Your trusted Air Freight Forwarder from China since 2008
Air freight from China to another country can be challenging, with numerous variables to manage. Navigating the various laws and regulations in different jurisdictions is no easy task for those who aren’t experienced. But don’t worry! Our services are designed to meet all your shipping needs. You’ve come to the right place—by reading through this page, you’ll learn everything you need to know about air freight from China. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be able to handle shipments smoothly and ensure you’re never taken advantage of by unreliable shipping agents.
What is air freight?
Air freight refers to the transportation of goods by aircraft, moving products from one airport to another. Shipping from China to international destinations via air freight is a fast solution for large packages like furniture, car parts, or other bulky items. Although container shipping is an option, it may not meet the necessary delivery deadlines.
Before arranging air freight from your supplier’s factory in China to your destination, make sure you understand the required documentation, the typical shipping time for air freight, how your China freight forwarder calculates charge weight, and the expected air freight rates. With this knowledge, you’ll be in a stronger position and less likely to be overcharged by your China shipping agent.
Besides the five basic documents required for air freight, there may be additional special documents needed depending on the destination country and the type of products being shipped.
To ensure everything is in order for your shipment, please contact us to clarify which specific documents are required for your cargo and destination. We’ll assist you in gathering the necessary paperwork for a smooth shipping process.
What documents are required for air freight from China?
For air freight from China, several key documents are required to ensure smooth and efficient shipping. Here’s what you’ll need:
Airway Bill
Regardless of which airline you choose, the airline will issue an Airway Bill when shipping goods from China to another country. This document contains important details, including the sender’s and receiver’s information, shipment contents (quantity, CBM, gross weight), shipping times, and ETD (Estimated Time of Departure). It’s one of the most crucial documents for air freight.Commercial Invoice
A Commercial Invoice is required by customs authorities to determine the actual value of the imported goods. It must clearly identify the buyer and seller, include the sale date and terms, quantity, weight/volume, full description of the goods, unit value, and total value. This document ensures successful customs clearance and avoids delays.Packing List
The Packing List is a detailed inventory of the cargo, providing the same information as the Commercial Invoice. It’s used to verify the contents of the shipment and is essential for customs processing.Certificate of Origin (C/O)
The Certificate of Origin (C/O), sometimes referred to as Form A, is a document that certifies the origin of the goods. It’s required in international trade to prove that the products were manufactured in a specific country.Insurance Certificate
This certificate provides details of the insurance coverage for your goods during transit. It outlines the terms, conditions, and policy details, helping you track any changes or updates to your insurance coverage.Delivery Order
The Delivery Order is another important document in international shipping, which authorizes the delivery of goods to the consignee once they arrive at their destination.
Make sure all these documents are completed accurately to avoid delays and ensure smooth customs clearance for your air freight shipments.
What is the typical shipping duration for air freight from China?
Experience seamless shipments from your Chinese supplier’s factory directly to your local airport or doorstep with our reliable air freight services. Our comprehensive shipping timeline includes:
Pickup Time: Typically spans 1-3 days, contingent on the distance between your supplier’s factory and the designated Chinese export airport. If your factory is located in the same city as the export airport, pickups can be completed within a few hours. For factories in northern China, shipments are often dispatched via southern airports to take advantage of lower unit costs, usually requiring 2-3 days.
Air Freight Duration: Flight times between airports generally range from 1-3 days. Direct flights complete the journey in just a few hours, while routes involving transits at intermediary airports may extend the duration to 1-3 days.
Delivery Time: Expect delivery within 2-3 days post-flight. This period accounts for necessary customs declarations, which typically take 1-2 days to process before dispatch.
Total Shipping Time: From your Chinese supplier’s factory to your destination door, air freight shipping takes approximately 3-9 days.
Affordable Shipping Solutions from China to South Africa
Choose our cost-effective air freight services to ensure your goods arrive swiftly and safely, all while keeping expenses low.
How to calculate the chargeable weight for air freight
Air freight is renowned as one of the quickest shipping methods from China, though its unit price is generally higher than that of ocean freight. Therefore, minimizing the chargeable weight of your air shipments is essential to keep shipping costs down.
