Air Freight
Air freight service is an integral part of modern logistics, providing the quickest, most reliable, and globally comprehensive method for shipping goods. Air freight is the fastest way to transport goods around the world. It's ideal for businesses that require international air freight shipping for high-value, time-critical, and temperature-sensitive items.
Whether you are shipping pharmaceuticals, electronics, or fresh products, air freight provides the speed and reliability for your cargo to arrive quickly and safely.
This ultimate guide explains everything about air freight services, from basic concepts to types of services offered, processes, pricing, and benefits. Once you understand air freight correctly, you will be able to make more informed decisions about utilising this transport method effectively.
Let’s learn a little about the reasons so many businesses and freight forwarders have chosen air freight as their preferred mode of transport and how our air freight services can assist you in addressing your needs.
What Is Air Freight?
Air freight is the process of shipping goods via aeroplane, providing a quick and safe way for businesses to ship high-value, high-priority, or perishable items.
Air freight is important in global business trade because it enables companies to ship goods quickly to nearly any destination worldwide. No other option can transport your goods in just a few days, rather than weeks, compared to other freight methods. Air freight is often chosen as the primary means to ship urgent goods.
Air freight is the best option for businesses with time-sensitive or valuable cargo, as it offers short transit times for international shipping. It is essential to understand the meaning of air freight and some of the associated processes so that you can leverage international air freight shipping for your freight needs.
Shipping companies such as DHL, CEVA Logistics, FedEx, and UPS offer international freight services, and generally have a network of air freight transportation services that provide high reliability for any business that may need air freight shipping services.
Definition and Core Concepts
Air freight service can be reliable and expedient, with increased security and reduced transit time to avoid loss or damage from the elements. Air freight is widely used for shipping internationally due to its short shipping times. Although the cost per mile is higher compared to ocean or ground freight, the benefits often outweigh the higher price.
This method is advantageous in several examples but most commonly in shipping electronics, pharmaceuticals, and fresh produce. All of which need to be shipped in good condition as soon as possible. In short, air freight is one of the best modes of transport for international trade.
Difference Between Air Freight and Air Shipping
Although the terms "air freight" and "air shipping" are often used interchangeably, they have different meanings. Air shipping is a more generic term that encompasses the transportation of goods via air, including passenger luggage, parcels, and large-scale cargo shipments. Air freight is only commercial cargo transported via a dedicated cargo aircraft or freight services that are separate from passenger service. Air freight is also usually oriented toward business-to-business, or business-to-consumer transactions.
While the terms are typically interchangeable, knowing the difference between them can help businesses identify the most relevant service for their specific shipment, whether it be commercial shipping, a freight shipment, or a small parcel.
When to Choose Air Freight Over Ocean or Ground Transport
When there is a need for speed, security, or specialized handling; air freight is the best option. Below are the critical cases in which air freight provides a clear advantage over ocean freight or ground shipment:
Speed
Air freight is much faster than ocean freight or ground transport, moving goods in days instead of weeks. When companies have shipments that are time-sensitive, such as perishable goods or documents that must arrive by a deadline, air freight is probably the best option.
Security
The security policies in place at airports reduce the chances of stolen and damaged packages, therefore making air freight a possible option for valuable or sensitive shipments.
Global Reach
Air freight connects freight to the largest number of locations or destinations, including remote locations that cannot be reached by ocean or water transport.
Reliability
Air freight is less susceptible to weather disruptions like ocean freight and port delays like ground freight, resulting in more reliable delivery times.
Specialized Services
Air freight can also provide specialized services to certain types of freight like pharmaceuticals or electronic freight. If a company requires temperature-controlled shipping and other special services, air freight is better suited than ground options.
While it is usually more expensive than any other form of transport, the company should consider the cost-benefit with respect to its shipping needs for the best shipping option.
Types of Air Freight Services
Air freight is not a one-size-fits-all service. Depending on how soon you need your shipment, the type of product being shipped, your budget, and special needs, there are various types of services you can access. Below is a list of different kinds of air freight services you may encounter.
Standard Air Freight
Standard air freight services offer a service level that balances cost and speed, consisting of reliable shipment solutions for shipments that need to be delivered faster than ocean freight but do not require express services.
Air Priority
Air Priority provides contracted deliveries for shipments that can be delivered faster than standard air freight without the added cost of express delivery.
Air Economy
An economical service level for basic shipments, Air Economy offers reasonable service and delivery without the same urgency that requires £300.00 for priority service. It is ideal for reliability, as underwriters will give a fair price for a shipment moved via a perfect service provider.
Air Tailored Lift
A customized service level, for example, DHL's Air Tailored Lift provides multiple levels of services on scheduled and routed that fits specific cargo demands at rates fit for tailored rates for routed lift, home spending plans will be cool; the contact rate of cargo will exceed usual service involvement when providing guide services and express options;
AirFreight Plus
A service level that may or may not have added or enhanced options like live tracking, priority handling, etc., depending on the provider.
Express & SameDay Air Freight
Express and SameDay can deliver urgent cargo in a matter of hours or days, and are suited to fulfilling your needs when requesting a shipment. SameDay and Express services use speed as the primary factor in getting your shipment to you and utilize dedicated flights or have a premium service as a main priority. These services are best to consider when you need to ship critical spare parts or medical supplies.
DHL SameDay (Jetline, Speedline, Sprintline)
DHL provides express services within their SameDay and also provides Jetline, Speedline, and Sprintline to serve your urgent or time sensitive shipments. Jetline has dedicated aircraft (for large urgent shipments) to carry your cargo, while Speedline and Sprintline offer "Next-Flight-Out" services for smaller weight and size parcels better suited for urgent shipment. Given your options these services are well-suited to getting your legal freight and/or medical supplies to you urgently and as quickly as possible. Contact our to request a DHL SameDay.
FedEx Custom Critical
FedEx Custom Critical: They offer a unique service. For example, air charter, or time definite delivery for the most urgent shipments (FedEx Air Freight).
UPS Express Critical
UPS Express Critical is a Guaranteed delivery options for the most urgent cargo. Delivery can be a couple hours or a couple days (UPS Air Freight).
Both premium services for expedited delivery using special handling and priority delivery that come with a premium cost.H4 DHL SameDay (Jetline, Speedline, Sprintline)
Specialized Services
Specialized are designed for unique shipments like temperature-controlled goods and hazardous materials while ensuring compliance with all regulations. These specialized services are useful for industries that have more complex cargo and freight requirements, comparable to pharmaceuticals or heavy machinery. Service providers use technology to ensure that cargo is transported in as safe a manner as possible. Find out how our can help develop an air freight solution for your specialized cargo.
Pharmaceutical Air Freight (GxP, CRT, IoT Monitoring)
Transporting pharmaceuticals via air freight must be done under temperature and environmental constraints that meet GxP requirements. Controlled Room Temperature (CRT) technologies include studies where route stressors (deviations from the norm) can create temperature tolerances. Internet of Things (IoT) can observe temperature and humidity, which is an essential element during temperature-controlled air freight from China to USA. The pharmaceutical air freight services we offer ensure that valuable life-saving drugs are transported correctly. Now is the time to request an air freight quote for pharmaceutical time- and temperature-sensitive shipping in a GxP compliant way.
Dangerous Goods & Heavy Lift Cargo
Request a or for the safe transportation of hazardous cargo or large equipment via air. Unsafe products such as chemicals, need to be transported using that meet IATA . Heavy lift cargo (industrial equipment) requires specialized . Freight services ensure safe and secure handling, along with the required documentation.
Perishable Goods & Temperature-Controlled Shipping
Perishable goods (like seafood, and flowers) need temperature controlled and monitored air freight services to keep things fresh! Specialized thermal regulated air freight containers, and cooling systems, help reduce spoilage during air freight from China to UK, as well as distance. Temperature tolerances and real-time temperature and humidity monitoring will ensure that when a perishables arrive at their destination, they remain in the condition required. With a quick contact of an air freight agent from ABH Goods When You Want Have No Big Issues with Perishables Shipping.
Air Charter and Onboard Courier Services
There are comanies that allow for large or urgent onsite Air charter service can offer flexibility for . With high value items such as prototypes, on-board couriers can travel with your cargo, while providing security of the cargo. Providing speed and visibility is important to premium air services. Feel free to get in touch with our for assistance to find out more about air charter or courier services.
The Air Freight Process Step-by-Step
Within the , there are various stages from booking to delivery, allowing for efficient transport. Each stage requires coordination between shippers, , and airlines. Understanding this process will help you make the best use of your . Following, we will outline the journey of your so that you can have a seamless logistics experience.
Planning, Booking & Scheduling
Planning your includes determining the type of cargo, the ultimate destination, and when it is needed. This is especially critical for . During the booking stage, the sender and shipper find and reserve cargo space on an . Once booked, scheduling can take place in a standby fashion based on the availability of a flight schedule. If prior planning is not done ahead of time, ordering equipment and packing can result in delays to transport, and properly planning will allow you to utilize your to its fullest extent. Feel free to start the booking process with our trained .
Prepping, Packing & Labeling
Preparing your for air shipping requires safe packaging to endure the handling processes used during and any changes in pressure. Tagging with IATA-approved tags will ensure proper handling and correct dispatch information. Completing this step is essential as you are reducing the chance for damage to your cargo while it is . Our can provide details on packing standards that comply with IATA compliance.
Collection, Consolidation & Airport Handling
Cargo is collected and consolidated in a warehouse prior to minimize costs. If you're exporting from a consolidated warehouse, your cargo then will be screened for security purposes at the airport and loaded for transport, including , while ensuring that it leaves on time for . Our team can trust with making sure your cargo is handled propperly at the airport.
Customs Clearance & Documentation
Clear customs for requires like the Commercial Invoice and Air Waybill. Compliance with import/export regulations avoids slowing down . Freight forwarders streamline it for efficiency. Clear it hassle-free with our expertise.
Air Transportation & Tracking
As part of the process, freight is loaded onboard planes and sent to its destination point. The latest involves IoT Devices being fitted for this cargo and assisting in tracking important content/location and conditions of the which provides visibility for your shipment, and hopefully transparency. Check out our tools that can be helpful with your shipment.
Final Delivery (Door-to-Door or Airport-to-Airport)
final delivery options are airport-to-airport, in which pickup is taken care of by the recipient, or door-to-door for . Door-to-door includes last-mile logistics, which is ideal for . Speed of delivery differs according to service. Get a for your selected delivery options.
Key Documents in Air Freight
To be sure of smooth customs clearance in , submitting complete is critical. Lack of documentation or incomplete documentation is a reason for delay or possibly, fines for . The Air Waybill and Commercial Invoice are some of the documentation required. Our will make sure your documentation is complete.
Air Waybill (AWB)
The Air Waybill (AWB), a key represented a contract between shipper; . It includes cargo weight, description and destination; and is helpful for . Please note, the AWB is a required document on all }. Your can help you prepare the Air Waybill.
Commercial Invoice & Certificate of Origin
The Commercial Invoice will detail the cargo value, and quantity. This informs customs who will use this document to collect duties for . The Certificate of Origin confirms the goods' country of origin, which is important for . Both of these documents are essential for compliance. Be sure to check your for accuracy!
Packing List & Dangerous Goods Declaration
The Packing List indicates what is in, assists with customs and with . The Dangerous Goods Declaration for dangerous goods follows IATA These documents enable the transport of dangerous goods safely. Our will assist you in preparing these documents.
Import/Export Licenses & Other Customs Documents
If you are moving restricted goods, such as pharmaceuticals, in , you will need import/export licenses. There are other types of documentation required when it comes to customs clearance, like health certificates for goods of origins. Having correct paperwork is crucial towards not delaying the movement of cargo. Your will guide you through proper documentation for freight activities.
Cost of Air Freight Shipping
The can be significantly more expensive than other forms of transportation due to its weight, volumetric weight, and service level. Knowing the and fees will make it easier to budget for air freight when shipping from China. Although your costs may not be exactly the same as the estimates as well as associated fees will vary from freight, you can use our for any quotes needed. Below are some elements that affect . H3 How Air Freight Rates Are Calculated.
Dimensional Weight vs Actual Weight
Air freight rates are primarily influenced by chargeable weight, route and service level for air freight cargo. The dimensions of the cargo, the dimensional weight calculation for air freight, as well as the actual weight together, determine the costs involved. The rates also change frequently as market demand, capacity and fuel costs change. You may use our air freight cost calculator for an air freight estimate!
Volumetric Weight Formula
The is (Length x Width x Height in cm) ÷ 6,000 resulting in kilograms. This equation calculates how much space will be used for . Correct measures will eliminate the chances of receiving unexpected costs for your . Receive with our tools for evaluating volumetric weight.
H4 Chargeable Weight Explained
Chargeable weight, the higher of the actual weight or volumetric weight, will be used to charge for . Even if your shipment is really large and takes up a lot of space, it’s possible that your may be greater, based on volumetric weight, therefore it is very important to understand this weight calculation so that you can budget accordingly for your . Ou will help clarify for you the chargeable weight for your shipments.
Dimensional Weight vs Actual Weight
Air freight rates are primarily influenced by chargeable weight, route and service level for air freight cargo. The dimensions of the cargo, the dimensional weight calculation for air freight, as well as the actual weight together, determine the costs involved. The rates also change frequently as market demand, capacity and fuel costs change. You may use our air freight cost calculator for an air freight estimate!
Volumetric Weight Formula
The is (Length x Width x Height in cm) ÷ 6,000 resulting in kilograms. This equation calculates how much space will be used for . Correct measures will eliminate the chances of receiving unexpected costs for your . Receive with our tools for evaluating volumetric weight.
Chargeable Weight Explained
Chargeable weight, the higher of the actual weight or volumetric weight, will be used to charge for . Even if your shipment is really large and takes up a lot of space, it’s possible that your may be greater, based on volumetric weight, therefore it is very important to understand this weight calculation so that you can budget accordingly for your . Ou will help clarify for you the chargeable weight for your shipments.
Fuel Surcharges and Airport Handling Fees
Fuel surcharges are levies to cover fluctuating fuel costs and influence . Airport handling fees cover and storage of freight. These are applicable and contribute to the overall for this kind of process of issued . Transparent s contain these details so there are no surprises at the time of shipment.
Customs Duties, Taxes & Insurance
Duties and taxes are charged after a cargo value assessment (which increases the). Insurance, which protects you if your shipment is lost, is valuable for . A freight forwarder estimates these costs before cargo leaves your door - if you want an accurate budget, include them in your .
Tools for Getting Freight
Quotes (Freightos, UPS Hub, FedEx Tools)
Systems like Freightos, UPS Hub and FedEx Tools allow you to get a for ! These sites include surcharges, compare , and make your booking seamless for your . Or simply run our to compare rates.
Benefits and Limitations of Air Freight
Air freight is fast and safe. However, it does have downsides like being expensive and additional tariff regulations and costs. can be used globally. However, there are limitations and it takes planning. There are pros and cons that we must consider for your . See below on pros and cons.
Advantages: Speed, Security, Global Reach, Visibility
Air freight is delivered in days or hours--far faster than ocean freight, making air freight from China to Germany convenient. Strict protocols ensure security when transporting valuable air freight cargo. Global reach and air freight tracking offer unrivaled connectivity and transparency. For these reasons, air freight services rank top on the list of choices.
Disadvantages: High Cost, Size Limits, Environmental Impact
Air freight cost is higher than other methods of transporting goods by air so it may affect the budget for air freight cargo transport. Size and weight restrictions prevent oversized items, and they may need to be shipped differently. Fuel use in air freight shipping causes environmental concerns. It is important to plan strategically with our air freight specialist to minimize some of these issues.
Factors That Influence Air Freight Decisions
The choice of is based heavily on the type of cargo, destination location, and global and local regulations, all of which will dictate your . These are important considerations when finding the best service for . If you understand these factors, they can help in making cost-efficient and effective decisions. See below for the main factors influencing your decisions.
Type of Goods
(Pharmaceutical, Perishable, Oversized)
Healthcare effective for pharmaceuticals will be GxP-compliant. Most perishable goods for will require temperature control. In cases where oversized goods will not fit into commercial , companies may need to arrange with chartered flights. The characteristics of the cargo will drive service selection for . In addition, our has experience and efficiency matching goods to their optimal solutions.
Destination & Trade Routes
Places like will have some frequent services but remote areas may limit the choices for shippers. Major shipping lanes will help everyone keep their competitive. The existence of the direct route is something to keep into consideration when planning for your . Get a from our and be sure to mention the route.
Shipping Timeframe & Seasonality
When you have urgent time frames, it would be prudent to place your trust in when making your arrangements. There are added costs to this service up front but economic times will also exist during the busy peak seasons that impact your . To reduce some of the costs associated with {{air freight costs}} it is smart to build and manage your freight movements with seasonality in mind . Allow our to manage your timings when moving your freight in a high demand time.
Regulatory Requirements (GxP, IATA, Dangerous Goods)
GxP and IATA air freight terms control pharmaceuticals and dangerous goods in air freight international shipping. Compliance avoids delays for air freight cargo. Freight forwarders translate these regulations into air freight from China. Reinforce compliance with our air freight forwarder's expertise.
Major Global Air Freight Providers
Best like FedEx and DHL offer safe for . They ensure routes that provide worldwide access and speed. The appropriate provider makes your most effective. Here, we present best.
DHL Global Forwarding & SameDay Services
DHL Global Forwarding provides comprehensive , such as temperature-controlled ones, for . Its SameDay services like Sprintline carry essential. DHL's global network ensures assurance. Get a for DHL's tailored solutions.
FedEx Express & Custom Critical
FedEx Express offers fast for FedEx Custom Critical ships critical, time-sensitive with 24/7 . It has the fleet capacity for efficient logistics. Get in touch for a detailed air freight estimate tailored to your cargo requirements.
UPS Supply Chain Solutions & Forwarding Hub
UPS Supply Chain Solutions offers air freight services for advanced supply chains, such as air freight from Germany to China. Its Forwarding Hub streamlines with customs support. UPS dominates the healthcare and retail industries. Request a UPS air freight quote from our air freight agent.
Maersk Air Freight & Ocean-Air Options
Maersk Air Freight offers integrated and ocean-air solutions for . Automotive and electronics sectors are best matched with its service. Maersk offers convenient multimodal logistics. Explore Maersk's potential with our for an .
Freightos – Digital Freight Platform
Freightos is an online platform for instant air freight quotes. it simplifies air freight logistics and connects companies with air freight carriers for optimal air freight rates. Book your next using Freightos.
Tools and Technologies in Air Freight
Advanced technology is integrated into air freight logistics, encompassing air freight tracking and environmentally friendly processes. IoT devices and cold chain technology enhance air freight services efficiency. Such technologies contribute to international air freight shipping. View the technologies shaping below.
Real-Time Tracking & IoT Devices
Real-time by IoT devices maintains a record of status and location. Such equipment offers transparency on . Issues are being solved by the companies at the moment. Our involve advanced tracking solutions.
Cold Chain Logistics for Life Sciences
Cold chain logistics maintain temperature conditions for like vaccines in . Advanced systems satisfy GxP demands. Expert providers like DHL offer solutions. Transport pharmaceuticals safely with our.
Route Optimization & Emission Reduction
Route optimization saves transit time and for. AI technology selects fuel-efficient routes, minimizing emissions in . Sustainability is the top priority for . Our specialists leverage these technologies for efficiency.
Supplier Quality Agreements & SOP Manageme
Supplier Quality Agreements are standard . SOPs control and adherence to guidelines. Automated systems reduce mistakes. Find a variety of SOPs through our and have effective control over SOPs!
FAQ
Air freight rates per kilogram are typically between $4.00 and $8.00, varying based on route, cargo, and service for air freight from China. The costs of air freight from China are influenced by factors such as volumetric weight calculations for air freight, freight surcharges, and other charges that impact air freight pricing when obtaining air freight quotes. For accurate air freight prices, use an air freight cost calculator or request air freight quotes.
International air freight cargo requires documents such as an Air Waybill (AWB), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Certificate of Origin at a minimum. For air freight from China to the United States, additional air freight documents, such as licenses, may be required. Compliance with documentation can eliminate delays hassle. Our air freight forwarder will ensure documentation is sufficient.
Express is typically 1–2 DAYS and can include SameDay services, where packages arrive within HOURS from . The speed of service will depend on the delivery destination and the availability of flights. allows you to see where your items are currently at. You can contact one of our air freight specialists to discuss
Yes, hazardous material and oversized are shipable using IATA-approved . There are unique and documentation needs. Charters can be booked for oversized products. Request a for safe shipping alternatives.
Airport-to-airport delivers cargo airport to airport, and the receiver organizes pickup. Door-to-door involves total logistics for . Door-to-door is costly but easy. Choose as per your needs with our .
Receive a free from China, or speak with one of our s today to make your global logistics easy.
