Global air charter specialist Chapman Freeborn has successfully delivered a shipment of 20-metre-long welded tubes for industrial heat exchangers from Liege Airport (LGG), Belgium, to Zhengzhou (CGO), China.
The shipment, weighing 700kg, required nose-loading onto a Boeing 747-400 Freighter due to its extreme length, making side-door loading impossible. The cargo was transported by part-charter flight, ensuring on-time and secure delivery under tight client deadlines.
Precision Handling of Oversized Cargo
The delicate welded tubes demanded careful planning to avoid bending or damage during transport. Operations began in July with truck offload and cargo build-up, followed by an intricate aircraft loading process lasting over an hour.
To complete the operation:
- Two cranes were deployed for truck offload and build-up
- Three high loaders and six ground staff executed the final aircraft loading
- Challenge Group provided expert ground handling services at LGG
This collaboration ensured flawless execution of one of the most technically challenging aspects of oversized freight transport.
Flexibility Under Changing Conditions
An added complexity arose when the final destination changed from Shanghai (PVG) to Zhengzhou (CGO) at the last minute. Chapman Freeborn quickly adapted, arranging export customs clearance, direct flight representation, and real-time client updates to maintain seamless operations.
Industry Expertise in Action
Yoann Maugran, Sales Manager for France at Chapman Freeborn, commented:
“When a customer entrusts us with an oversized shipment, we understand that there is no room for error. Oversized freight is among the most challenging yet rewarding parts of our business, and this mission showcased our ability to combine expertise, precision, and adaptability.”
Demonstrating Global Cargo Excellence
The successful completion of this project highlights Chapman Freeborn’s leadership in oversized cargo solutions, showcasing its ability to overcome technical challenges and deliver complex freight on time, even under evolving circumstances.