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- 1. How is air freight calculated from china ?
- 2. How to Calculate Volumetric Weight for Air freight ?
- 3. Air Freight Route & Transit time From China to Worldwi3de
- 4 Which type of cargo fits for air freight shipping from China
- 5 Oversize cargo by Air Freight
- 6 What have to pay attention in Air Freight Shipping from China ?
- 7 Which Airline in China
Air Freight From China : Your Guide to Fast, Reliable Shipping
Understanding the Basics of Air Freight from China
Air freight shipping is the quickest and most efficient method of transporting goods across the globe. Whether it’s high-value commodities, perishable goods, or time-sensitive products, air freight provides a reliable and fast solution. For businesses importing goods from China, understanding the ins and outs of air freight can significantly enhance their logistics and supply chain efficiency.
Why Choose Air Freight From China?
Air freight offers several advantages over other modes of transport. Here are a few reasons why businesses prefer air freight from China
- Speed: Air freight is undisputedly the fastest shipping method. Goods that take weeks to deliver by sea can reach their destination within days when shipped by air.
- Reliability: Airlines offer highly reliable arrival and departure times, with fewer delays compared to sea or land transport.
- Global Reach: Air freight offers a wide network, enabling businesses to ship their products almost anywhere globally.
- Security: Airports provide high security, reducing the risk of theft and damage during transit.
- Less Packaging: Goods transported by air require less heavy packing than those transported by sea, reducing the shipping cost.
Air Freight Rates and Costs From China
Air freight rates are determined by various factors such as the weight and volume of the shipment, the type of goods, the origin and destination of the cargo, and the type of service chosen. The cost is usually calculated per kilogram of the shipment’s weight. However, if the cargo is light but voluminous, the volumetric weight is considered for billing.
How Are Air Freight Rates Calculated?
The cost of air freight is primarily determined by the weight and volume of the shipment. The principle of ‘chargeable weight’ is used, which considers both the actual weight and the volumetric weight of the shipment. The higher of the two is used to calculate the freight cost.
Weight and Volume in Air Freight
Air freight rates also include fuel and security surcharges. These additional charges are necessary to cover the costs of fuel and the stringent security measures implemented for air freight.
Fuel and Security Surcharges
Additional charges may include container freight station fees, terminal handling charges, and airport transfers.
Air Freight Services: Economical, Standard, and Urgent Options from China
When it comes to air freight from China, businesses have multiple service options to choose from, depending on their specific needs and budget.
| Service | Delivery Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Economical | 7-14 days | Cost-saving shipments |
| Standard | 3-5 days | Regular business needs |
| Urgent | 1-2 days | Time-sensitive goods |
Economical Air Freight
Economical air freight service is the most cost-effective option but takes a bit longer. The shipment process usually takes between 7 to 14 days for cargo to arrive.
Standard Air Freight
Standard air freight service offers a balance between cost and speed. This service typically takes between 3 to 5 days for the shipment to arrive.
Urgent Air Freight
Urgent air freight service is the fastest, delivering cargo in as little as 2 days. This service is ideal for businesses with time-sensitive shipments.
How Does Air Freight Support E-Commerce Businesses?
With the boom in e-commerce, air freight has become an indispensable tool for online businesses. Products are prepared and packed in China and then delivered directly to customers or e-commerce platforms like Amazon. Air freight enables e-commerce businesses to deliver their products faster, enhancing customer satisfaction and competitiveness. It also simplifies the import process, allowing businesses to sell directly to global customers without needing a local presence.
E-commerce platforms rely heavily on air freight to meet customer expectations for fast and reliable deliveries.
Key Benefits for E-Commerce
- Fast Delivery: Enables quick shipping to customers globally, enhancing satisfaction.
- Global Reach: Air freight connects Chinese manufacturers to e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Shopify.
- Simplified Logistics: Freight forwarders handle customs clearance and last-mile delivery, making the process seamless.
Why is air freight essential for e-commerce? It ensures that online sellers can meet tight delivery deadlines and stay competitive.
Air Freight Restrictions and Compliance
The Role of an Air Freight Forwarder
An air freight forwarder like Super International Shipping plays a crucial role in the logistics process. They manage and handle all aspects of air freight, including documentation, customs clearance, and coordination with airlines and other entities involved in the shipping process.
Air freight forwarders have extensive knowledge of the shipping industry and regulations, allowing them to provide efficient and cost-effective solutions for their clients. They also offer tracking systems to keep clients updated on their shipment’s status.
Choosing the Right Air Freight Forwarder
When it comes to air freight from China, choosing the right air freight forwarder can make a significant difference. A good air freight forwarder, like Super International Shipping, can navigate the complexities of air shipping and provide you with a seamless and stress-free experience.
Expertise and Experience
A good air freight forwarder will have extensive expertise and experience in air freight shipping. This includes understanding international shipping regulations, customs procedures, and the specific requirements of shipping goods by air.
Network and Partnerships
A strong network and partnerships with airlines and other logistics providers are crucial for an air freight forwarder. This allows them to offer competitive air freight rates and ensure reliable and timely delivery of goods.
Customer Service
Excellent customer service is another key factor to consider when choosing an air freight forwarder. From providing timely and accurate quotes to handling any issues that arise during the shipping process, a good air freight forwarder will offer a high level of customer service and support.
Get Started with Air Freight from China
How to track air freight shipment from China?
If you want to track your air cargo, airlines provide a Track Shipments section on their website. All that’s required to get this info is your AWB number. Once the AWB has been entered, the website generates air route details, tracking report, status update and estimated time of arrival for your shipment. Here is the guidelin
Tracking your shipment is critical for transparency and timely delivery. The Master Air Waybill (MAWB) number is the key to monitoring air freight shipments.
Step-by-Step Guide to Tracking Shipments using MAWB Number
- Obtain the MAWB Number: This 11-digit number is issued by the airline and serves as the shipment’s unique identifier.
- Visit the Airline’s Tracking Portal: Most airlines, such as Air China, China Eastern, or Cathay Pacific, have online tracking systems.
- Enter the MAWB Number: Input the number in the tracking section to access real-time updates.
- Monitor Shipment Status: View details such as departure time, current location, and estimated delivery time.
- Contact Customer Support: If there are discrepancies, reach out to the airline for clarification.
Tips for Calculating Volume in Other Types of Transportation
- Air freight 1 mÂł = 167 kg
- Truck freight 1 mÂł = 333 kg
- Sea freight 1 mÂł = 1,000 kg
- Rail freight 1 mÂł = 500 kg
How to Calculate Volumetric Weight for Airfreight?
Lightweight items, typically with larger amounts of volume and low weight, are generally charged on the basis of their size rather than actual weight. This ‘volumetric weight’ is easy to calculate with a few basic measurements.
Volumetric weight (average freight) = Volume (CBM) x 167
To get the exact volumetric weight of your shipment, these steps should be followed:
To illustrate, in order to figure out the volumetric weight of a shipment (160 cm Ă— 80 cm Ă— 60 cm), you have to first find its actual volume, which would be 0.768 cubic meters. Then divide this number by 0.006 and you will get the volumetric weight in Kilograms – 128 kg.
The total weight of your shipment is 100 kgs, but the Airfreight cost will be determined by a volumetric weight of 128 kgs. If your pallet weighs 150 Kgs, then the transportation cost will be based on that specific weight instead.
Air Freight Route & Transit time From ChinaÂ
What is Air Freight Price compare with sea freight and Road Freight ?
4 to 5 times higher than road freight
10 to 15 times higher than sea freight
Air freight cost estimation from China ?
It’s usually from USD 1 to USD 5 per kilogram, may vary depends on seasonal.
Top Routes : Air Freight From China to USA and Beyond
Popular Routes
China’s air freight network connects directly to major global regions. Here are the top routes:
- To the USA: Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), and Shenzhen (SZX) to Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD), and New York (JFK).
- To Europe: Beijing (PEK) and Hong Kong (HKG) to London (LHR), Frankfurt (FRA), and Paris (CDG).
- To the Middle East: Shenzhen (SZX) to Dubai (DXB) and Riyadh (RUH).
Flight Frequencies
- Air China: Daily flights to the USA and Europe.
- China Eastern: Frequent flights from Shanghai to major global hubs.
- Cathay Pacific: Focuses on routes from Hong Kong to Europe and North America.
Knowing flight frequencies helps businesses plan shipments more effectively.
What Are the Best Airports for Air Freight From China?
Choosing the right airport is crucial for minimizing costs and ensuring efficiency.
Top Air Freight Airports in China
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
- Handles the highest volume of international air cargo in China.
- Hub for China Eastern Airlines and DHL Express.
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
- Known for its advanced cargo facilities and strategic location in southern China.
- Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
- A major hub for e-commerce shipments, connecting to global markets.
- Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
- Ideal for shipments to Europe and North America.
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)
- Focuses on electronics and high-tech goods.
Pro Tip: Choose an airport close to your supplier or factory to reduce domestic transportation costs.
Shipping During Holidays: How to Avoid Delays and Extra Costs
Shipping around major Chinese holidays, such as Chinese New Year, Golden Week, or Mid-Autumn Festival, is often seen as challenging due to high demand and potential delays. However, with proper planning and preparation, you can ensure smooth shipments without incurring extra costs or delays.
Why Shipping During Holidays Can Be Challenging
- Increased air freight demand leads to overbooked flights.
- Factories and logistics providers may close or operate with reduced staff.
- Customs clearance may take longer due to reduced workforce availability.
Holiday Shipping Tips for Smooth Operations
-
Plan Ahead:
- Book shipments at least 2-4 weeks in advance to secure space and avoid last-minute price hikes.
- Provide your freight forwarder with accurate shipment details early to streamline the process.
-
Work With Experienced Freight Forwarders:
- Freight forwarders like Super International Shipping have strong relationships with airlines and can secure space even during busy seasons.
- They can prioritize time-sensitive shipments and provide end-to-end support to avoid delays.
-
Choose the Right Service:
- Consider using urgent air freight services (1-2 days delivery) for critical shipments.
- Standard air freight (3-5 days) is also a reliable option if planned well in advance.
-
Monitor Holiday Schedules:
- Be aware of key holiday dates and how they affect production schedules, factory closures, and airport operations.
- Collaborate with suppliers to ensure goods are ready for shipping before holidays begin.
How To Choose Airport In China when shipping from China?
Shanghai Airport
Shanghai Airport is the main international airport serving Shanghai, China.
Pudong International Airport (IATA CODE: PVG) is one of two international airports of Shanghai and a major aviation hub of China. Pudong Airport mainly serves international flights, while the other major airport Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is domestic and regional. Located about 30 kilometres (19 mi) east of the city center, Pudong Airport occupies a 40-square-kilometre (15 sq mi) site adjacent to the coastline in eastern Pudong. The airport is operated by Shanghai Airport Authority.
The airport is the main hub for China Eastern Airlines and Shanghai Airlines, and a major international hub for Air China and also serves as a focus city for Shenzhen Airlines. The DHL hub, opened in July 2012, is said to be the biggest express hub in Asia.
Hong Kong Airport
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is a hub for Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines and Air Hong Kong, and it’s the main airport in Hong Kong. The airport is located on the island of Chek Lap Kok, which largely comprises land reclaimed for the construction of the airport itself. It also serves as a focus city for China Airlines, Dragonair, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines and many more.
Ningbo Airport
Ningbo Airport (IATA CODE : NGB) is located in Beilun District, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China. It is the second busiest airport in the Zhejiang province.
Ningbo Lishe International Airport is a major air cargo hub that offers direct flights to destinations throughout Asia and Europe, including Moscow and Kuala Lumpur. The cargo center at Ningbo Airport consists of a 280,000 m2 cargo center and an additional 50,000 m2 warehouse complex.
The cargo terminal has five large cargo storerooms that are equipped with modern storage equipment, as well as cold storage facilities for perishable goods such as flowers and food. The airport’s advanced container-handling system can handle over 50 tons of goods per hour. The Ningbo airport also boasts an international airmail servicing center with a sorting capacity of up to 40 million letters per year, making it one of the largest in China.
Shenzhen Airport
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (IATA Code: SZX) is an international airport located in the city of Shenzhen, Guangdong province. Located 32 km northwest of the city center, the airport is a focal point for both passenger and cargo traffic in southern China. It serves as a hub for Shenzhen Airlines, Donghai Airlines, and China Southern Airlines.
The airport’s new international terminal opened on November 28, 2013 to passengers, with a separate facility for cargo handling. The new facility features automation for baggage handling and check-in services. It also features 12 remote parking stands that allow boarding without passengers having to enter the terminal building.
The airport has two parallel runways that are 3,600 meters long and 60 meters wide; they are capable of handling the world’s largest aircraft.
Guangzhou Airport
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (IATA Code : GUA) Located in China’s Guangdong Province to the north of Hong Kong, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is a hub for international cargo flights within Asia. The airport is also known as New Baiyun Airport to distinguish it from the old airport, which was renamed Huangtian Airport.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has three terminals. Terminal 1 is dedicated to domestic flights and Terminal 2 handles only international flights. Terminal 3, which opened in August 2018, is the largest and newest terminal at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. It serves both domestic and international flights (passenger and cargo) and includes an 11-gate Sky Pier that connects directly to the airfield, allowing passengers to board airplanes without going through security or immigration screening. Passengers traveling through Terminal 3 can also use an automated self-service system to check in.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is about 25 miles north of downtown Guangzhou and 19 miles from the center of Foshan city.
Qingdao Airport
Qingdao Liuting International Airport (IATA Code : TAO) is located in the west of Qingdao City, Shandong Province. It is 24 kilometers from the urban area and 35 kilometers from Qingdao Port. The airport has two parallel runways (the main runway is 3600 meters long, the auxiliary runway is 3000 meters long), an annual passenger throughput of 10 million people and an annual cargo throughput of 200,000 tons. Qingdao Liuting International Airport can meet the take-off and landing requirements of Boeing 737, 757, 777 and Airbus A320, A330, A380 aircraft.
The airport has opened international routes to Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Macau and other routes. It has opened international cargo flights to Osaka Kansai International Airport in Japan, Incheon International Airport in South Korea, Shanghai Pudong International Airport in Shanghai and Cargo Airlines in Hong Kong.
Xingang Airport
Tianjin Cargo Airport (IATA Code : TSN) is one of the top cargo airports in the world and serves as the headquarters for Cargolux, an international cargo airline. The airport is located in northern China near Tianjin, a major port city and economic center. It has been in operation since 1992 and currently processes over 1 million metric tons of cargo annually.
The airport’s runway measures approximately 3 miles in length. It has 100,000 square meters (25 acres) of warehouse space available and can store up to 600,000 metric tons of cargo at once. In addition to storage space, Tianjin Cargo Airport also offers services such as packing, palletizing, labeling, assembly/disassembly of cars or other heavy machinery for transport purposes.
Tianjin Cargo Airport can accommodate most types of aircraft with its two large runways—one for takeoff and landing that measures about 3 miles long by 2 miles wide; another that measures almost 2 miles in width with no obstructions such as buildings or trees on either side making it safe to land even during windy conditions.”
Chongqing Airport
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (IATA Code: CKG) is located in the Yubei District of Chongqing, China. It is a modern, state-of-the-art facility that is equipped to serve all of your shipping needs.
The airport is located just 15 km from downtown Chongqing and is accessible by car, taxi, or shuttle bus. It has direct connections to Chongqing North Railway Station, Chongqing West Railway Station, and central Chongqing.
CKG has four terminals and two runways, making it highly functional and efficient for all types of travelers. A new terminal building was constructed in 2010 in order to meet the demands of the growing city.
As one of the fastest growing cities in China, with a population that hovers around 30 million people and an economy that has expanded by an average of 14% per year since 1992, Chongqing is an ideal place to send and receive cargo flights. The airport serves as a major hub for flight routes throughout Asia, with more than 20 airlines operating direct flights out of CKG to more than 60 domestic destinations and over 20 international destinations.
Beijing Airport
Beijing Capital International Airport (IATA Code: PEK) is the main international airport serving Beijing. Located 32km northeast of Beijing, it is owned and operated by the Beijing Capital International Airport Company Limited, a state-controlled company. The airport’s IATA Airport code, PEK, is based on the city’s former romanized name, Peking.
The airport is the main hub for Air China, the flagship airline of the People’s Republic of China, which flies to around 120 domestic and international destinations from Beijing. Hainan Airlines and China Southern Airlines also use the airport as their hub. Capital International Airport is currently the second busiest airport in Asia and third busiest in the world.
Which Type Of Cargo Fits For Air Freight Shipping From China
Air freight is the best choice for Fashion, pharmaceutical, consumer electronics, Artworks, perishable and agricultural cargo having higher cargo values per unit or time sensitive.
It’s usually adopted for consolidated cargoes, in constraint of air plane capacity, weight and safety factor.
Apart the above that related to contracted manufacturing, critical shipment of product patterns, designs and technical drawings though not the major cargo source of air freight are appropriate to be shipped by Air freight shipping.
Oversized Cargo by Air Freight from China
There are many different types of aircrafts for oversized projects, like chartered flights which carry project cargo.
Taking the Antonov An-225 Mriya for example which is the largest aircrafts in the world, with its length of 275 feet (83.82 meters) and wingspan at 290 feet (88.39 meters) it carries up to 250 tons of cargo.
Main Documents for Booking Air Freight From China
Accurate documentation is essential for smooth customs clearance and avoiding delays.
Required Documents
- Air Waybill (AWB): The primary contract between the shipper and carrier.
- Packing List: Details about the shipment’s contents, including dimensions and weight.
- Commercial Invoice: Specifies the shipment’s value for customs purposes.
- Export License: Required for regulated goods to comply with Chinese export laws.
- Certificate of Origin: Confirms the country where the goods were manufactured.
Pro Tip: Always double-check your documents for accuracy to avoid customs delays.
How Does Air Freight Insurance Cover High-Value Goods?
Air freight insurance protects businesses from financial losses due to damage, theft, or delays during transit.
Benefits of Air Freight Insurance
- Comprehensive Coverage: Insures against loss, damage, and delays during transportation.
- High-Value Shipments: Covers up to 100% of the declared value of goods, providing peace of mind for expensive items.
- Fast Claims: Insurance claims for air freight are typically processed faster than other modes of transport.
Pro Tip: For high-value goods like electronics, jewelry, or luxury items, always opt for additional insurance coverage.
Conclusion
Air freight from China is the ultimate solution for businesses seeking fast, secure, and reliable shipping options. From selecting the right airport to tracking shipments using MAWB numbers, understanding the air freight process ensures smooth global operations. Whether you’re an e-commerce seller or a manufacturer, collaborating with experienced freight forwarders like Super International Shipping can simplify logistics and save costs.
Contact us today for a free quote and let us handle all your air freight needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
How is air freight calculated from China?
Weight and volume are key factors in air freight shipping. Airlines typically choose the weight-based fee that is more expensive, whether it be volumetric weight or actual weight. Using the method below, you can calculate the air freight rates from China. The total cost of the shipment is computed by multiplying the price per kilogram with its weight.
How to Calculate Volumetric Weight for Airfreight?
Lightweight items, typically with larger amounts of volume and low weight, are generally charged on the basis of their size rather than actual weight. This ‘volumetric weight’ is easy to calculate with a few basic measurements. Volumetric weight (average freight) = Volume (CBM) x 167. To get the exact volumetric weight of your shipment, these steps should be followed: To illustrate, in order to figure out the volumetric weight of a shipment (160 cm Ă— 80 cm Ă— 60 cm), you have to first find its actual volume, which would be 0.768 cubic meters. Then divide this number by 0.006 and you will get the volumetric weight in Kilograms – 128 kg. The total weight of your shipment is 100 kgs, but the Airfreight cost will be determined by a volumetric weight of 128 kgs. If your pallet weighs 150 Kgs, then the transportation cost will be based on that specific weight instead.
How is air freight from China calculated?
Multiply the higher of actual or volumetric weight (e.g., 160 Ă— 80 Ă— 60 Ă· 6000 = 128 kg) by the rate per kg, then add surcharges.
How long does air freight from China to USA take?
Typically 2-5 days, depending on the service tier.
What’s the cost of air freight from China?
It varies by weight, volume, and route—request a quote from Super International Shipping.
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