Standard Trading Conditions
Governing the contractual relationship between SAAA members and their customers — approved at the 51st AGM on 11 November 2025.
Governing the contractual relationship between SAAA members and their customers — approved at the 51st AGM on 11 November 2025.
The Standard Trading Conditions (STC) define the contractual framework that governs the relationship between SAAA members and their customers. They establish the rights, responsibilities, and liabilities of all parties involved in the carriage of cargo, ensuring clarity and consistency across the airfreight industry.
Adherence to the STC is a condition of membership with SAAA. All members are required to incorporate these conditions into their contracts of carriage and make them available to their customers.
The STC 2025 was approved at the 51st Annual General Meeting on 11 November 2025, following a comprehensive review by the SAAA Council and legal advisors to ensure alignment with current industry practices and regulatory requirements.
Establishes uniform terms across all SAAA member operations in Singapore.
Aligned with Singapore law and international air cargo conventions.
Mandatory adoption by all SAAA members in their contracts of carriage.
Clearly defined rights and responsibilities for all parties.
The STC 2025 introduces several important updates to reflect evolving industry practices and regulatory standards.
Revised limits of liability to align with current international conventions and market expectations, providing clearer guidelines for claims and compensation.
Streamlined documentation procedures to reflect modern digital practices, including provisions for electronic airway bills and paperless transactions.
Improved transparency around charges, fees, and invoicing terms to ensure customers have a clear understanding of all applicable costs.
Updated claims procedures with defined timelines and processes, making it easier for customers to file and track claims.
Amendments incorporating new regulatory requirements from CAAS, IATA, and other relevant authorities to ensure full compliance.
The Standard Trading Conditions address all critical aspects of the cargo carriage relationship.
Clear definitions of all key terms used throughout the conditions, including carrier, merchant, cargo, and charges.
Provisions governing the extent of liability for loss, damage, or delay, including limitations and exclusions.
Requirements for shipping instructions, airway bills, and accompanying documentation for customs and regulatory purposes.
Rules governing quotation, invoicing, payment terms, and consequences of non-payment or late payment.
Time limits, procedures, and requirements for filing claims, as well as dispute resolution mechanisms.
Provisions allowing the carrier to select the route, mode of transport, and means of carriage at their discretion.
Obligations regarding cargo insurance, risk allocation, and notification requirements in the event of loss or damage.
Specification that the STC and all contracts of carriage are governed by the laws of the Republic of Singapore.
For the complete STC 2025 document, please contact the SAAA office.
Access the official Standard Trading Conditions 2025 document for SAAA members.