Hand carry couriers and onboard couriers are similar in that they both involve a person physically transporting documents, packages, or other items on a commercial flight as a way of expediting delivery. However, there is a subtle difference between the two terms.
Hand carry couriers are individuals who are responsible for carrying the package or documents on their person and delivering it to the recipient upon arrival at the destination. They are usually used for time-sensitive or high-value items that require special handling. Hand carry couriers are responsible for the entire delivery process, from the point of pickup to the final delivery.
Onboard couriers, also known as air couriers, are individuals who are responsible for escorting the package or documents on a commercial flight and delivering it to the recipient upon arrival at the destination. They are usually used for time-sensitive or high-value items that require special handling. Onboard couriers are responsible for the entire delivery process, from the point of pickup to the final delivery, but their main task is to escort the package on the plane and make sure that it is delivered on time.
In summary, the main difference between hand carry couriers and onboard couriers is that hand carry couriers are responsible for carrying the package or documents on their person, while onboard couriers are responsible for escorting the package on a commercial flight. Both services are used for time-sensitive or high-value items that require special handling, but onboard couriers place a bigger emphasis on the air-transportation aspect of delivery.
Onboard couriers have the option to check-in their cargo as part of the airline's baggage or cargo system, which typically involves additional security and handling procedures, but also provides an extra layer of protection for the package. This is particularly useful for larger or heavier items that cannot be carried on the person. However, it is important to note that the package is still under the responsibility of the onboard courier until it reaches the final destination.
On the other hand, hand carry couriers keep the cargo on them in person during the entire journey, meaning that they must be able to physically carry the package or document and keep it under their direct supervision at all times. This is often used for smaller, more valuable items that require a higher level of security, as the hand carry courier is able to ensure that the package is not tampered with or misplaced.
In summary, onboard couriers have the option to check-in their cargo as part of the airline's baggage or cargo system, while hand carry couriers are responsible for keeping the cargo on their person at all times, allowing them to ensure that the package is not tampered with or misplaced. Both services are used for time-sensitive or high-value items that require special handling, but the choice of which service to use will depend on the specific needs of the package and the level of security required.