Can tools of the trade be shipped as airfreight at a lower cost than as baggage if sent in advance?

The assertion that tools of the trade can only be shipped as baggage and not as airfreight, even in advance, highlights the specific regulations and restrictions imposed by airlines and air cargo services. When transporting tools of the trade, many airlines define such items under specific categorizations that may require them to be treated as checked baggage due to safety regulations or weight considerations.

Shipping items as cargo often entails different pricing structures, which may not be advantageous for tools of the trade when considering their classification as personal items. Handling charges, inspection fees, and specific packaging requirements for airfreight can increase the overall cost, negating any potential savings. Therefore, transporting these items as part of personal baggage can often be more cost-effective and straightforward for travelers, particularly if it is done within the airline's baggage policies.

Additionally, the restrictions on transporting certain tools can lead to increased scrutiny and potential issues during security checks if not classified correctly. Hence, the response reflects the complexities involved in shipping tools of the trade through air freight, where several factors come into play, making the baggage route a preferred and potentially less costly option.