Pak Fresh - Handling

Pak Fresh - Handling operates as a specialist import and export logistics provider, strategically located at Canberra Airport in Pialligo, Australian Capital Territory. The business is recognised on Google Maps as an Im- und Exportfirma — a category that captures its core function in international trade. Operating from 8 George Tyson Drive, the facility is embedded within the critical airfreight infrastructure of the nation's capital, giving it a unique position in Australia's supply chain network for time-sensitive and high-care cargo.

While the broader Pak Fresh organisation has transitioned to the AIRWAY brand, this handling entity remains a distinct operational point for freight management. Customers who have engaged with the service describe it as a hands-on, essential node for moving goods via major domestic and international carriers. The facility handles cargo flights for Qantas and Virgin, according to Google Maps reviewers, which confirms its integration into Australia's primary commercial aviation network. This integration allows for seamless transfer of goods between road and air, a critical capability for perishable and urgent deliveries.

Core Handling Services at Pak Fresh - Handling

The business provides wholesale airfreight handling services for both import and export activities. This encompasses the physical receipt, storage, security screening, and dispatch of cargo consignments moving through Canberra Airport. The handling operation is designed to interface with major airfreight carriers, ensuring goods move efficiently between shippers, forwarders, and aircraft. Specifically, the facility supports domestic air and road express services, as well as perishable cargo movements, which align with the broader group's wholesale airfreight offerings.

• Import and Export Cargo Handling: Physical processing of inbound and outbound airfreight shipments, including acceptance, build-up, and breakdown of unit load devices (ULDs).
• Perishable Cargo Management: Specialised handling for temperature-sensitive goods, leveraging the airport's cold chain facilities to maintain product integrity during transit.
• Carrier Ground Handling: Acting as a contracted ground handler for airlines such as Qantas and Virgin Australia Freight, performing aircraft loading, unloading, and documentation checks.
• Wholesale Airfreight Interface: Providing the physical link between freight forwarders, general sales agents, and the aircraft, enabling consolidated and direct-to-aircraft loading services.

Specialisation in Live Animal and High-Value Cargo

Customer reviews highlight a notable capability at this facility: the handling of live animals. One reviewer shared their experience of collecting a puppy, noting the staff were friendly and helpful, which indicates that the team is trained in the specific protocols required for animal transportation. This suggests the facility maintains compliance with IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) and can manage the specific kenneling, ventilation, and welfare checks required for pets and other live species moving by air.

Customer Reviews and Reputation from Google Maps

Pak Fresh - Handling holds a strong 4.8-star rating on Google Maps, based on four reviews. While the volume of reviews is modest, the feedback is consistently positive and provides practical insight into the facility's operation. Google Maps reviewers repeatedly mention the clear, accessible location within the airport precinct and the efficient processing of freight.

Recurring Praise for Efficiency and Staff

Several reviewers specifically comment on the helpfulness and professionalism of the team. The review from Raylene Cullen, who collected a puppy, emphasized that "the staff were friendly and helpful." This personal, positive experience aligns with the operational reviews that describe a well-organised pickup process. Another review from a Local Guide provides clear directions, describing the entry off a side road leading toward the airport fence, noting four parking spaces and a small pathway between two buildings — practical information that speaks to the facility's ground-level reality for customers.

Operational Clarity from Customer Feedback

Reviews consistently confirm the core business function: this is a freight pickup and drop-off point for major carriers. The reviewer Robyn Smith simply states "Pickup for Qantas Freight," which succinctly captures the primary customer use case. Daniel's detailed guidance on accessing the site underscores that the facility is a functional, utility-driven location rather than a traditional retail business, which is exactly what one would expect of a specialised airport cargo handler.

Pak Fresh - Handling's Location at Canberra Airport, Pialligo

The business is situated at Canberra Airport, 8 George Tyson Drive, in the Canberra Airport precinct of Pialligo. This location places it directly on the tarmac's edge, within the designated freight and logistics zone of the airport. The facility is accessed via a side road leading towards the airport fence, a detail noted in customer reviews that helps first-time visitors navigate away from passenger terminals and into the operational freight area. Being on Canberra Airport grounds provides unparalleled direct airside access for loading and unloading aircraft, minimising transit times.

For customers driving to the facility, parking is available with four designated spaces near the entrance, as pointed out by a Google Maps reviewer. The hours of operation reflect its role in air cargo logistics, being open from early morning until late evening. While the exact schedule should be confirmed directly, Maps data suggests broad operating windows that accommodate flight schedules. The location is also accessible via public transport links to the airport precinct, with cycling and walking paths mapped in the vicinity, though most customers will arrive by vehicle.

What Sets Pak Fresh - Handling Apart

Pak Fresh - Handling differentiates itself through its exclusive airside location at Canberra Airport, a facility that handles cargo for Australia's two largest domestic and international carriers — Qantas and Virgin Australia. This is not a generic freight depot; it is a specialised, carrier-approved handling operation. Its ability to process live animals, as evidenced by customer reviews, adds a niche service layer that many general freight handlers do not offer. Furthermore, as part of the AIRWAY group, the facility benefits from the backing of a larger national network, while maintaining the hands-on, personalised service that customers describe in their reviews.

The business operates within the broader AIRWAY umbrella, which provides wholesale airfreight, general sales agent, and terminal operations services. This means Pak Fresh - Handling is supported by a comprehensive logistics ecosystem, but its specific role remains the physical, on-the-ground cargo handling at Canberra Airport. For businesses needing to move goods through the nation's capital, this facility offers a direct, carrier-integrated gateway with proven capability in both standard freight and sensitive cargo.

Common Questions About Pak Fresh - Handling

What are the operating hours of Pak Fresh - Handling at Canberra Airport?

Google Maps data indicates the facility is open seven days a week, with hours spanning from early morning to late evening to align with flight schedules. The operating windows appear to be 05:00–21:00 on some days and 05:00–18:30 on others, but it is best to contact Pak Fresh - Handling directly at +61 2 6247 1157 to confirm current hours before visiting, as they may vary with flight schedules.

How do I access the Pak Fresh - Handling facility for freight pickup?

According to Google Maps reviewers, you should turn into the side road from the main airport access and drive towards the airport fence. There are four parking spaces near the entrance, and the entry is via a small pathway between two buildings. It is advisable to call ahead on +61 2 6247 1157 to confirm collection procedures and any required documentation.

Does Pak Fresh - Handling accept live animal cargo like pets?

Yes, based on customer feedback on Google Maps, the facility has been used for live animal collection, including a puppy. The staff were described as friendly and helpful during this process. If you are shipping or receiving a live animal, contact Pak Fresh - Handling in advance to understand their specific requirements for kenneling, health certificates, and pickup.

Which airlines does Pak Fresh - Handling service at Canberra Airport?

Google Maps reviews and operational data indicate that Pak Fresh - Handling handles cargo flights for Qantas and Virgin Australia. This makes it a key ground handling agent for the two primary commercial carriers operating freight services through Canberra. Contact them directly to confirm if they handle cargo for other carriers or freight forwarders.

Is Pak Fresh - Handling the same company as AIRWAY?

Yes, Pak Fresh - Handling is part of the AIRWAY group, which rebranded from Pak Fresh in 2023. The handling facility at Canberra Airport continues to operate as a key part of AIRWAY's wholesale airfreight handling services, providing import and export cargo terminal operations. You may see both brands used, but they refer to the same integrated entity.

How do I track a consignment handled by Pak Fresh - Handling?

Contact Pak Fresh - Handling directly by phone at +61 2 6247 1157 to enquire about consignment tracking. Alternatively, visit the AIRWAY website at www.pakfresh.com.au to log in and track your shipment using their online tracking portal, which provides visibility for consignments moving through their network.