But how do you calculate air freight chargeable weight? Is it the same as volumetric weight? What differentiates dimensional weight from chargeable weight? In this section, we provide all the details on calculating your air freight chargeable weight, helping you save significantly even if you choose air freight as your primary shipping method.
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Recognizing that the chargeable weight of air freight directly influences the overall shipping expenses, let’s identify the two primary factors that determine the final weight:
Understanding Gross Weight in Air Freight Shipping
Gross (Actual) Weight Gross weight is the total measurement of your cargo, encompassing both the shipments and the pallets.
Example Calculation Consider a pallet with dimensions 120cm × 110cm × 100cm and a gross weight of 300KG. To determine the volumetric or dimensional weight, use the following formula:
Volumetric Weight=120×110×1006000=220KG\text{Volumetric Weight} = \frac{120 \times 110 \times 100}{6000} = 220 \text{KG}
Comparison and Final Chargeable Weight
- Gross Weight: 300KG
- Volumetric Weight: 220KG
Since 300KG is greater than 220KG, the final chargeable weight for this pallet is 300KG.
Understanding Volumetric and Dimensional Weight in Air Freight Shipping
Volumetric weight, also known as dimensional weight, is determined by the dimensions of your cartons—specifically, the length, width, and height.
Example to Illustrate Chargeable Weight:
Client A intends to ship a sofa from China to Country A via air freight. The sofa has a gross weight of 80KG, and its package dimensions are:
- Length: 250cm
- Width: 100cm
- Height: 110cm
Calculating Volumetric Weight: Volumetric Weight=250×100×1106000=458.3KG≈454KG\text{Volumetric Weight} = \frac{250 \times 100 \times 110}{6000} = 458.3 \text{KG} \approx 454 \text{KG}
Comparison:
- Gross Weight: 80KG
- Volumetric Weight: 454KG
Since 454KG (volumetric weight) is greater than 80KG (gross weight), the chargeable weight for this shipment is 454KG.
Understanding the distinction between gross weight and volumetric weight ensures accurate cost calculations for your air freight shipments, helping you optimize shipping expenses effectively.
Now that we understand the basics, the chargeable weight for an air freight shipment is determined by comparing gross weight and volumetric weight. If the gross weight surpasses the volumetric weight, the final chargeable weight will be the gross weight. Conversely, if the volumetric weight exceeds the gross weight, the chargeable weight will be based on the volumetric measurement. This ultimate approach ensures accurate and cost-effective shipping solutions.
Provide your shipment's packing list, and our expert services will calculate the chargeable weight for your shipments within just 5 minutes of receiving your inquiry.
What is the Air Freight Shipping Rates from China?
Air Freight Costs from China to Overseas Typically Consist of 3 Key Components:
1. Pick-Up Costs in Mainland China:
Our pick-up services are cost-effective when you choose us as your China shipping agent. For small shipments, we offer complimentary pick-up directly from your supplier’s factory.
For larger shipments, such as picking up 500KG of goods from a local site to the airport, the cost typically ranges between $50-80 USD. To provide an accurate estimate, please provide the exact pick-up address and the designated airport in China.
Given the vastness of China, we efficiently handle shipments from numerous major cities to international destinations. Providing detailed information when you inquire ensures precise and reliable service.
Additionally, if you operate under FOB trade terms with your Chinese suppliers, you won’t need to pay these pick-up fees, as the supplier will manage the transportation of goods to the export airport.
2. Air Freight Costs: From Airport to Airport
Air freight costs experience frequent changes, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19. The unit price for shipping air freight from China to overseas destinations can vary almost weekly or even multiple times within a single week. This volatility makes it challenging to create a fixed quotation sheet displaying unit prices from China to each country.
However, if you’re developing a project budget and only need an approximate cost without requiring exact figures, you can reference the following estimated ranges:
- Air Freight Cost from China to the US: $5–$9 per kg
- Air Freight Cost from China to European Countries: $6–$10 per kg
- Air Freight Cost from China to Australia: $6–$10 per kg
- Air Freight Cost from China to Africa: $10–$15 per kg
These estimates provide a general guideline to help you plan your shipping expenses effectively, even amidst the dynamic pricing landscape of air freight.
