Africa, provides unparalleled global coverage.

• Europe: Complete coverage of the European Union and neighboring countries, with high frequencies to all major economic capitals on the continent
• North America: Daily connections to the United States and Canada, notably New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, San Francisco, Toronto and Montreal
• Latin America: Service to major destinations on the South American continent, including Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Colombia and Peru
• Asia-Pacific: Dense network in Asia with connections to China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia
• Middle East: Connections to the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Israel and other countries in the region
• Africa: Broad coverage of the African continent, notably South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Morocco and Egypt
• Oceania: Connections to Australia and New Zealand

Beyond its own network, KLM Cargo extends its reach through membership in the SkyTeam Cargo alliance, which groups 11 partner airlines. This alliance provides access to additional destinations through capacity-sharing agreements with carriers such as Delta Cargo, Korean Air Cargo, China Southern Cargo and Aeroméxico Cargo. A recently signed strategic partnership with China Southern Cargo provides customers with extended access to the Asia-Pacific region network.

The partnership with Kenya Airways Cargo also strengthens coverage of the African continent, while the agreement with CMA CGM Air Cargo concluded in 2023 further expands capacity and routing options. KLM Cargo customers can thus ship their goods to more than 150 countries with the guarantee of handling in an integrated and reliable network.

What are KLM Cargo's delivery services and timeframes?

KLM Cargo offers a complete range of air freight transport services tailored to the varied needs of professional shippers. The cargo division of the Air France-KLM group has developed several service levels to meet the speed, reliability and specialization requirements of its international clientele. Whether general cargo, urgent shipments or goods requiring special attention, KLM Cargo has appropriate solutions.

Standard service is the base offering for transporting non-perishable and non-urgent goods. This economical option allows general freight to be transported with reliable and competitive transit times. Standard shipments benefit from the regular Air France KLM Martinair Cargo network and its numerous flight frequencies to global destinations. Delivery times generally range between 1 and 20 days depending on the destination, type of goods and applicable customs formalities.

For urgent shipments and critical goods, KLM Cargo offers express services guaranteeing reduced transit times. These priority solutions benefit from accelerated handling at each stage of the logistics chain, from acceptance to unloading including connections. Priority loading on available flights minimizes waiting times and ensures delivery within the shortest possible timeframe.

• Standard Service: Economical solution for general freight with transit times of 3 to 10 days to major destinations, suitable for shipments without strict time constraints
• Express Service: Priority handling for urgent shipments with guaranteed loading on the first available flight and reduced transit times of 1 to 3 days to major destinations
• Custom Service: Personalized logistics solutions for specific requests including chartered cargo flights, oversized transport or special handling requirements
• Specialized Solutions: Dedicated services for pharmaceutical products, perishable goods, live animals, dangerous goods and valuables with adapted protocols

Actual delivery times depend on several factors: the final destination, the chosen service type, flight availability, any necessary connections and customs formalities. For direct connections between European hubs and major global cities, transit times can be as short as 24 to 48 hours. For more distant destinations or requiring connections, times generally extend to 3 to 7 business days.

KLM Cargo does not offer weekend delivery in the traditional sense, as air freight is intended for professionals rather than individuals. However, cargo flights operate seven days a week, and goods can be routed and made available for collection including Saturdays and Sundays according to the opening hours of the destination airport cargo terminals.

What are KLM Cargo's rates and maximum accepted dimensions?

Air freight rates at KLM Cargo are determined according to a complex pricing grid that takes into account many parameters. Unlike messaging services intended for individuals, air freight transport is for professionals and prices are generally negotiated within commercial contracts or quoted on a case-by-case basis depending on the characteristics of each shipment.

Air freight pricing is based on the concept of chargeable weight, which corresponds to the higher of the actual weight of the goods and their volumetric weight. Volumetric weight is calculated by dividing the shipment's volume by a standard conversion factor of the air cargo industry. This method accounts for both the weight and size of goods in aircraft cargo holds.

Air France KLM Martinair Cargo has adopted a modern dynamic pricing approach allowing freight forwarders to access real-time market rates via the WebCargo platform. This innovative system offers immediate visibility on prices, capacity availability and allows for securing reservations on specific flights. Over 91% of reservations are now made digitally via the myCargo platform.

