Qantas Freight, the dedicated cargo division of Australia national carrier Qantas founded in 1920, is the largest air freight operator in Australasia. Operating a fleet of dedicated Boeing 737, 767, and Airbus A321 passenger-to-freighter aircraft alongside the bellyhold capacity of Qantas and Jetstar passenger flights, Qantas Freight moves over 4,000 air cargo shipments daily across Australia and connects major international trade corridors across the Americas, Asia, and Europe.
How to Track Your Qantas Freight Shipment Online
Tracking your Qantas Freight shipment is fast, transparent, and accessible 24/7. Follow these simple steps to monitor your cargo from origin pickup to final destination:
- Find your 11-digit Qantas Freight air waybill number featuring the 081 airline code.
- Enter the 081 prefix and 8-digit tracking number into the tracking input box.
- Click the Track Cargo button to query the active Qantas Freight operations system.
- Check real-time flight departures, terminal ramp status, and terminal collection readiness.
Qantas Freight Tracking Number Format & Where to Find It
Tracking number formats commonly used include: 081-12345678 (3-digit prefix + 8-digit AWB serial number); 08112345678 (Continuous 11-digit electronic AWB format).
- Printed in the upper right quadrant of the official Qantas Master Air Waybill.
- Generated in electronic consignment notes via the Qantas Freight online booking portal.
- Recorded in Australian Department of Home Affairs Integrated Cargo System (ICS).
Understanding Qantas Freight Tracking Statuses & Milestones
Throughout transit, your Qantas Freight shipment generates key milestone updates. Here is what each status checkpoint indicates:
| Status Update | Operational Meaning | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| RCS (Freight Received) | Consignment delivered and accepted at Qantas Freight origin terminal. | Cargo weighed, security screened, and assigned to flight ULD. |
| DEP (Flight Departed) | Aircraft has taken off with cargo securely stowed onboard. | Cargo in flight; track scheduled flight arrival time. |
| ARR (Flight Arrived) | Aircraft landed at destination airport; cargo container unloading underway. | Containers moving to Qantas terminal sorting facility. |
| RCF (Available for Collection) | Consignment checked into import warehouse and ready for pickup. | Consignee or courier can present collection voucher at terminal counter. |
| AWR (Awaiting Clearance) | Cargo held pending biosecurity (DAFF) inspection or customs duties. | Submit required customs declaration and biosecurity clearance papers. |
| DLV (Delivered) | Cargo signed for and released to authorized consignee or road transport agent. | Consignment completed; retain signed delivery order. |
Qantas Freight Flagship Shipping Services & Delivery Times
Qantas Freight operates diverse transit tiers engineered to match varied urgency, freight profiles, and delivery requirements:
Qantas Priority Cargo
Time-critical freight service with guaranteed boarding on the next scheduled flight.
Estimated Transit: Next flight out / Same-dayQantas Perishable Fresh
Specialized cold chain handling for Australian beef, fresh seafood, stone fruit, and dairy exports.
Estimated Transit: 1 - 2 business daysQantas Pet & Live Animal
Comfortable, climate-controlled domestic and international pet transport with veterinary care.
Estimated Transit: Scheduled flight departureQantas Courier Interline
Dedicated parcel linehaul connectivity supporting domestic e-commerce delivery across Australia.
Estimated Transit: Overnight / 24 hoursManaging Qantas Freight Transit Delays & Delivery Issues
Shipment holds in Australia frequently arise from strict Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) biosecurity inspections for biologicals, timber, or soil contamination. Ensure all biosecurity treatment certificates are attached to prevent extended quarantine hold periods at Sydney (SYD) or Melbourne (MEL) terminals.
Qantas Freight Customer Support & Corporate Information
If you require direct assistance with your shipment, cargo claims, or service inquiries, connect with the Qantas Freight customer care desk:
- Customer Support Hotline: +61 13 12 13
- Official Email Support: qantasfreight@qantas.com.au
- Online Portal: https://freight.qantas.com
- Corporate Headquarters: Mascot, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Primary Logistics Hubs: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD), Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL), Brisbane Airport (BNE)
Frequently Asked Questions About Qantas Freight Tracking
What is the AWB prefix for Qantas Freight?
Qantas Freight shipments use the 3-digit IATA airline prefix 081 followed by an 8-digit serial number.
How do I collect freight from a Qantas domestic cargo terminal?
Present your 081 AWB number and a government-issued photo ID at the Qantas Freight customer service counter during terminal operating hours.
Can Qantas Freight transport pets domestically within Australia?
Yes, Qantas Freight provides specialized pet travel services in air-conditioned holds with dedicated pet handlers.
Does Qantas Freight operate dedicated freighter aircraft?
Yes, Qantas Freight operates converted Airbus A321P2F and Boeing 767-300F freighters on domestic Australian and trans-Tasman routes.