Airfreight from China is a common shipping option for businesses and individuals needing to transport goods quickly and efficiently. Airfreight is faster than sea freight and is ideal for time-sensitive or high-value items. Here’s an overview of the process, pricing, and other considerations for shipping via air from China.
1. Air Freight Costs from China
The cost of air freight is typically calculated by weight (kg) or volume (cubic meters), depending on which one is more expensive. For larger, lightweight shipments, the cost is based on volume.
Estimated Air Freight Costs (Per Kg):
- China to USA: Approx. $4 – $8 per kg
- China to Europe: Approx. $5 – $9 per kg
- China to Australia: Approx. $6 – $10 per kg
- China to South East Asia: Approx. $3 – $7 per kg
- China to Middle East: Approx. $5 – $9 per kg
- China to Africa: Approx. $6 – $10 per kg
Example:
- 5 kg shipment: Approx. $20 – $40
- 10 kg shipment: Approx. $40 – $80
The cost can vary significantly based on factors like fuel surcharges, service level (express or economy), and the destination.
2. Air Freight Shipping Options
There are two main types of air freight services:
1. Standard Air Freight:
- Cost: More affordable but slower than express services.
- Delivery Time: 5 – 10 days (depending on the destination and route).
- Use Case: Ideal for shipments that don’t need immediate delivery but still require faster transit than sea freight.
2. Express Air Freight (e.g., DHL, FedEx, UPS):
- Cost: More expensive due to the faster delivery time.
- Delivery Time: 1 – 5 days (depending on the destination).
- Use Case: Best for urgent, high-value, or perishable items that need quick delivery.
3. Air Freight Considerations
When choosing air freight from China, there are several factors to consider that can impact the cost and delivery time:
1. Weight vs. Volume:
- Chargeable weight: Air freight is calculated by either actual weight (kg) or volumetric weight (cubic meters), whichever is greater.
- Volumetric weight is calculated using the formula:
Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 6000
This means that lightweight but bulky items could be charged based on volume rather than actual weight.
2. Fuel Surcharges:
Air freight prices are subject to fuel surcharges, which can fluctuate based on global oil prices. Fuel surcharges are usually added to the base rate.
3. Customs Clearance:
- Air freight shipments to China must go through customs clearance, which requires documentation such as commercial invoices and packing lists.
- Customs clearance can add a few days to the delivery time and may involve additional fees.
- Be sure to account for potential import duties, taxes, and handling charges upon arrival in China.
4. Airport Handling Fees:
These fees cover the cost of unloading and transporting your cargo at the airport. They vary by airport but generally range from $50 to $200 per shipment.
4. Air Freight Transit Times
The duration of air freight shipments from China depends on the destination and the specific service chosen:
| Route | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|
| China to USA (West Coast) | 3 – 5 days |
| China to USA (East Coast) | 5 – 7 days |
| China to Europe (Main Ports) | 5 – 8 days |
| China to Australia | 4 – 7 days |
| China to South East Asia | 3 – 5 days |
| China to Middle East | 4 – 7 days |
| China to Africa | 6 – 9 days |
5. Air Freight Booking Process
To book air freight from China, you typically need to follow these steps:
1. Choose a Freight Forwarder:
- Freight forwarders are intermediaries who handle the logistics of airfreight shipping. Popular freight forwarders in China include Kuehne + Nagel, DHL Global Forwarding, and DB Schenker.
- Many freight forwarders offer door-to-door services, including pickup from your warehouse or facility in China.
2. Documentation:
You will need to prepare documents such as:
- Commercial Invoice (detailed list of goods being shipped)
- Packing List (shows how the goods are packed)
- Air Waybill (AWB) (the shipping contract for airfreight)
- Certificate of Origin (if applicable for specific goods)
3. Payment:
Air freight charges are typically paid upfront or as a deposit, and charges may include:
- Base air freight charges
- Fuel surcharges
- Airport handling fees
- Customs duties and taxes
4. Delivery and Tracking:
Once shipped, your freight forwarder or courier service will provide tracking details, so you can monitor the status of your shipment in real-time.
6. Advantages of Air Freight
- Speed: Air freight is much faster than sea freight, typically taking 1 – 10 days.
- Reliability: Airlines have set schedules, and deliveries are often more predictable compared to sea freight.
- Security: Air cargo is generally considered safer due to less handling and the secure nature of airports.
- Ideal for Time-Sensitive Goods: Air freight is perfect for small, high-value, or perishable goods that need to arrive quickly.
7. Disadvantages of Air Freight
- Cost: Air freight is significantly more expensive than sea freight, especially for heavier shipments.
- Size and Weight Limitations: Some items may be too large or heavy for air transportation, and the costs can rise exponentially as the shipment size increases.
- Limited Cargo Space: There may be limited space available for large shipments, especially during peak shipping times.
Summary of Air Freight Costs and Delivery Times
| Destination | Estimated Cost (Per kg) | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
| China to USA (West Coast) | $4 – $8 | 3 – 5 days |
| China to USA (East Coast) | $5 – $8 | 5 – 7 days |
| China to Europe | $5 – $9 | 5 – 8 days |
| China to Australia | $6 – $10 | 4 – 7 days |
| China to South East Asia | $3 – $7 | 3 – 5 days |
| China to Middle East | $5 – $9 | 4 – 7 days |
| China to Africa | $6 – $10 | 6 – 9 days |
Conclusion
Air freight from China is a fast and reliable option for shipping goods, especially for urgent deliveries. However, it can be expensive compared to sea freight, so it’s important to evaluate your needs based on the value, size, and urgency of the shipment. Working with a freight forwarder can simplify the process and ensure that your shipment moves smoothly through customs and reaches its destination on time.