• Price Factors: The rate depends on chargeable weight (actual or volumetric), destination, chosen service type, nature of the goods and any additional services required
• Applicable Surcharges: Fuel surcharges, security, special handling and seasonal surcharges may apply to the base rate depending on market conditions
• Custom Quotation: To obtain an accurate quote, it is recommended to contact the sales department directly or an approved freight forwarder with full shipment details
• Local Conditions: Rates and conditions vary by origin and destination countries, with specific local pricing grids

Regarding maximum accepted dimensions and weight, KLM Cargo can transport cargo of varying sizes thanks to its diversified fleet. All-cargo aircraft Boeing 777F and Boeing 747-400F offer payload capacity exceeding 100 tonnes per flight, allowing transport of large and heavy goods. The cargo holds of long-haul passenger aircraft Boeing 787, Airbus A350 and Boeing 777 complement this capacity for more modest sized shipments.

For standard shipments transported in passenger aircraft holds, dimensions are limited by cargo door openings and cargo space configuration. Individual packages must generally comply with maximum dimensions of around 150 cm x 150 cm x 150 cm, although variations exist depending on aircraft types. The maximum unit weight per package is generally 150 kg for shipments in passenger holds.

For oversized, extra-large or particularly heavy goods, KLM Cargo offers tailored solutions including transport on all-cargo aircraft with greater loading capacity. Shipments exceeding 32 kg unit weight or 300 cm cumulative dimensions require a specific request to the cargo service. Special handling equipment and adapted pallets allow loading of industrial parts, aircraft engines, vehicles or other exceptional cargo.

What are KLM Cargo's delivery options?

KLM Cargo offers several delivery and goods availability options to meet the logistics needs of its professional customers. The air freight distribution model differs fundamentally from parcel services for individuals: shipments are generally routed airport-to-airport, with final delivery organized by the recipient or their freight agent.

The standard option consists of making goods available at the cargo terminal of the destination airport. Once the freight arrives and customs clearance formalities are completed, the shipment is stored in the cargo terminal warehouses awaiting collection by the recipient or their representative. A notice of availability is transmitted electronically to notify of the goods' availability.

For customers seeking an end-to-end solution, KLM Cargo works with a network of logistics partners and freight forwarders that can ensure final delivery to the recipient's address. These door-to-door services complement the main air transport and allow complete logistics chain management, from collection at the shipper to final delivery.

• Airport Availability: Goods are available for collection at the cargo terminal of the destination airport after customs clearance, standard air freight solution
• Door-to-Door Delivery: Complementary service including collection, air transport and final delivery to the recipient's address, organized via the network's logistics partners
• Temporary Storage: Possibility to keep goods in the cargo terminal warehouses for a determined period before collection, subject to storage fees
• Transfer Under Customs: For goods in transit or requiring customs clearance at a location different from the arrival airport

The myCargo digital platform allows shippers and freight forwarders to manage their shipments online independently. This web portal available 24 hours a day offers the ability to book shipments, submit necessary documents, track packages in real time and manage any irregularities. Proactive notifications are sent at each key transport stage to keep customers informed of their shipments' progress.

For urgent shipments or those requiring special attention, priority handling options are available. The Fast Track service guarantees accelerated handling upon arrival with faster goods availability. These options are particularly suited to time-sensitive shipments such as industrial spare parts, medical samples or urgent documents.

KLM Cargo also offers rescheduling and rerouting solutions for shipments whose delivery plans must be modified during transport. These services provide valuable flexibility to manage unforeseen circumstances and adapt routing to customers' evolving needs.

What should I do if my KLM Cargo shipment is lost or damaged?

In the event of loss or damage to a shipment transported by KLM Cargo, a clearly defined claims procedure allows shippers and recipients to assert their rights. Air freight transport is governed by international conventions that establish the carrier's responsibilities and applicable compensation limits.

The first step in the event of a problem is to report the incident immediately upon receipt or upon discovery of damage. For damaged goods, it is imperative to lodge written reservations at the time of collection at the cargo terminal and to document the damage with photographs. An irregularity report must be filed as soon as possible, ideally within 48 hours of the goods' availability.

For goods declared lost, KLM Cargo generally applies a 21-day period after the scheduled flight date before officially considering the shipment lost. During this period, searches are conducted throughout the network to attempt to locate missing goods. If the freight is not found after this period, the compensation procedure can be initiated.