3. Delivery Costs: From Airport to Your Doorstep
Typically, delivery costs remain reasonable when you partner with us for door-to-door service. Our charges range from $50 to $500 per shipment, depending on several key factors:
- Distance: The length between the airport and your doorstep plays a significant role in determining the final cost.
- Chargeable Weight: The weight of each shipment influences the overall delivery expense.
- Shipping Seasons: Timing is crucial. Shipping during peak seasons, such as the weeks leading up to Christmas or the Chinese New Year, can result in higher air freight and shipping solution costs compared to regular days.
Important Note: If you operate under FOB trade terms with your suppliers, you won’t incur these delivery fees. FOB terms require the supplier to handle transportation of goods to the export airport in China, eliminating the need for additional delivery charges.
To ensure you receive the most accurate and competitive pricing, we recommend sending us an inquiry before each shipment. This proactive approach helps you avoid unexpected costs and makes informed shipping decisions, ensuring your shipments are both cost-effective and efficiently managed.
Partner with Us for Reliable and Affordable Delivery Solutions
By choosing our expert delivery services, you benefit from transparent pricing and dedicated support, making your shipping experience smooth and worry-free.
Top 11 Chinese Export Airports
When you choose to import from China, the first step is to identify reliable Chinese suppliers and partner with a trustworthy freight forwarder like DFH to manage all your shipments. By working with our dedicated freight forwarding services, you eliminate concerns about coordinating with suppliers across various cities due to high air freight costs or shipping challenges. We expertly handle all shipments within Mainland China, ensuring a seamless and efficient logistics process.
Even if your suppliers are located outside the major export cities, we can arrange pickup for your shipments and deliver them to you using your preferred shipping methods. Below are the top 11 export airports in China, providing you with optimal options for your international shipping needs.
1. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Beijing Capital International Airport is one of the two major international gateways in China’s bustling capital city, Beijing. Renowned for its expansive flight network and state-of-the-art facilities, PEK serves as a pivotal hub for both passenger and cargo traffic.
3. Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport is situated in the southern region of China, just an hour's journey from Hong Kong by car or train. Additionally, it is conveniently near Guangzhou, the capital city of Guangdong Province, enhancing its accessibility and connectivity for seamless logistics and transportation.
5. Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH)
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport is prominently located in the bustling city of Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province. The airport has undergone significant expansion, now offering a wide range of flights from multiple carriers across the Asia Pacific region. As a vital transportation hub, Xiaoshan International Airport efficiently serves major cities throughout Asia and Europe, playing a key role in facilitating smooth and reliable international travel and trade.
7. Fuzhou Changle International Airport (FOC)
Fuzhou Changle International Airport stands as one of China's premier airports, serving as a vital hub for both domestic and international travelers. Known also as an autodrome, it annually hosts numerous car races, with vehicles speeding around tracks that encircle its terminals and airport facilities!
9. Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) in China proudly ranks as the fourth busiest airport for international travel and exports, seamlessly connecting travelers and businesses across the globe.
10. Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG)
Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) serves as the primary gateway for Kunming, the vibrant capital of Yunnan Province in China, efficiently managing a wide array of domestic and international flights with excellence.
2. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Shanghai is home to two major international airports: Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). Both airports are operated by the state-owned Shanghai Airport Authority (SAA), ensuring exceptional facilities and streamlined operations.
4. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport stands as the second busiest airport in China, strategically located just outside the vibrant Guangzhou City. As a major aviation hub in southern China, CAN is operated by the state-owned Guangzhou Baiyun Airport Group and is renowned for its extensive domestic and international flight network.
6. Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN)
Xiamen Airport stands as one of Asia's busiest international hubs for flights to and from China, accommodating airlines like Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines, among others. It also offers services to numerous major cities worldwide, including Tokyo Haneda (YOW) and Beijing Capital_ Chaser981 (PVG).
8. Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY)
Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) is situated in the vibrant city of Xi’an and has experienced remarkable growth since its establishment. The state-of-the-art terminal, with an investment exceeding $8 billion, was proudly funded by both the Chinese government and local residents, enhancing the airport's capacity and services.
11. Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport (TAO)
The airport's name clearly defines its role as a gateway connecting countries across Asia and Europe. Additionally, it efficiently handles numerous domestic flights within China, making its location ideal for travelers seeking both international and domestic access.
What types of goods are eligible for air freight shipping from China?
The following goods are eligible for air freight from China, ensuring efficient and reliable shipping:
- Machinery and Equipment
- Foodstuffs
- Textiles and Apparel
- Light Apparel
- Medical Equipment
- Telecommunication Gear
- Capped Jewellery
- Musical Instruments
- Computers and Television Sets
- Personalized Gifts
- Carpets and Paper Products
- Toys and Perfumes
- Jewelry and Furniture
- Appliances for Kitchen, Dining, Living, and Entertainment
- Sporting Goods
- Wound Care, Respiratory, and Diagnostic Equipment for Hospitals
- Chemical Products
- Aluminum, Plastic, and Rubber
- Platinum, Semi-Precious Stones, and Precious Metals
- Tin and Zinc
- Other Diverse Goods
Air freight from China accommodates a comprehensive range of products, catering to various industries and consumer needs with speed and precision.
What types of goods are prohibited from being shipped by air freight from China?
While the majority of products can be air freighted from China to various international destinations, there are still numerous items that are prohibited from being shipped by air. Below is a summary of some of the products that cannot be air freighted from China, including but not limited to:
- Aerosol Sprays
- Cans
- Weapons
- Firearms
- Ammunition
- Explosive Devices
- Gear Boxes
- Generators
- Engines
- Life Jackets
- Fire Extinguishers
- Ivory and Ivory-Made Items
- Bronzes
- Marbles
- Statues
- Antiques
- Valuable Rugs
- Works of Art
- Other Prohibited Items
Ensuring compliance with these restrictions is essential for smooth and lawful air freight operations from China.
Even if your products aren't listed, importing from China remains feasible. Simply reach out to us with an inquiry, and we'll strive to provide you with a tailored offer. Given China's extensive annual exports, there are likely additional goods available for import that may not appear on the current list.
What benefits do you receive when you choose our air freight services from China?
Our clients select our company for air freight shipments because of 12 key advantages. Many of our long-term partners have collaborated with us for over 9 years, thanks to the majority of the following factors.
1. Enjoy Complimentary Warehousing Services
Many of our clients purchase products from various suppliers and prefer to consolidate their shipments for efficiency. However, differing production schedules can lead to delays when coordinating deliveries from multiple sources. With our free warehousing services, your Chinese freight forwarder can securely store your goods until all shipments are ready to be sent together. This seamless storage solution ensures a smooth and timely import process from China, eliminating the hassle of staggered delivery times and enhancing your overall business operations.
3. Complimentary Pickup Service
Partnering with KFH grants you access to our extensive pickup service available in every city across mainland China. With our years of experience, we've secured substantial discounts from top Chinese express carriers, allowing us to offer lower pickup costs than if your suppliers were to send goods directly to our warehouse. Moreover, our pickup service is completely free of charge, helping you save significantly on your overall shipping expenses.
2. Customs Clearance Support
We assist you with both China export and destination country entry customs declarations, ensuring a hassle-free experience even if it's your first time importing from China. With our reliable customs clearance services, you can effortlessly import any products you need from China to any destination country. Trust our expertise to navigate complex customs regulations, streamline the import process, and ensure your shipments arrive smoothly and on time.
4. Affordable Shipping Insurance for High-Value Shipments
We highly recommend purchasing shipping insurance for your high commercial value shipments. This modest investment provides essential protection against any accidents that may occur during transit. Although losses or damages during shipping are infrequent, having insurance ensures that the entire shipping process is safeguarded more effectively. By choosing KFH to assist you with purchasing insurance, you benefit from very competitive prices without any additional handling fees. Let us help you secure your valuable goods with affordable insurance solutions, giving you peace of mind and enhancing the safety of your shipments.
