Air freight from China is a popular choice for businesses and individuals needing fast delivery of goods to international destinations. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate air freight shipping from China:
1. Air Freight Shipping Methods
- Standard Air Freight:
- Transit time: Typically 3-7 days depending on the carrier and route.
- Suitable for goods that need to be delivered quickly, but at a higher cost compared to sea freight.
- Delivered by major international couriers like DHL, FedEx, UPS, China Post EMS, or specialized freight carriers.
- Express Air Freight:
- Same as standard air freight but expedited.
- Best for time-sensitive deliveries, often with next-day delivery in some regions.
- Carriers like DHL Express, FedEx Express, and TNT Express offer premium services.
- Consolidated Air Freight:
- Goods from different customers are grouped together in a single shipment.
- This option is more economical for smaller shipments or businesses shipping small quantities.
- Can be slower than express or direct air freight.
2. Air Freight Companies
Here are some top carriers and freight forwarders offering air freight services from China to the world, including the USA:
- DHL Express: Known for fast and reliable service, especially for international shipments.
- FedEx: Provides fast global delivery with reliable tracking.
- UPS: Offers a range of air freight services, including express and economy options.
- SF Express: Popular in China, also offers air freight services to international destinations.
- China Eastern Airlines: One of China’s largest air freight operators.
- China Southern Airlines: Offers extensive international routes and air freight services.
3. Air Freight Cost Factors
- Weight: Air freight is typically charged based on actual weight or volumetric weight (whichever is greater). Volumetric weight is calculated using the formula: Volumetric Weight=Length (cm)×Width (cm)×Height (cm)6000\text{Volumetric Weight} = \frac{\text{Length (cm)} \times \text{Width (cm)} \times \text{Height (cm)}}{6000}
- Size: Larger shipments may require special handling or additional space, affecting the cost.
- Distance: Longer distances and remote destinations can increase the cost.
- Fuel Surcharges: Airlines often charge fuel surcharges, which can vary based on current fuel prices.
- Customs Clearance Fees: Some countries charge additional fees for customs clearance, depending on the type of goods being shipped.
- Shipping Insurance: For high-value items, it’s worth considering insurance, which can add to the cost but provides peace of mind.
4. Air Freight Transit Times
- China to the USA: 3-7 days, depending on the airport and the specific courier.
- China to Europe: Typically 3-5 days.
- China to Africa: 7-14 days.
- China to Asia (e.g., Japan, Korea): 2-5 days.
Note: Express services like DHL or FedEx can offer faster delivery, while more economical options like consolidated air freight may take longer.
5. Air Freight Documentation
To ship by air freight from China, you’ll need to provide certain documents:
- Commercial Invoice: Details about the goods being shipped, including their value.
- Air Waybill (AWB): The receipt for the goods being shipped, issued by the airline.
- Packing List: A detailed list of what is in each package.
- Import/Export Declaration: Required for customs clearance.
- Certificate of Origin: Sometimes required depending on the type of goods.
- Customs Forms: Depending on the destination, you may need specific customs forms.
6. Customs Clearance
When your shipment arrives in the USA (or another destination country), it will need to clear customs. The process typically includes:
- Duties & Taxes: These depend on the HS code (Harmonized System code) of the goods, as well as the country’s import laws.
- Customs Broker: You may need a customs broker to handle the paperwork and ensure everything is processed smoothly.
7. Air Freight Packaging
Air freight packaging must be sturdy to withstand the handling during transit. Here are a few key considerations:
- Use strong boxes or containers to protect your goods.
- Labeling: Make sure all packages are clearly labeled with the necessary information, including weight and destination.
- Pallets: If shipping large or heavy goods, it’s best to use pallets for easier handling and stability.
8. Air Freight vs. Sea Freight
- Air Freight: Best for smaller, higher-value, and time-sensitive shipments. It is faster but more expensive.
- Sea Freight: Ideal for bulk shipments, especially those that are not urgent. It takes longer but is much cheaper for large volumes.
9. How to Book Air Freight from China
- Directly with Airlines: If you’re comfortable with booking directly, you can contact airlines like China Eastern Airlines or China Southern Airlines.
- Freight Forwarders: For a more streamlined process, use freight forwarders (e.g., Flexport, ShipBob, C.H. Robinson). They handle all aspects of the shipping process, including booking, customs clearance, and delivery.
Would you like more specific information on a particular air freight carrier, or assistance in choosing the best option for your shipment?