• Reporting Deadline: Apparent damage must be reported immediately upon receipt, latent damage within 14 days, and losses after 21 days without shipment news
• Required Documents: Air waybill (AWB), commercial invoice for goods, damage photos if applicable, irregularity report, proof of goods value
• Claims Form: A written request detailing circumstances, nature of damage or loss, and claimed compensation amount must be submitted to the claims service
• Filing Deadline: The claim must be filed within a maximum of two years from the scheduled arrival date, in accordance with international conventions

Compensation in case of loss or damage is governed by the 1999 Montreal Convention, which establishes a cap on air carrier liability. This cap is set at 22 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) per kilogram of goods, approximately 27 to 30 euros per kilogram depending on exchange rate. For a 100 kg shipment, maximum compensation would thus be approximately 2,800 euros, regardless of the actual value of transported goods.

For goods valued above these legal limits, KLM Cargo offers the possibility of making a special declaration of interest in delivery at the time of shipment. Subject to payment of a tariff supplement, the shipper can declare a higher value that will serve as the basis for compensation in case of loss. This additional insurance option is highly recommended for high-value goods, sensitive equipment or difficult-to-replace items.

Claims can be submitted to Air France KLM Martinair Cargo's customer service by mail, email or via the myCargo platform. The email contact address is [email protected] and the customer service phone number in the Netherlands is +31 20 721 94 49. Claims processing times vary depending on file complexity, but a response is generally provided within a few weeks.

Does KLM Cargo handle international shipments and customs formalities?

KLM Cargo is by nature an international air freight carrier, and managing cross-border shipments constitutes the core of its business. With a network serving over 110 countries, the company has in-depth expertise in transporting goods across borders and navigating the customs regulations of different countries.

For international shipments, several types of documents are generally required to accompany goods. The air waybill (AWB) is the main transport document, serving as a contract between shipper and carrier. KLM Cargo is among the pioneering carriers using electronic air waybill (e-AWB), reducing paper usage and accelerating shipment processing.

Beyond the transport document, international shipments require specific customs documents: commercial invoice detailing the nature and value of goods, packing list describing the precise contents of each package, certificates of origin where applicable, and any regulatory documents specific to the merchandise type (health certificates, phytosanitary certificates, export licenses, etc.).

• Electronic Air Waybill: KLM Cargo systematically uses e-AWB for shipments, accelerating formalities and reducing documentary error risks
• ICS2 System: Compliance with the European import control system ICS2 requiring advance electronic transmission of freight data for goods entering the European Union
• Trade Sanctions: Systematic verification of shipments against international trade sanctions and applicable export restrictions
• E-Freight Documentation: Development of paperless air freight in collaboration with customs authorities to facilitate international trade

Regarding customs formalities proper, KLM Cargo ensures freight transport but does not substitute for customs declarants. Import and export customs clearance remain generally the responsibility of the shipper, recipient or their authorized customs agent. However, the company works closely with customs authorities and can facilitate procedures through its electronic tools and status as a trusted economic operator.

Customs duties, import duties and taxes applicable to imported goods are the responsibility of the recipient or shipper depending on agreed commercial terms (Incoterms). These fees are not included in KLM Cargo's transport rates and must be paid directly to customs authorities or the customs clearance agent. Customs clearance times vary by country, goods nature and documentation compliance, potentially adding from a few hours to several days to the total delivery time.

For shipments to European Union member countries from another member state, customs formalities are simplified through the single market. Goods circulate freely without customs duties or complex declarations. Conversely, for shipments to third countries or from countries outside the European Union, complete customs procedures apply with potential goods inspection and payment of applicable duties and taxes.

Certain types of goods are subject to import or export restrictions or prohibitions depending on countries. KLM Cargo verifies shipment compliance with applicable regulations and may refuse transport of non-compliant or embargoed goods. It is the shipper's responsibility to ensure that their goods can legally be exported from the country of origin and imported into the destination country.

What types of goods does KLM Cargo transport?

KLM Cargo is recognized for its expertise in transporting a wide variety of goods, from general cargo to the most sensitive products requiring specific transport conditions. The cargo division of the Air France-KLM group has developed dedicated protocols and infrastructure for several specialized freight categories, enabling it to meet the strictest requirements of different industrial sectors.

