When looking for cheap air freight from China, the key factors to consider are shipment size, weight, delivery speed, and the air freight carrier you choose. While air freight is generally faster than sea freight, it tends to be more expensive. However, there are several strategies to get the best deal on air freight.

Ways to Find Cheap Air Freight from China

1. Consolidated Air Freight
   • What It Is: This involves sharing space on a flight with other shipments, meaning the cost is divided among all customers. It’s cheaper than booking a full flight.
   • Best For: Small shipments that don’t fill an entire container.
   • How to Do It: Work with a freight forwarder who can consolidate your goods with other shipments, such as Bansar or Flexport.
2. Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder
   • Freight Forwarders: Partnering with an experienced freight forwarder can help reduce costs, as they often have good relationships with air carriers and can offer discounted rates for bulk or regular shipments.
   • Some reliable freight forwarders for air freight from China include:
     • Bansar: Known for affordable air freight and global delivery.
     • Sinotrans: A major Chinese logistics provider with air freight options.
     • Flexport: A modern digital logistics platform offering competitive rates and easy tracking.
3. Shipping During Off-Peak Seasons
   • Air freight rates fluctuate based on demand. Prices are typically higher during peak seasons like holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, Christmas). If possible, schedule shipments during off-peak times to reduce costs.
4. Air Freight Size and Weight Optimization
   • Dimensional Weight: Airlines charge based on the weight or volume of the shipment, whichever is higher. This means that optimizing packaging (making it more compact) can save you money.
   • Bulk Shipments: If you are shipping large quantities, negotiating bulk rates with your freight forwarder can reduce the per-kilogram cost.
5. Choose the Right Air Carrier
   • Major Airlines: Larger carriers may offer competitive rates and discounts for regular customers. Examples include China Southern Airlines, Air China, and Hainan Airlines.
   • Cargo Airlines: There are also specialized cargo airlines like Cargolux and Schenker that can offer discounted rates for certain destinations.

Popular Air Freight Companies for Cheap Shipping from China

Here are some companies known for offering cost-effective air freight services from China:

1. Bansar Shipping
   • Specializes in offering affordable air freight solutions from China to worldwide destinations.
   • Provides consolidated air freight and door-to-door services.
   • Website: Bansar Shipping
2. Sinotrans
   • One of the largest logistics companies in China, offering air freight options at competitive prices.
   • Offers consolidation services to help reduce costs.
   • Website: Sinotrans
3. Flexport
   • A modern freight forwarder that offers digital tools to get competitive air freight rates.
   • Flexible services with real-time tracking and shipment management.
   • Website: Flexport
4. China Post EMS
   • Affordable for small air shipments, with options for express or economy air freight.
   • A popular choice for smaller shipments and lower-cost options.
   • Website: China Post EMS
5. SF Express
   • A leading Chinese express courier with affordable air freight options for smaller and medium-sized shipments.
   • Offers both domestic and international air freight services.
   • Website: SF Express
6. UPS and DHL
   • Both UPS and DHL offer international air freight options, with expedited shipping for faster delivery times. They may not always be the cheapest but can be ideal for urgent shipments.
   • Websites: UPS | DHL
7. China Airlines Cargo
   • A major airline offering air freight services from China with regular flights to various countries. Offers bulk shipment discounts.
   • Website: China Airlines Cargo
8. Kuehne + Nagel
   • A global logistics provider with a wide range of air freight services.
   • Offers consolidation and custom air freight options.
   • Website: Kuehne + Nagel

How to Save on Air Freight from China

• Consolidation: Use consolidated air freight services to share a container with other goods, lowering your share of the cost.
• Negotiate Rates: If you’re a frequent shipper, try negotiating better rates with your freight forwarder.
• Shipping Size: Optimize the weight and volume of your goods to avoid extra charges.
• Compare Multiple Quotes: Get quotes from several air freight providers and compare their rates, services, and delivery times.

Would you like help in contacting any of these forwarders or need a quote for a specific shipment?