5. Complimentary Repacking Service
Our repacking service usually involves costs for materials such as tape and the time of our workers. However, when you choose to cooperate with us exclusively, we provide this service at no additional charge. For example, if your suppliers use domestic express shipping cartons to send goods to our warehouse and we find that the carton quality is not suitable for international shipping, or if some cartons are damaged during domestic transit, our team will replace them with high-quality cartons and securely tape them for you—all for free. This ensures your shipments meet international standards without any extra costs, enhancing the reliability and professionalism of your deliveries.
7. Customized Sorting and Shipping Services
When purchasing from multiple suppliers, consolidating your shipments can streamline the shipping process and reduce costs. Our KFH team offers a free warehousing service to collect shipments from various suppliers and sort the items according to your specific requirements. With our reliable freight forwarding expertise, we’ll organize, consolidate, and ship out your goods exactly as needed. Just let us know your requirements, and we’ll handle the rest—all at no additional charge.
9. Exceptional Support from Our Professional Team
11. Competitive Rates for All Express Freight Shipments
6. Strict Confidentiality of Client Information
For shipments sent directly from a Chinese factory to your client’s door, it’s often crucial to keep the final receiver's information confidential from the suppliers. By hiring us as your shipping agent, we can assist with discreetly relabeling cartons according to your specifications, ensuring suppliers do not have access to any receiver details. This secure service helps you maintain the privacy of your client’s information, protecting your business relationships and supporting long-term success.
8. Comprehensive Inspection Service Available
If you’re importing from China and need a dependable freight forwarder to inspect your goods, provide necessary documents, and supply photos or videos before you complete the final payment to suppliers, DFH is your ideal partner. Many of our clients trust us with this critical step, and we collaborate with professional third-party inspection companies to ensure thorough quality checks. Plus, we can secure discounted rates for you, making this service both cost-effective and reliable.
10. Guaranteed Shipping Time for All Express Freight Shipments
12. Trustworthy Partnership Focused on Long-Term Cooperation
Discover More Free Services with KFH—Inquire Now!
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Freight from China
How Much Does It Cost to Transport Goods from China to Any Other Country?
Get a general idea of your shipping expenses with our competitive rates ranging from $5 to $15 per kilogram. For an accurate and personalized quote, simply provide us with the following details: Pickup Address in China, Name of the Goods, Delivery Address in the Destination Country, Packing List of Products, With all this information, we can deliver your exact price quote within just two minutes. Contact us today to receive a swift and precise shipping estimate tailored to your specific needs!
How do You Handle Undeliverable Shipments Due to Unreachable Consignee?
We will reattempt delivery, or the consignee may use the guidance on the 'Delivery Absence Notice' to schedule a free re-delivery. Should this second attempt be unsuccessful or if we are unable to reach the consignee, we will promptly inform the shipper and seek further instructions.
When Should I Make Payment for My Shipment?
When you decide to work with us, we will issue a PI, you can pay againest that.
How Much Time is Required for Air Freight Shipments from China?
Our air freight shipments from China typically reach their destination within 5 to 7 days. For a more precise delivery schedule, please provide your pickup address in China and the delivery address in the destination country. With these details, we can offer you an exact estimated arrival time tailored to your specific shipment.
Could you please call and schedule an appointment with the consignee prior to delivery?
Typically, we arrange direct delivery to the specified address. However, if special circumstances require scheduling an appointment with the consignee before delivery, please make this request when placing your order. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.
How can I schedule a collection? Is registration required beforehand?
There's no need for registration. Simply email us at info@Keefreight.com, inform your supplier that KFH will act as your company's shipping agent, and we'll work together with your supplier to manage everything smoothly, step by step.
How Can I Track the Transit Time of My Air Freight Shipment?
Once you receive your Airway Bill, you can conveniently track your shipment online. Our tracking system will display an estimated shipping duration and provide you with the expected arrival time, ensuring you stay informed throughout the entire shipping process.
How do I create a shipment? Is it necessary to open an account?
There's no need to open an account with us. Simply have your supplier ship the goods to our warehouse. Once received, we’ll verify the weight and size, take pictures, and provide you with a quote. After confirmation, we’ll proceed with shipping the goods to you.
How can I proceed if I don’t know the destination postcode?
In case you don’t know the destination postcode, kindly check with the receiver or contact us for assistance. Providing an incorrect postcode can result in delays and additional fees.
Are You Able to Collect and Air Freight My Orders from Multiple Chinese Cities?
Collecting shipments from different suppliers and shipping them together is one of our fundamental services. This approach helps our clients save significant costs and time, which has been a key factor in our company's rapid growth in recent years due to our efficient and cost-effective solutions.
Can You Safely and Reliably Ship Personal Effects via Air Freight from China?
Certainly! Our operations team, consisting of over 25 skilled professionals, offers complimentary repacking and relabeling services. We ensure your shipments are dispatched to their destination safely and efficiently, enhancing your overall shipping experience.
What are the maximum weight and size limits for a parcel?
There are no strict limits on the maximum weight and size for a parcel. However, if the parcel exceeds standard size or weight, additional oversize or overweight charges may apply. In such cases, we can offer alternative shipping methods like air freight or ocean freight instead of express freight. Feel free to contact us with detailed information about your shipment, and we’ll provide an accurate quote tailored to your needs.
How Can I Verify if My Consignee’s Address is Serviceable for Shipping?
Before you place an order with us, our dedicated team will verify your consignee’s address to ensure seamless service. Rely on our support to confirm all details before we arrange your shipment, guaranteeing a smooth and efficient delivery process.
Who Should Pay for Duties and Taxes?
In most cases, the payment of duties and taxes is the responsibility of the recipient.
Why Is It Necessary to Provide the Weight and Dimensions of My Parcel?
Providing the precise weight and dimensions of your parcel is crucial to ensure speedy delivery. If this information is inaccurate, your shipment may experience delays during transit. Without exact measurements, we cannot offer an accurate quote or calculate the final chargeable weight, making it difficult to recommend the best express freight methods for your needs. Ensuring accurate details allows us to deliver your parcels efficiently and cost-effectively.
Do You Add Charge Weight When Products Are Received?
At KFH, we uphold logistics standards by honestly weighing and measuring each shipment with precision. We are dedicated to fostering long-term collaborations rather than one-time transactions, ensuring dependable and consistent service for our clients. Additionally, you have the option to verify the weight and dimensions of your products upon receipt, allowing you to confirm the chargeable weight and maintain transparency throughout the shipping process.
What Are the Accepted Payment Methods for Your Air Freight Shipping Services?
We offer a range of reliable payment options to accommodate your preferences, including T/T bank transfers, and PayPal. Additionally, you can securely transfer funds using Alipay or WeChat online transfer methods, ensuring a seamless and flexible payment experience.
Can I Obtain Compensation If My Package Is Lost or Damaged During Shipping?
At KFH, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and reliability of your shipments. If your shipment is lost or damaged, we will reimburse you in accordance with our international shipping and return policies. Additionally, you have the option to purchase insurance for your goods, which provides an extra layer of protection. With insurance, you can receive full compensation in the unlikely event of any issues during transit. Rest assured, such occurrences are rare, and we strive to deliver your goods safely and efficiently every time.
What Is the Meaning of AWB in Air Freight?
The Airway Bill (AWB) serves as an essential transport document for air freight shipments. By using the Air Waybill number and flight details, you can easily track your consignment.
What are the key differences between door-to-door and door-to-port shipping services?
Door-to-door shipping means we manage your shipments from the initial pickup at your Chinese supplier's factory all the way to delivery at your specified destination address. In contrast, door-to-port shipping involves handling your shipments from pickup at your Chinese supplier's factory to the destination port, after which you are responsible for collecting your goods at the destination airport.
Should I Obtain Insurance for My Shipments?
Shipping insurance is a crucial factor to consider before completing your purchase. Protect your package to prevent any regrets. It’s affordable. We assist you in securing shipping insurance at significantly lower rates than purchasing it independently.
Let’s collaborate and work together
With KFH, you’ll enjoy a range of benefits for all your shipment needs. Our experienced sales team is ready to assist you and provide unmatched service. Contact us now to get the ideal shipping solution for your shipments from China!