Transport of pharmaceutical and medical products is one of KLM Cargo's areas of excellence. The sorting centers at Amsterdam-Schiphol and Paris-Charles de Gaulle are IATA CEIV Pharma certified, a prestigious certification guaranteeing cold chain maintenance and compliance with good pharmaceutical practices throughout the journey. KLM Cargo was one of the first airlines to obtain this certification in 2016 and has renewed it several times since. The group's Pharma network covers over 270 stations worldwide with high frequencies, offering the sector's most extensive coverage.

Fresh and perishable products represent another historical specialty of KLM Cargo. The proximity of Schiphol Airport to Royal FloraHolland, the world's largest flower market, has forged unique expertise in transporting cut flowers. Refrigerated warehouses, special containers and priority handling are in place to quickly transport perishable goods while preserving their freshness and quality.

• Pharmaceutical Products: Medicines, vaccines, clinical samples and medical equipment transported in compliance with cold chain with CEIV Pharma certification
• Fresh Products: Cut flowers, fruits and vegetables, seafood, meat and other perishable goods requiring temperature control
• Live Animals: Transport of pets, competition horses, breeding animals and rare species in compliance with IATA Live Animals regulations
• Dangerous Goods: Chemicals, flammable substances, lithium batteries and other regulated materials according to IATA DGR regulations
• Valuables: Jewelry, artwork, luxury watches, high-end electronics benefiting from enhanced security measures
• Industrial Equipment: Aerospace spare parts, industrial machinery, heavy equipment and oversized cargo
• Automobiles: Luxury vehicles, prototype vehicles and racing cars transported with specific protections
• Mail and Postal Freight: International mail and postal packages transport in partnership with national postal operators

Transport of live animals is handled with great care, whether for pets traveling with their owners, competition horses being transported to sporting events or breeding animals destined for reproduction. KLM Cargo has an animal transit center called Animal Hotel at Schiphol Airport, offering dedicated space for rest, feeding and veterinary care if necessary during stopovers or waiting for connections.

For dangerous goods, KLM Cargo is authorized to transport regulated materials in compliance with IATA DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations). Its personnel are trained in safe handling of these special shipments, and each shipment is carefully verified, packaged and stored according to strict protocols. The myCargo platform now offers simplified dangerous goods declaration management to facilitate shipper procedures.

What are KLM Cargo's quality certifications and guarantees?

KLM Cargo relies on a set of certifications and quality standards that demonstrate its commitment to operational excellence and the safety of transported goods. These internationally recognized accreditations guarantee customers a level of service compliant with best practices in the air cargo industry.

IATA CEIV Pharma certification represents one of the most prestigious accreditations obtained by KLM Cargo. This certification, issued by the International Air Transport Association, validates all processes for handling pharmaceutical products. It guarantees that medicines, vaccines and other sensitive health products are transported under controlled temperature conditions throughout the logistics chain. KLM Cargo is part of the Pharma Gateway Amsterdam association, bringing together all players in the pharmaceutical supply chain at Schiphol Airport.

On the security front, KLM Cargo holds the status of Regulated Agent in the European Union. This status attests that the carrier applies safety standards defined by European authorities to prevent any risk related to air freight transport. All shipments undergo rigorous controls before loading: X-ray inspection, explosive detection and enhanced security controls for valuable or sensitive shipments.

• IATA CEIV Pharma: Certification for pharmaceutical product transport guaranteeing cold chain maintenance and compliance with good pharmaceutical practices
• EU Regulated Agent: Air safety status allowing secure freight handling in compliance with European regulations
• IATA e-AWB: Participation in the electronic air waybill program for freight document dematerialization
• SkyTeam Cargo: Alliance member allowing quality standard harmonization between partner airlines
• ISO 9001: Quality management system certification for certain processes and services

KLM Cargo's facilities at Amsterdam-Schiphol and Paris-Charles de Gaulle meet the highest standards for cargo infrastructure. Warehouses total over 200,000 square meters of storage and handling space, with temperature-controlled areas for sensitive products. Facilities surveillance is assured 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, with strict access control, security cameras and teams dedicated to valuable freight.

The Air France-KLM-Martinair Cargo group has received several distinctions in the air cargo sector, testifying to recognition from peers and customers. The group has repeatedly won the Airline of the Year - Europe award at the World Air Cargo Awards, confirming the group's leadership in the European air cargo market.

