LATAM Cargo tracking

What is LATAM Cargo?

LATAM Cargo is the air freight division of LATAM Airlines Group, the largest carrier in Latin America. This air cargo transportation company has established itself as the undisputed leader in air freight on the South American continent, offering a comprehensive range of logistics services to transport goods of all kinds to destinations around the world. Based in Miami, United States for its international operations and equipped with strategic hubs in Santiago, Chile, São Paulo and Bogotá, LATAM Cargo combines deep local expertise with truly global reach.

The history of LATAM Cargo dates back to 1970, the year LAN Cargo was created following the separation of cargo and passenger operations from LAN-Chile. The company as we know it today was born from the historic merger between LAN Airlines of Chile and TAM Linhas Aéreas of Brazil. On August 13, 2010, the two companies signed a first non-binding merger agreement, followed by a final agreement in January 2011. The merger was officially completed on June 22, 2012, giving birth to LATAM Airlines Group. It was not until May 2016 that the unified LATAM Cargo brand was officially launched, bringing together the former entities LAN Cargo, TAM Cargo, LAN Cargo Colombia and MasAir under a single commercial identity.

• Date of creation: 1970 for LAN Cargo, 2012 for the LAN-TAM merger, 2016 for the launch of the LATAM Cargo brand
• Parent company: LATAM Airlines Group, the largest airline group in Latin America
• Headquarters: Miami, United States (international operations), with regional offices in Santiago, Chile, São Paulo and Bogotá
• Main subsidiaries: LATAM Cargo Chile, LATAM Cargo Brasil and LATAM Cargo Colombia
• Cargo fleet: 20 Boeing 767-300F dedicated to freight, plus access to cargo holds of over 300 passenger aircraft from the group
• Network: Over 155 destinations in 30 countries around the world

LATAM Cargo's strategic positioning is based on its domination of the Latin American market combined with exceptional global connectivity. The company has leveraged the geographic position of South America to become an essential air bridge between the continent's emerging markets and the world's major economies. Cargo division revenues represent several hundred million dollars per quarter, demonstrating the carrier's positive momentum. Cargo operations account for approximately 12.8% of LATAM Airlines' total revenues, highlighting the strategic importance of this business within the conglomerate.

LATAM Cargo also distinguishes itself through numerous quality certifications. The company was the first in the Americas to obtain IATA's CEIV Pharma certification in 2017, attesting to its expertise in transporting pharmaceutical products. It also holds CEIV Li-Batt certification for safe lithium battery transportation and actively participates in the IEnvA environmental management program for the aviation industry. These accreditations reflect the carrier's commitment to the highest quality and safety standards in the transport of sensitive goods.

Which countries does LATAM Cargo deliver to?

LATAM Cargo operates one of the most extensive air freight networks in Latin America, with coverage extending well beyond the borders of the South American continent. The company serves over 155 destinations in 30 countries, combining strong domestic presence in several key markets with international connections to all continents. This exceptional geographic coverage makes LATAM Cargo an essential logistics partner for companies with shipping needs to or from Latin America.

On the domestic front, LATAM Cargo operates in six national markets across Latin America, offering complete air freight services within each country. This local presence allows the company to offer door-to-door transportation solutions tailored to the specifics of each market, while benefiting from economies of scale through its integrated network. Domestic markets form the backbone of the LATAM Cargo network and serve as collection and distribution points for international shipments.

• Brazil: LATAM Cargo's largest market with hubs at São Paulo-Guarulhos and numerous domestic destinations including Belo Horizonte, Campinas, Curitiba, Recife and São José dos Campos
• Chile: The company's historic market with the main hub at Santiago's Arturo Merino Benítez international airport
• Colombia: Complete country coverage from the Bogotá El Dorado hub, one of Latin America's most dynamic cargo airports
• Ecuador: Coverage of major cities including Quito and Guayaquil, with specialization in fresh produce exports
• Peru: Strong presence from the Lima Jorge Chávez hub, gateway to Andean markets
• Argentina: Buenos Aires coverage with recently doubled capacity to meet growing demand

On the international front, LATAM Cargo has significantly expanded its transatlantic operations in recent years. The company has substantially increased its capacity between Europe and South America, with around fifteen weekly frequencies. New routes have been launched, notably a direct link between Brussels and São José dos Campos, carrying approximately 50 tons of freight per week consisting mainly of industrial products, automotive parts and consumer goods. The São Paulo-Brussels route via Recife has also been optimized to facilitate the export of Brazilian mangoes and other fresh products to the European market.

Toward North America, LATAM Cargo maintains a particularly strong presence in the United States, with Miami serving as a strategic hub for cargo operations. The Miami facility houses one of the continent's largest temperature-controlled infrastructures, essential for the transit of perishable and pharmaceutical goods. The company also serves other major North American destinations including Los Angeles and Boston, offering direct connections to key U.S. consumer markets.

• North America: United States (Miami, Los Angeles, Boston) and Mexico, with enhanced capacity to support the nearshoring phenomenon
• Europe: Connections to major European hubs including Brussels, with regular links to other continental destinations
• Caribbean: Service to many Caribbean islands, facilitating regional trade
• Central America: Coverage including Costa Rica (San José), Guatemala (Guatemala City), Panama and other isthmus countries
• Venezuela: Service to Caracas and Valencia despite the region's logistics challenges
• Oceania and Asia: Connections to Australia, New Zealand and certain Asian destinations via partnerships
• Africa: Links to the African continent, demonstrating the truly global reach of the network

To ensure this worldwide coverage, LATAM Cargo relies on both its own operations and partnership agreements with other carriers. Interline alliances allow the network to extend beyond destinations directly served by the LATAM fleet. Freight can thus be routed to virtually any destination worldwide through these connections, while benefiting from unified tracking and LATAM Cargo's quality guarantee for the entire journey.

What are LATAM Cargo's services and delivery times?

LATAM Cargo offers a comprehensive range of shipping services designed to meet the varied needs of shippers, from the most urgent shipments to cargo that can tolerate longer delivery times. The company has structured its offering around three main service levels, each offering a different balance between speed of transport and cost optimization. This flexibility allows customers to choose the solution best suited to their time and budget constraints for each shipment.

The Express service constitutes LATAM Cargo's premium offering, intended for the most urgent goods requiring the fastest delivery. This service guarantees immediate confirmation of the reservation on selected flights and priority processing at each stage of the logistics process, from initial pickup to final delivery. Transit times generally vary between 1 and 3 business days depending on the destination, making it the ideal solution for critical spare parts, urgent documents or perishable goods with short shelf lives.

• Express Service: 1 to 3 business days, immediate confirmation, priority processing at all stages, ideal for urgent shipments and time-sensitive goods
• Standard Service: 1 to 5 days domestic and 3 to 10 days international, scheduled route with guaranteed reliability, suited to common shipping needs
• Flex Service: Delivery up to two weeks, flexible routing to optimize costs, perfect for less urgent cargo

LATAM Cargo's Standard service represents the balanced offering, combining reasonable delivery times with competitive rates. Domestic shipments are typically delivered within 1 to 5 business days, while international shipments take between 3 and 10 days depending on distances and applicable customs formalities. This service is perfectly suited to regular flows of commercial goods where predictability of delivery times is important without absolute urgency.

The Flex service offers the most economical solution for shippers whose goods can tolerate longer transit times. With delivery guaranteed within up to two weeks depending on the routing, this service allows LATAM Cargo to optimize aircraft loading and offer attractive rates. Flexible routing means cargo can transit through different hubs depending on available capacity, making it a particularly interesting option for large shipments or non-perishable goods.

Beyond these three standard service levels, LATAM Cargo has developed a comprehensive range of specialized solutions under the Care brand to meet the particular requirements of certain types of goods. These services add additional guarantees in terms of handling, temperature or security depending on the nature of the products transported.

• PHARMA: CEIV-Pharma certified service for transporting medicines, vaccines and medical equipment with cold chain maintenance
• FRESH: Dedicated solution for fresh food products, fruits, vegetables and flowers with temperature control throughout transport
• ALIVE: Specialized transport for live animals with suitable containers, controlled ventilation and personnel trained in animal welfare
• SECURE: High security service for valuables (cash, jewelry, artwork, high-end electronics) with enhanced surveillance
• HAZMAT: Transport of dangerous goods in compliance with IATA DGR regulations including chemicals and lithium batteries
• HUMAN REMAINS: Respectful funeral service for the transport of human remains and cremated remains
• POSTAL and COURIER: Optimized solutions for postal shipments and express courier packages with accelerated procedures
• OVERSIZE: Handling of oversized or out-of-gauge cargo with special loading equipment and procedures

Regardless of the service chosen, LATAM Cargo commits to punctuality guarantees. In case of a major unforeseen event causing a delay, the company strives to recover the delay within 24 hours. This commitment to delivery times policy demonstrates the reliability that the carrier endeavors to maintain for all its customers, whether occasional shippers or regular business partners.

What are LATAM Cargo's rates and maximum dimensions?

Freight pricing at LATAM Cargo is based on a complex system taking into account multiple variables to determine the final cost of each shipment. Unlike consumer courier services offering fixed rate grids, professional air freight operates on the basis of personalized quotes taking into account the specifics of each shipment. This approach allows costs to be optimized based on the actual characteristics of the cargo and available capacity on various routes.

The price of a LATAM Cargo shipment depends primarily on the taxable weight of the goods, calculated according to industry standards. Taxable weight corresponds to the maximum between the actual weight of the cargo and its volumetric weight, the latter being calculated according to a standard ratio of 1 ton per 6 cubic meters. This calculation method reflects the fact that air freight is limited by both the load capacity of aircraft and their usable volume, with lightweight but bulky goods occupying precious space onboard.

• Taxable weight: The maximum between the gross weight in kilograms and the volume in cubic meters multiplied by 167 (standard IATA ratio)
• Distance and destination: Rates vary significantly depending on the route, with generally higher prices to distant or less frequent destinations
• Service type: Express, Standard or Flex, each service level being associated with a different rate grid
• Nature of goods: Products requiring special care (temperature controlled, enhanced security, special handling) entail surcharges
• Seasonality: Rates fluctuate depending on demand and available capacity, with peaks during periods of high activity

As an indication, international air freight rates generally ranged between $2.50 and $5.00 per kilogram before the COVID-19 pandemic. Global logistics disruptions led to a significant increase in prices, with rates now ranging between $3 and $7 per kilogram depending on routes and periods. These ranges remain indicative as actual prices depend on many factors specific to each shipment and can vary considerably.

To obtain an accurate quote, LATAM Cargo provides several channels. Customers can use the online quote tool available on the company's website, which allows quick estimates by entering shipment characteristics. For complex shipments or recurring needs, it is recommended to contact LATAM Cargo's sales team directly, who can offer adapted pricing conditions. Freight booking platforms like WebCargo also allow access to real-time rates and comparison of different carriers' offers.

Regarding maximum dimensions and weight accepted, LATAM Cargo can handle a wide range of cargo thanks to its Boeing 767-300F fleet. These cargo aircraft offer a payload capacity of approximately 54 tons and usable volume accommodating goods of significant dimensions. For standard shipments transiting through partner distribution networks, more restrictive limitations may apply, with typical maximum dimensions of 100 cm x 100 cm x 100 cm per package.

• Boeing 767-300F capacity: Maximum payload of approximately 54,000 kg (54 tons) per flight
• Recommended standard dimensions: 100 cm x 100 cm x 100 cm per package for shipments transiting distribution networks
• Oversized freight: Possible via OVERSIZE service with customized solutions including special pallets and containers
• Route-specific restrictions: Weight and dimension limits may vary depending on destination airports and available handling equipment

For cargo exceeding standard dimensions, LATAM Cargo's OVERSIZE service enables transport of out-of-gauge goods. The specialized team evaluates each request individually to determine the best solutions in terms of loading, securing and routing. Certain exceptional shipments may require dedicated cargo flights or special arrangements that will be planned in coordination with the customer.

What are LATAM Cargo's delivery options?

LATAM Cargo offers different delivery modalities and cargo availability options to adapt to the varied logistics needs of its customers. Unlike consumer package delivery services, professional air freight typically involves pickup and delivery at dedicated cargo terminals. Nevertheless, the company has developed solutions to facilitate final routing of cargo to its ultimate destination.

The standard delivery method for LATAM Cargo air freight is availability at cargo terminal. Once arriving at the destination airport, goods are unloaded and placed in the freight terminal's warehouses where the recipient or representative can collect them. This approach offers maximum flexibility as it allows the recipient to arrange final transport according to their own constraints. LATAM Cargo's notification system automatically informs the recipient once goods are available for collection.

• Terminal availability: Pickup of goods from cargo facilities at the destination airport by the recipient or their customs agent
• Door-to-door delivery: Complete service including final ground transport to the recipient's address via logistics partners
• Customs warehouse deposit: Temporary storage of goods pending clearance before final delivery
• Cross-docking services: Fast transfer of goods to ground transport modes without prolonged storage

For customers seeking a complete logistics solution, LATAM Cargo can arrange door-to-door delivery in coordination with ground transport partners. This door-to-door option includes pickup from the shipper, air transport and final delivery to the recipient's address. Freight forwarders and cargo agents play a central role in organizing these integrated services, serving as intermediaries between LATAM Cargo and end customers.

