Need to get products from China to your warehouse fast and reliably? Air freight is often the best solution, but figuring out how to start can be overwhelming, especially with various costs, paperwork, and carriers to consider.
Knowing how air freight from China works is crucial for smooth, efficient shipping and avoiding costly delays. Whether you’re a seasoned importer or just starting out, understanding the process can make all the difference.
In this article, we break down everything you need to know: step-by-step guidance, practical tips, and insider advice to simplify your air freight journey from China.
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How Air Freight from China Works: A Complete Guide
Air freight from China is one of the fastest and most reliable ways to move goods globally. Whether you’re a business owner needing urgent deliveries or an individual shipping valuable items, understanding how air freight works can help you save time and money. In this guide, we break down the steps, key considerations, pros and cons, as well as useful tips to master air shipping from China.
Understanding Air Freight from China
Air freight is the transportation of goods by aircraft. Compared to sea freight, air shipping from China offers speedy transit times and is ideal for urgent, high-value, or perishable items. This makes it a favorite for many importers and exporters worldwide.
When Does Air Freight Make Sense?
- When you need quick delivery (1-7 days transit time)
- For smaller or lighter shipments (typically under 500 kg/1,100 lbs)
- Shipping expensive, time-sensitive, or perishable products
- When you need predictable, scheduled arrivals
Common Routes and Destinations
China’s major airports, such as those in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, connect to hundreds of cities worldwide. Key destinations for Chinese air freight include North America, Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia.
Step-by-Step: Shipping by Air from China
Shipping by air may seem complicated at first, but here’s a simplified process you can follow:
1. Get a Quote & Choose a Forwarder
- Contact air freight forwarders: Reach out to established agents with China operations.
- Compare quotes: Request and compare rates, service types (airport-to-airport, door-to-door), and transit times.
- Decide on service level: Options include economy, express, or consolidated air freight.
2. Prepare Your Shipment
- Package securely: Use appropriate packaging to avoid damage during transit.
- Label consistently: Labels should clearly display destination addresses, contact info, and handling instructions.
- Arrange documentation: Prepare invoices, packing lists, and any required export/import paperwork.
3. Book the Shipment
- Confirm booking: Once you select a forwarder and agree on terms, they’ll book cargo space on your behalf.
- Supply shipment info: Provide weights, dimensions, contents, and harmonized codes if applicable.
4. Handover & Export Customs Clearance
- Deliver goods: The shipment is delivered to the forwarder’s warehouse or directly to the airport.
- Customs declaration: The forwarder or export broker will clear the goods with Chinese customs.
5. Air Transportation
- Flight departure: Your cargo is loaded onto the scheduled flight.
- Tracking: Most forwarders provide real-time tracking during transit.
6. Import Customs Clearance
- Arrival at destination: Goods land, are unloaded, and must be cleared by local customs.
- Duties and taxes: Pay any necessary import duties or VAT.
7. Last Mile Delivery
- Arrange pick-up: For airport-to-airport, you collect from the airport cargo terminal.
- Door-to-door options: Many forwarders offer direct delivery to your business or home.
Benefits of Shipping by Air from China
Air freight is an attractive choice for a variety of reasons:
- Speed: Most international air shipments arrive within a few days.
- Reliability: Airlines follow strict schedules, reducing risk of unexpected delays.
- Save on Inventory: Faster delivery means you can run a leaner supply chain.
- Enhanced Security: Airports have tight controls, lowering risk of loss or damage.
Challenges and Drawbacks
Despite the advantages, there are some challenges you should consider:
- Cost: Air freight is more expensive than ocean transport, especially for large or heavy items.
- Weight and Size Limits: Airlines enforce dimension and weight restrictions.
- Environmental Impact: Air shipping has a larger carbon footprint than sea freight.
- Potential for Delays: Weather events, customs holds, or flight cancellations can still cause delays.
Practical Tips for Air Shipping from China
To make your air freight experience as smooth and cost-efficient as possible, keep these key tips in mind:
1. Choose the Right Forwarder
- Select experienced and reputable freight forwarders with proven track records.
- Look for those offering tailored solutions (such as express or economy options).
2. Optimize Packaging
- Minimize dead space to avoid paying for “volumetric weight.”
- Use strong, light materials—airlines charge based on whichever is higher: gross weight or dimensional weight.
3. Know Your Documentation
- Invoices, packing lists, and any necessary certificates should be accurate and ready.
- Double-check for country-specific requirements at origin and destination.
4. Plan for Customs
- Understand which goods require special permits or inspections.
- Factor in customs clearance times and potential holidays or peak season slowdowns.
5. Be Strategic with Timing
- Avoid peak times (Chinese New Year, Christmas) when demand spikes and rates soar.
- Ship mid-week when flights may have more availability and slightly lower costs.
6. Track and Communicate
- Use tracking tools to monitor your shipment’s progress.
- Maintain regular contact with your freight forwarder for timely updates.
Understanding Air Freight Pricing from China
Air freight pricing isn’t just “per kilogram.” Several factors affect your cost:
Common Pricing Elements
- Chargeable Weight: Airlines charge the higher value between gross weight and volumetric (dimensional) weight.
- Origin and destination: Prices vary based on airport pairings and available capacity.
- Service speed: Express, standard, and economy services come at different price points.
- Additional fees: Security surcharges, fuel surcharges, handling, and customs brokerage can increase the final bill.
How to Calculate Volumetric Weight
Use this formula (used by most carriers):
– (Length cm × Width cm × Height cm) ÷ 6000 = Volumetric Weight (in kg)
Pick the greater of actual or volumetric weight for pricing.
Cost-Saving Strategies
- Consolidate shipments: Combine multiple packages into one air waybill to lower costs.
- Choose airport-to-airport over door-to-door: Picking up at the airport yourself can save on delivery fees if you have local logistics in place.
- Negotiate long-term rates: Regular shippers can often get better pricing from their forwarders.
Common Air Freight Service Options
Understanding the different air freight services can help you choose the best option for your needs.
1. Airport-to-Airport
- The most basic and economical service.
- You handle local logistics at both ends.
2. Door-to-Door
- The forwarder collects at the origin and delivers to your address at the destination.
- Simplifies logistics, though often at a higher cost.
3. Express Air Freight
- Top speed, handled by express carriers such as DHL or FedEx.
- Best for very urgent or smaller packages.
4. Consolidated Air Freight
- Your goods share space with other shipments on the same flight.
- Cost-efficient for non-urgent, smaller cargo.
Choosing the Best Air Freight Forwarder in China
A good freight forwarder can make all the difference. Here’s what to look for:
- Deep expertise: Experience with specific products, routes, and customs.
- Local presence in China: Ability to coordinate directly with suppliers and airports.
- Transparent pricing: Clear breakdown of all charges, no hidden fees.
- Value-added services: Warehousing, packaging, insurance, customs support, tracking.
- Customer service: Responsive, clear communication in your language.
What Items Are Commonly Shipped by Air from China?
Air freight is suitable for a variety of goods, such as:
- Consumer electronics (phones, laptops)
- Fashion and accessories
- Auto parts
- Medical equipment and supplies
- Samples and promotional goods
- Fresh or perishable products
Note: Some hazardous or restricted materials need special permits or may be barred from air transport.
Pros & Cons of Air Freight from China At-a-Glance
Pros
- Fastest international shipping option
- High schedule reliability
- Suitable for high-value or urgent cargo
- Less risk of damage/theft
Cons
- High cost per kg/volume compared to ocean shipping
- Limited capacity for bulky or heavy items
- Restricted for certain dangerous goods
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What documents do I need for shipping by air from China?
You typically need a commercial invoice, packing list, and air waybill. For some goods, you may also need permits, certificates of origin, or export licenses, depending on the nature of your cargo and destination country.
How long does air freight take from China to my country?
Transit times usually range from 1 to 7 days depending on the service (express vs. economy), origin city in China, destination, and customs clearance speed. Major destinations in the US and Europe often see flights daily.
How is air freight cost calculated from China?
Costs are based on chargeable weight, which is either the shipment’s actual weight or its volumetric weight (whichever is higher). Other components like origin/destination, fuel surcharges, and additional services (door delivery, customs brokerage) also affect pricing.
Can I track my air freight shipment from China?
Yes, most reputable freight forwarders offer online tracking tools or provide regular updates. You will receive an air waybill number to monitor your cargo in real-time as it travels from China to your destination.
What if my goods are delayed at customs?
Delays can occur if documents are missing, regulations are unclear, or inspections are required. Stay in close contact with your freight forwarder, provide all necessary paperwork in advance, and be aware of possible holidays or peak seasons that may slow down clearance.
Conclusion
Shipping by air from China is the go-to solution for time-sensitive, high-value, and important shipments. While air freight costs more than ocean shipping, it saves time, reduces risk, and offers reliable arrivals. With careful planning—choosing the right forwarder, optimizing costs, and preparing all necessary documents—you can master air freight shipping from China for your business or personal needs. Remember to communicate openly with your partners and track your shipments for the smoothest experience possible.