Service quality is monitored rigorously through key performance indicators. KLM Cargo notably measures on-time delivery rate, shipment integrity rate (absence of damage) and customer satisfaction. Regular audits verify compliance with procedures and identify continuous improvement opportunities.

How does KLM Cargo shipment tracking work?

KLM Cargo provides its customers with real-time tracking tools enabling them to follow their goods' routing at each transport stage. Traceability is an essential service element, offering transparency and peace of mind to air freight shippers and recipients.

Each shipment transported by KLM Cargo is assigned a unique air waybill number called Air Waybill (AWB). This standard 11-digit number serves as an identifier for tracking the shipment throughout its journey. The first three digits correspond to the airline's IATA code, the following eight being the shipment's sequential number.

The myCargo platform is the primary tracking tool for KLM Cargo customers. This online portal accessible 24 hours a day allows entering the AWB number and instantly obtaining updated information on shipment status. The interface displays the complete history of stages completed, the cargo's current position and upcoming planned stages.

• Online Tracking: Access tracking information via the myCargo platform or Air France KLM Martinair Cargo website by entering the AWB number
• Proactive Notifications: Automatic alerts sent by email at each key transport stage: receipt, departure, arrival, availability
• Mobile Tracking: Consulting tracking information from a smartphone or tablet via the responsive web interface
• EDI Integration: For professional customers, possibility to integrate tracking data directly into their IT systems via electronic data exchanges

KLM Cargo uses advanced tracking technologies to guarantee the accuracy of information transmitted to customers. Barcode scanners record each cargo handling, and RFID tags are used on certain containers for even more precise tracking. Updates are automated and reflect the shipment's actual situation with minimal delay.

In case of irregularity or delay, the tracking system allows customers to be informed quickly and take necessary measures. The myCargo platform also offers anomaly management features allowing problem reporting and resolution tracking. With over 85% of reservations now being made digitally, the entire documentary chain is dematerialized and accessible online.

How do I contact KLM Cargo?

KLM Cargo provides its customers with several contact channels to answer questions, manage shipments and handle any potential claims. Customer service is organized on an international scale with teams present in the main geographic areas covered by the network.

The main contact point for air freight questions is Air France KLM Martinair Cargo's customer service. The general email contact address is [email protected], allowing for information requests, rate inquiries or claims. The Netherlands headquarters phone number is +31 20 721 94 49, accessible during business hours.

In France, KLM's claims service is reachable at 09 69 39 36 54, a non-premium number available Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm. KLM's general customer service in France can be contacted at 09 69 36 86 05. These lines primarily concern passenger baggage questions but can direct to appropriate cargo services.

• Cargo Email: [email protected] for all air freight questions
• Netherlands Phone: +31 20 721 94 49, Air France KLM Martinair Cargo headquarters number
• myCargo Platform: Online customer space allowing shipment management, tracking and support contact
• KLM WhatsApp: +31 20 649 07 87, service available 24/7 for general questions
• Website: www.afklcargo.com, comprehensive portal with information, online booking and contact forms

The myCargo platform offers an integrated contact form allowing specific requests to be addressed with all information necessary for rapid handling. This channel is particularly suited for technical questions, quote requests or follow-up on ongoing claims.

For claims requiring formal procedure, mail can be sent to KLM's Netherlands headquarters at the following address: Amsterdamseweg 55, 1182 GP Amstelveen, Netherlands. In France, KLM's postal address is: KLM France, 41 rue de Paris, Tremblay-en-France, 95747 Roissy CDG Cedex.

In case of unresolved disputes through normal channels, European customers can contact the Tourism and Travel Mediator (MTV) if their company is a signatory to the mediation charter. The contact address is: MTV - Médiation Tourisme Voyage, Service dépôt des saisines, BP 80303, 75823 Paris Cedex 17. This free recourse allows seeking an amicable solution before any legal proceedings.

Social media also constitute a contact channel with KLM, particularly via Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Messenger. These platforms are particularly responsive for simple questions and allow obtaining quick answers to general information requests.

Understanding tracking statuses

When tracking a KLM Cargo shipment online, different statuses may appear throughout your merchandise's journey. These statuses correspond to key stages of air freight transport and allow visualizing shipment progression from pickup to final delivery. Here are the main statuses and their meaning: