What is defined as a "Shortfall" in cargo planning?

In the context of cargo planning, a "shortfall" specifically refers to the difference between what resources are planned to be required and what has actually been allocated or apportioned. This indicates a gap or deficiency in the resources needed to meet the planned goals. For example, if a cargo operation estimates that it needs a certain amount of transport capacity but only secures a fraction of that capacity, the unfulfilled portion is considered a shortfall.

Understanding this concept is crucial in logistics and operational planning, as it helps identify potential issues in resource allocation and allows for adjustments to be made in order to meet mission requirements effectively. In contrast, the other options address different aspects of cargo management, such as capacity limits, the readiness status of cargo, or the total weight that can be handled, but they do not capture the essence of what constitutes a shortfall in this context.