LATAM Cargo's notification system is a key element of the delivery experience. Throughout the cargo journey, automated alerts can be sent by email to concerned parties during key events: reservation confirmed, goods picked up, flight departure, arrival at destination and availability. These notifications allow recipients to precisely plan collection and avoid unnecessary storage fees at the terminal.

• Automatic email notifications: Alerts sent at each major transport stage (departure, arrival, availability)
• Real-time online tracking: Check shipment status via LATAM Cargo web portal anytime
• Proactive incident notification: Quick communication in case of delay or problem requiring customer action
• Customer service coordination: Ability to contact Customer Care team for any delivery questions

For special shipments requiring particular delivery conditions, LATAM Cargo adapts its procedures accordingly. Pharmaceutical products transported via PHARMA service benefit from an uninterrupted cold chain through to recipient delivery, with refrigerated facilities at transit and destination terminals. Live animals in ALIVE service are delivered under conditions guaranteeing their welfare, with priority handling upon arrival to minimize transport-related stress.

Delivery rescheduling remains possible within certain limits for cargo not yet cleared by customs. In case of a change of plan, the customer can contact LATAM Cargo customer service to explore available options, whether modifying the planned collection date or redirecting the goods to another destination. These modifications may incur additional charges and depend on available capacity on the new desired routes.

What if my LATAM Cargo package is lost or damaged?

In case of loss or damage occurring during air transport, LATAM Cargo has structured claims procedures allowing customers to assert their rights and obtain appropriate compensation. International air transport of goods is governed by international conventions, notably the Montreal Convention, which define carrier responsibilities and shipper rights. Understanding these procedures and acting quickly is essential to maximize chances of obtaining redress.

The first step in case of a problem is to observe and document damage or loss upon taking possession of the goods. When collecting at the cargo terminal, it is crucial to carefully inspect packages before signing the delivery note. Any visible anomaly (damaged packaging, impact marks, broken seals) must be immediately reported and noted in writing on the delivery document. In case of missing or damage discovered after opening, it is important to preserve packaging and take photos as evidence.

• Inspection upon receipt: Carefully examine package condition and contents before signing delivery documents
• Written reservations: Note any anomaly on the delivery note in the presence of terminal staff
• Photographic documentation: Take photos of damage, packaging and labels as evidence
• Packaging preservation: Keep all packaging materials that may be needed for assessment

Deadlines for filing a claim are strictly regulated and must be met to avoid forfeiture. For goods arriving damaged, the claim must be filed within 14 days of actual receipt. In case of proven loss (goods never arriving at destination), the deadline is generally 21 days from the date the goods should have been delivered. For significant delays, the claim must be made within 21 days following actual cargo availability.

Filing a claim with LATAM Cargo can be done via the online form available on the company's website or by mail addressed to the claims department. The claim must include a detailed description of the incident, the air waybill number (AWB), the value of damaged or lost goods and supporting documents. The following documents are generally required to support the request:

• Copy of air waybill (AWB): Original document or copy evidencing the shipment
• Commercial invoice: Proof of goods value
• Photos of damage: Visual documentation of goods condition upon receipt
• Inspection or assessment report: If applicable, evaluation of damage by an expert
• Delivery note with reservations: Document signed noting any observed anomalies
• Repair quotes or replacement invoices: Justification of financial loss incurred

LATAM Cargo generally has 30 days to respond to a claim. The company's Customer Care team maintains contact with the claimant to inform them of case progress and request any additional information if needed. In case of a favorable decision, compensation is paid according to agreed terms, within the limits set by international conventions and the company's general conditions of transport.

Compensation amounts are capped by the Montreal Convention at approximately 22 special drawing rights (SDR) per kilogram of goods, roughly $28 to $32 per kilogram depending on exchange rates. For high-value goods, it is strongly recommended to purchase supplemental cargo insurance covering the total shipment value. LATAM Cargo offers cargo insurance options and can direct customers toward coverage solutions suited to their needs.

• Standard compensation: Limited to approximately 22 SDR per kilogram under the Montreal Convention
• Supplemental cargo insurance: Optional coverage for total goods value
• Value declaration: Ability to declare a higher value subject to a tariff surcharge
• Claims contact: Dedicated service accessible via LATAM Cargo website or email

In case of ongoing disagreement with LATAM Cargo's decision on a claim, several remedies exist. Customers can send a registered letter to company headquarters to contest the initial decision. Civil aviation authorities in each country can be contacted in case of the carrier's non-compliance with regulatory obligations. As a last resort, legal action can be brought before competent courts, usually those of the delivery location or the carrier's headquarters.

Does LATAM Cargo handle international shipments and customs formalities?

LATAM Cargo is inherently an international carrier, with the vast majority of its activities involving border crossing and thus customs formalities. The company has developed deep expertise in managing cross-border shipments, whether within Latin America, between the South American continent and North American, European or Asian markets. This international dimension forms the core of LATAM Cargo's business and differentiates its offering from national parcel carriers.

For international shipments, LATAM Cargo offers several service types adapted to different destination market requirements. Shipments to neighboring Latin American countries generally benefit from simplified procedures thanks to regional trade agreements like Mercosur or the Pacific Alliance. Intercontinental shipments to Europe, North America or Asia involve more complex formalities but are routinely handled by the company's experienced teams.

• Intra-regional shipments: Transport between Latin American countries with customs procedures often streamlined by trade agreements
• Exports to North America: Frequent connections to the United States and Mexico with well-established customs clearance procedures
• Transatlantic links: Services to Europe with management of entry formalities into the European customs area
• Connections to Asia-Pacific: Routing to Australia, New Zealand and Asian markets

Customs formalities are a crucial aspect of international air transport that shippers must anticipate. Every shipment crossing a border must be subject to a customs declaration, whose form and content are defined by the destination country's regulations. The three fundamental elements to determine are the tariff classification of goods (classification in customs nomenclature), their origin and value. This information allows authorities to calculate applicable duties and taxes.

LATAM Cargo facilitates the customs clearance process by working with a network of licensed customs agents in its various countries of operation. These brokers possess the necessary licenses to accomplish formalities on behalf of importers and ensure declaration compliance. Nevertheless, final responsibility for customs clearance and payment of duties and taxes generally falls on the goods recipient or their designated representative.

• Air waybill (AWB): Mandatory transport document for any international air freight shipment
• Commercial invoice: Detailed description of goods with their value for customs duty calculation
• Packing list: Detail of contents of each package making up the shipment
• Certificate of origin: Attestation of goods origin to benefit from possible preferential agreements
• Licenses and permits: Special authorizations for certain categories of regulated products
• Health and phytosanitary certificates: Documents required for food, plant or animal products

Customs duties and import taxes vary considerably depending on the destination country, nature of goods and their origin. These costs are generally not included in LATAM Cargo's transport rate and are the responsibility of the recipient. As a general rule, customs clearance is conducted according to the Incoterms agreed between shipper and recipient, the most common being DAP (Delivery at Place) where the recipient handles import formalities, or DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) where the shipper assumes all formalities and costs through delivery.

Customs clearance delays can add significant time to total goods transit, particularly for shipments to countries with strict controls or for products subject to specific inspections. LATAM Cargo takes these potential delays into account in its delivery estimates and informs customers when their goods are pending customs clearance via the tracking system. The Customer Care team can also provide assistance in resolving any customs blocking issues.

• Customs clearance times: Variable by country, from a few hours to several days for thorough inspections
• CCD status: Tracking code indicating goods have been cleared and authorized to enter the country
• Storage fees: Costs for storage in customs warehouse if formalities extend
• Customs assistance: Support available via LATAM Cargo's partner network in case of difficulty

For certain product categories, export or import restrictions may apply depending on countries involved. Dangerous goods, pharmaceuticals, live animals, foodstuffs and high-value merchandise are subject to specific regulations that LATAM Cargo masters through its specialized services (HAZMAT, PHARMA, ALIVE, FRESH, SECURE). Customers are encouraged to inquire in advance about requirements applicable to their goods to avoid any border blockage.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track a LATAM Cargo shipment online, different statuses may appear to indicate your cargo's progress through the logistics network. Each LATAM Cargo tracking number, in air waybill (AWB) format, generally begins with the prefix LA or JJ (former TAM code) followed by a series of numbers for a total of 10 to 12 characters. By entering this number on LATAM Cargo's e-Tracking portal, you access the complete history of events since initial pickup. Here are the main statuses and their meanings: